Commodore Alexander Murray (July 12, 1755 – October 6, 1821) was a naval officer during the American Revolution, the Quasi War with France and the first Barbary war in North Africa. Murray Commanded his first ship at the age of 18.[1][2]
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Born in Chestertown, Maryland, he served as captain in the 1st Maryland Regiment, commanded several privateers, and was commissioned lieutenant in the Continental Navy July 20, 1781, returning to private life in 1785.
Murry fought in the American Revolution and was present at the battles of White Plains, Flatbush and York. He was first appointed a lieutenant in the young American navy, but since there were no other ships available at this time he entered the army. While serving at New York he lost his hearing from a bursting cannon while firing at a British fleet making its way up the North River, i.e.the lower Hudson along the west side of Manhattan.[3]
Upon the organization of the U.S. Navy, Murray was commissioned captain July 1, 1798.
He commanded Montezuma, Insurgente, and Constellation during the Quasi-War with France.
From 1801-1803 during the First Barbary War he commanded the Constellation against the Barbary pirates of north Africa, serving with Thomas Macdonough in the Mediterranean, giving the young officer lessons on how to develop as a naval officer. He took part in the blockade at Tripoli harbor.[4][5]
Murry commanded the Adams in home waters in 1805.
From 1808 until his death October 6, 1821, Commodore Murray was superintendent of gunboats at Philadelphia, and, from July 8, 1813, also was first commandant of the Philadelphia Navy Yard.[6]