Joseph S. Skerrett

United States Navy rear admiral

What is Joseph S. Skerrett known for?

Born on January 18, 1833, in Chillicothe, Ohio, Joseph Salathiel Skerrett, known as "Sailor Joe", is best recognized for his remarkable naval career as a Rear Admiral in the United States Navy. Not only did he serve the nation from 1848 until 1894, but he also commanded several ships, including the USS Portsmouth, USS Macedonian, USS Saratoga, and USS Richmond.

His early life in Chillicothe was made special by his schoolmate and lifelong friend Lucy Webb, who later became the First Lady of the United States as the wife of President Rutherford B. Hayes.

Skerrett was appointed as a midshipman on October 12, 1848, and subsequently spent his years mastering the seas and navigating diverse geopolitical terrains. He served in the Mediterranean Squadron aboard the USS Independence from 1848 to 1852 and off Africa's west coast aboard the USS Marion from 1852 to 1854. His dedication at sea and academic prowess saw him graduate as the top of his class from the United States Naval Academy in 1853.

He etched his name in history during the African Slave Trade Patrol, where he participated in one of the most successful operations leading to the seizure of the slave ship Nightingale, thereby freeing 961 individuals. Skerrett also served in the American Civil War and played a significant role in the history of the Kingdom of Hawaii. His other noteworthy commands include the Pacific Squadron and Asiatic Squadron.

Revered as the best navigator of his time in the U.S. Navy, Skerrett's contributions were instrumental in shaping America's maritime power and influence. He passed away on January 1, 1897, and was respected with a burial in the Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia.