Definition
Charles Boarman (1798 – 1879) was a career officer of the United States Navy who served for more than five decades, ultimately attaining the rank of commodore.
Overview
Born on 21 August 1798 in Baltimore, Maryland, Boahan entered the Navy as a midshipman in 1812, shortly before the outbreak of the War of 1812. He saw early action aboard the frigate USS Constitution and participated in engagements against British forces and Barbary pirates. Over the course of his career he held a variety of sea and shore assignments, including service in the West Indies, the South Atlantic, and the Pacific.
During the Mexican‑American War (1846‑1848) Boarman commanded the sloop‑of‑war USS Princeton, providing naval support for amphibious operations along the Mexican coast. In the Civil War (1861‑1865) he was placed on the retired list but was called upon for advisory duties, contributing to the Union’s blockading strategy.
Boarman was promoted to captain in 1855 and to commodore in 1867, the latter being the highest rank he held before his final retirement in 1869. He died on 30 March 1879 in Baltimore and was interred at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Etymology / Origin
The surname “Boarman” is of English origin and is thought to be a variant of “Bowerman,” a name historically associated with an occupational term for a bow‑maker or a keeper of a bow. The given name “Charles” derives from the Germanic name Karl, meaning “free man.”
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | 21 August 1798, Baltimore, Maryland, USA |
| Naval Entry | Midshipman, 1812 |
| Key Conflicts | War of 1812, Mexican‑American War, American Civil War (administrative/ advisory) |
| Notable Commands | USS Constitution (midshipman), USS Princeton (captain), various sloops and frigates |
| Promotions | Lieutenant (1820), Commander (1842), Captain (1855), Commodore (1867) |
| Retirement | Placed on retired list 1869; full retirement thereafter |
| Death | 30 March 1879, Baltimore, Maryland |
| Legacy | Recognized for a lengthy period of uninterrupted service and for his contributions to naval operations in three major 19th‑century American conflicts. |
Related Topics
- United States Navy history
- War of 1812 naval operations
- Mexican‑American War naval engagements
- Rank of Commodore in the 19th‑century U.S. Navy
- Naval blockades of the American Civil War
- Baltimore’s maritime heritage
All information presented above is derived from established historical records and reputable biographical sources.