g the Revolutionary War, which won the Independence of
our Country, and also in the War with France, which maintained the
integrity of the new Nation and the protection of its commerce. In both
wars he bore a heroic part. At all times his services were useful and
brilliant.

"Captain John Barry may justly be considered the Father of our Navy,"
wrote Mr. Dennie in _The Portfolio_, July 1813, in giving the first
biographical sketch of this distinguished naval officer. "The utility of
whose services and the splendor of whose exploits entitle him to the
foremost rank among our naval heroes."

Allen's _Biographical Dictionary_, published in 1809, declared he "was a
patriot of integrity and unquestioned bravery."

Frost's _Naval Biography_ states: "Few commanders were employed in a
greater variety of services or met the enemy under greater
disadvantages," and yet he did not fail to acquit himself of his duty in
a manner becoming a skillful seaman and a brave warrior.

[Illustration: THE BARONY OF FORTH]

"His public services were not limited to any customary rule of
professional duty, but without regard to labor, danger or excuses, his
devotion to his Country kept him constantly engaged in acts of public
utility. The regard and admiration of General Washington, which he
possessed in an eminent degree, were among the most eminent fruits of
his patriotic career."

Judson's _Sages and Heroes of the Revolution_ says: "Barry was noble in
spirit, humane in discipline, discreet and fearless in battle, urbane
in his manners, a splendid officer, a good citizen, a devoted Christian
and a true Patriot."

Many other quotations might be cited to show the high esteem in which
Commodore John Barry was held as well also the importance of his
services to our Country.

A brief narration of his career will set forth the character and worth
of these services as well as afford proof of the valor and fidelity of
this most successful naval officer.

[Illustration: BALLYSAMPSON]

John Barry was born in 1745 in the townland of Ballysampson. He lived
his boyhood in the townland of Roostoonstown, both in the parish of
Tacumshin, Barony of Forth, Province of Leinster in Ireland. The parish
covers three thousand acres. It is situated between two townland-locked
gulfs with very narrow openings--Lake Tacumshin and Lady's Island Lake.
Possibly these lakes gave young Barry the inspiration for the sea, and
upon both he in youth, we may be sure, o