WILLIAM R. THOMAS, PASSED MIDN, USN
William Thomas '47
Loss
William died of yellow fever aboard a ship near Vera Cruz, Mexico, on November 10, 1847 during the Mexican-American War.
Other Information
He was appointed a midshipman in 1841 and was born in North Carolina.
From researcher Kathy Franz:
William started his naval career in 1842 on the Cyane. He sailed on her several years, and then reported in 1846 to the store ship Southampton. In 1847 he graduated from the Naval Academy and wrote in August that he was anxious to visit his relatives in South Carolina. On September 30, he reported to Captain William K. Latimer at Pensacola for transport to Vera Cruz. He along with several others boarded the Mississippi commanded by Matthew Perry. In October, the ship was ordered to Gosport for repairs and then returned to Pensacola. They were to leave for Vera Cruz on October 15. The muster roll for October 1847 included: Theodore Barrett and William’s classmates James S. Thornton #100, Nathaniel T. West #127, William H. Fauntleroy #180, and Joseph Fry #148. By November 10, Perry wrote that William along with Lieutenant Theodore Barrett and 3rd assistant engineer Charles Mapes had all died from yellow fever which they probably contracted at Pensacola before sailing.
Letter by Alexander Slidell Mackenzie, Nov. 10, 1847, 11:30 a.m., To commander M. C. Perry:
I have the honor of informing you this morning that Passed Midshipman William R. Thomas, attacked by fever on Saturday last, and who appeared to be doing well up to Tuesday morning had become much worse yesterday, and that but little hope remained of his recovery. It’s now my painful duty to inform you that he is dead.
His loss is sensibly felt in the Ship, both on account of his value as an officer, and the excellent and amiable qualities which adorned his character. As an officer, he was zealous, active, and capable. Formerly in charge of the Berth Deck, and latterly as a watch officer, he performed his duties in a way to win the approbation of his superiors, whilst by his engaging manners, and the simplicity and directness of his character, he secured the love of his messmates and of the crew. Had his life been prolonged he had the fairest prospect of future usefulness and distinction.
His remains will be buried this afternoon at 4 o’clock, in Sacrificios, with appropriate honors.
He was 20 years old. Date of death from Register of Alumni and the 1848 "Register of Commissioned and Warrant Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps."
Memorial Hall Error
Illness is not a criteria for inclusion in Memorial Hall.
William is one of 32 members of the Class of 1847 on Virtual Memorial Hall.
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