Richard Russell Waldron facts for kids
Richard Russell Waldron was a purser (someone who manages money and supplies) and a special agent during the Wilkes Expedition. He sailed with his younger brother, Thomas Westbrook Waldron (consul). Several places around the world were named after him or his brother. After the expedition, Waldron became quite popular and had some influence in Washington, D.C.
Quick facts for kids
Richard Russell Waldron
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The ship USS Vincennes in the Antarctic. Waldron sailed on this ship during the Wilkes Expedition.
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| Born | March 28, 1803 |
| Died | October 30, 1846 (aged 43) |
| Occupation | Purser, U.S. Navy |
| Parent(s) | Daniel Waldron and Olive Sheafe |
Contents
Early Life and Family
Richard Russell Waldron was born on March 28, 1803. He was the oldest son of Daniel Waldron and Olive Huske Sheafe. When he was a teenager, his family faced tough times. His father went bankrupt in 1819. The family also lost a lot of land in Dover, New Hampshire, that they had owned since 1635. His father passed away in 1821.
Adventures with the Wilkes Expedition
Waldron was an important member of the Wilkes Expedition. This was a big journey by the United States Navy to explore the Pacific Ocean and Antarctica.
Exploring Antarctica and Fiji
In 1840, the Wilkes Expedition visited Antarctica. A place called Cape Waldron was named after him there. In July 1840, the expedition also named a small island in Fiji after Waldron. This island is also known as Namotu Island.
Charting the Pacific Northwest
The expedition also mapped a large part of the west coast of what is now Washington state. This included the San Juan Islands. In May 1841, one of these islands was named Waldron Island.
Volcano Exploration in Hawaii
The expedition also traveled to Hawaii. There, Purser R. R. Waldron and another explorer, Joseph Drayton, explored inside the Kilauea Caldera. This is a large volcanic crater located in what is now Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. They walked on the hot surface of the volcano until lava started to ooze out very close to them! Today, a popular spot called Waldron Ledge overlooks the caldera. It's a short hike from the park's visitor center.
Treaty in Sulu
In 1842, Waldron also saw a treaty being signed. This was an agreement between the United States, represented by Charles Wilkes, and the Sultan of Sulu.
Influence in Washington, D.C.
After the Wilkes Expedition finished, many of the officers became very popular in Washington, D.C.. Richard R. Waldron was one of the most admired sailors. He was known for his travels and connections. For example, he was scheduled to have dinner with the Secretary of State, Daniel Webster, in December 1842.
Helping Hawaiian Delegates
In December 1842, Waldron helped a group of delegates from the Kingdom of Hawaii. These delegates were trying to get support for Hawaii from the United States government. Waldron and Charles Wilkes had traveled across the Pacific Ocean. They understood how important the Hawaiian Islands were strategically. Their knowledge and connections helped the Hawaiian delegates meet with important officials, including Secretary Daniel Webster and even President John Tyler.
Later Life and Death
Richard Russell Waldron died on October 30, 1846. He was 43 years old and never married. His death happened four years after the Wilkes Expedition ended.
Places Named After Him
Several places around the world are named in honor of Richard Russell Waldron:
- Cape Waldron in Antarctica
- Waldron Island in Fiji (also known as Namotu Island)
- Waldron Island in Washington state
- Waldron Ledge overlooking the Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii
