Great Encouragement For Seamen

Poster text

ALL GENTLEMEN SEAMEN and capable LANDSMEN aspiring to distinguish themselves in the GLORIOUS CAUSE of their Country and seek fortune, a golden opportunity is now available aboard the Ship RANGER, armed with Twenty Guns (for France), presently anchored in Portsmouth, New-Hampshire. The vessel is under the command of JOHN PAUL JONES Esq. Those interested are invited to visit the ship’s Rendezvous in Portsmouth or Commodore Maxley’s Sign in Salem, where they will be warmly welcomed and generously supported. The Ship Ranger, acclaimed as one of the finest Cruisers in America by all who have seen her, is designed for exceptional speed and weather resilience.

Gentlemen Volunteers desiring a pleasant Voyage during this delightful Season may find every courtesy by joining the Ship Ranger. Aboard, they can expect the utmost civility and, as further encouragement, can anticipate rewards commensurate with their merit at the earliest opportunity.

Reasonable Traveling Expenses will be reimbursed, and Advance-Money will be provided upon their appearance on board.

In CONGRESS, March 29, 1777.

Resolved, THAT the Marine Committee is authorized to advance to every able Seaman entering the Continental Service a Sum not exceeding FORTY DOLLARS, and to every ordinary Seaman or Landsman, a Sum not exceeding TWENTY DOLLARS, to be deducted from their future Prize-Money.

By Order of Congress, JOHN HANCOCK, President.

DANVERS; Printed by E. Russell, at the House late the Bell-Tavern.

Following Article Printed in The Freeman’s Journal, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, July 26, 1777.

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR SEAMEN

The seamen of these States have been disheartened from joining the navy, feeling unfairly treated concerning prize money and the regular payment of wages. To address these concerns, I personally assure every person entering my service of punctual and regular wage payments. With the approval of officers and men, I will appoint an agent for the prizes, ensuring they are sold to the best advantage and payments are made justly and promptly.

Every navy seaman is entitled to eight dollars per month wages with an advance of forty dollars upon entry. Marines or landsmen receive six dollars and two-thirds per month wages with a twenty-dollar advance at entry. Any private individual losing a limb or disabled in engagement is eligible for two hundred dollars in smart money; if killed, his wife or family will receive it. Those disabled in engagement receive half pay for life or an allowance proportionate to their injury. Payment extends to individuals in captivity if they return to service promptly. Captors receive half of all merchant ships and effects taken by sea or land without resistance, and the entirety of warships and privateers authorized by the British Majesty against these States. A bounty of twenty dollars for every mounted carriage gun and eight dollars per head for every man on board and belonging to such prizes is provided. Ten shares are set aside for the most deserving, with various advantages based on Congress resolutions. Individuals with abilities will be promoted in line with their diligence and merit; privateers offer unparalleled encouragement.

The Continental Ship of war Ranger, under my command in Portsmouth, is ready for sea. Interested persons are encouraged to apply on board or at the ship’s rendezvous for more information.

Portsmouth, July 26, 1777. John Paul Jones