Orders, Decorations and Medals

Naval General Service 1793-1840, 1 clasp, The Potomac 17 Aug. 1814 (Thos. Sonnerat, Clerk) edge bruise, otherwise nearly extremely fine £3000-3500

Ex Whalley Collection 1887.

Thomas Sonnerat, Clerk, H.M.S. Devastation (bomb-vessel), accompanied the British squadron up the river Potomac, without the aid of pilots, on 17 August 1814. They bombarded the fort of Washington, the principal defence of Alexandria Town, blew up its magazine and took possession of it the following day, the garrison evacuated and the town surrendered. After destroying the fort and a number of batteries, the squadron began its return journey together with 21 prizes deeply laden with merchandise. The Americans, now fully aware of the raiding force, erected batteries on all commanding positions and lined the river banks with riflemen and militia. After a punishing dash down the river, hampered along the way by enemy gun-boats and fire vessels, the British squadron broke out of the Potomac on 9 September. No ships of a similar draught, with their guns and stores on board, had attempted to navigate the river before.

Approximately 108 clasps issued for this American action.