Commodore Barry knows the way

The “Father of the American Navy,” Commodore John Barry was born in Tacumshane, County Wexford, Ireland, but became an adopted son of Philadelphia and a hero of the American Revolution. Even though he’s also got a bridge here in Philly (connecting the most ambitious traveler to Bridgeport, NJ) and a statue in front (yes, that’s the front) of Independence Hall, very few people know anything about John Barry.

Born the son of a poor Irish farmer, Barry entered the Royal Navy as a cabin boy; by the age of 30 Barry was a highly regarded officer, and was made a Captain in the Continental Navy in 1775. He was the first to capture a British war vessel on the high seas, and captured a total of 20 during his career. Among his other heroic deeds, he quelled three mutinies (one wonders about his demeanor as a captain if he faced three mutinies, but hey…), fought as a Marine at the Battles of Trenton and Princeton, and fought the last naval battle of the Revolution aboard the frigate Alliance in 1783.

Barry died in Philadelphia in 1803 and was interred behind Old St. Mary’s Church. His statue stands in front of Independence Hall, a centerpiece of Independence Square. Descriptions of the statue say that he is pointing toward battle (being that he’s in full regalia), but he also happens to be pointing toward the Philadelphia Navy Yard, which became a Naval Shipyard in 1801, two years prior to Barry’s death. Then again, he might be directing visitors away from Independence Hall, aiding the bicycle barriers and armed Park Rangers in saying, “you are not welcome here.”

I like to think he’s giving New Jersey a piece of his mind.

Sculptor: Samuel Murray
Dedicated: 1907
Location: Independence Square, in front (south) of Independence Hall