John Marston (sailor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Marston
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| Born | June 12, 1795 Boston, Massachusetts |
| Died | April 17, 1885 (aged 89) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
 United States NavyUnion Navy |
| Years of service | 1813–1881 |
| Rank |  Commodore |
| Commands held | USS Roanoke (1855) |
| Battles/wars | War of 1812 Mexican–American War American Civil War |
John Marston (born June 12, 1795 – died April 7, 1885) was an important officer in the United States Navy. He served for many years, taking part in major conflicts like the War of 1812 and the American Civil War.
Contents
John Marston started his naval career during the War of 1812. He was a messenger, carrying important news. He was the first to tell former President John Adams that Commander Isaac Hull had captured the British ship HMS Guerriere. Because of this, he was made a midshipman on April 15, 1813.
Marston continued to serve after the war. He was even aboard the famous ship USS Constitution when the famous poet Lord Byron visited it! In 1825, Marston became a lieutenant. He was on USS Brandywine when it took Marquis de Lafayette back to France. From 1827 to 1829, and again in 1833 and 1834, Marston worked in the Pacific Ocean.
In 1840, he was assigned to the frigate USS United States. The next year, he was promoted to commander. By 1850, he was in charge of USS Yorktown off the coast of Africa. He also managed the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard from 1853 to 1855. After this, he was promoted to captain.
The Civil War and Hampton Roads
Even though he was officially retired in December 1861, Marston was still needed. He was assigned to USS Cumberland for a year. On July 16, 1862, he became a commodore.
Commodore Marston was in command of the frigate USS Roanoke during the famous Battle of Hampton Roads. This battle was very important because it was the first time ironclad warships fought each other. During this battle, the Confederate ironclad CSS Virginia attacked and destroyed two Union ships, USS Congress and USS Cumberland.
Later Years and Retirement
After the Civil War, Marston continued to serve. He was promoted to rear admiral in March 1881. For several years, he was in charge of important navy-yards in Portsmouth and Philadelphia. He also managed the naval station at Key West in 1867.
Marston also worked as a lighthouse inspector from 1863 to 1866. Throughout his long career, he sailed under many famous naval leaders. Before he finally retired, he had spent half a century in active service!
Family Life
John Marston was a member of the Protestant Episcopal church. His oldest son, Matthew R. Marston, joined the army. Matthew was recognized for his bravery during the siege of Vicksburg, a major event in the Civil War.
John Marston passed away on April 17, 1885, after a long and distinguished life.
