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April 23, 1802 Robert Smith Signed Statement of the First Costs of the Six Official United States Navy Yards Totaling $135,846.92

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ROBERT SMITH (1757-1842). 2nd United States Secretary of the Navy (1801-1809), and through Thomas Jefferson's Presidency; he served as the 6th Secretary of State under President James Madison from 1809 to 1811.

April 23, 1802-Dated Federal Period, Manuscript Document Signed, "R't Smith" as Secretary of the Navy, 1 page, measuring 7-7/8" x 9-3/4", Navy Department, Choice Very Fine. There is a very small hole near top center, tipped at its left margin edge to slightly larger heavy stock page, measuring 8.5" x 11". Boldly written in dark brown ink which is easily readable and clear on fresh clean laid period paper. This important early federal Naval Document is headed:

"Statement of the first cost of the Navy Yards belonging to the United States."

Here, Robert Smith lists the dates of purchases, and total costs for each of the following major Navy Yards: Portsmouth, NH; Charleston, Massachusetts, New York, Philadelphia, Gosport, near Norfolk Virginia and Washington City. The cost totaling... $135,846.92 Dollars. Docket on the blank final page reads: “Cost of Navy Yards”.
In 1802, the United States Navy had several navy yards (shipyards) that played a crucial role in the construction, repair, and maintenance of naval vessels. During that time, the primary navy yards included:

Gosport Navy Yard (Norfolk Naval Shipyard): Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Gosport Navy Yard was one of the oldest and largest shipyards in the United States. It played a significant role in the construction and repair of naval vessels.

Charlestown Navy Yard (Boston Naval Shipyard): Situated in Charlestown, Massachusetts, this navy yard was responsible for shipbuilding and repair. It operated for many years before eventually closing in the 1970s.

New York Navy Yard (Brooklyn Navy Yard): Located in Brooklyn, New York, this navy yard had a long history and contributed to the construction and maintenance of naval ships.

Philadelphia Navy Yard: Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this navy yard played a crucial role in naval shipbuilding and repair.

Portsmouth Navy Yard: Situated in Kittery, Maine, across the river from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this navy yard has a long history and continues to be an active naval shipyard.

It's important to note that the status and significance of these navy yards have evolved over time, with some no longer in operation or repurposed for different uses. The mentioned navy yards, however, were among the key facilities supporting the United States Navy's maritime activities in the early 19th century.
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