Who was Richard Russell Waldron and what was his primary role during the significant Wilkes Expedition?

Richard Russell Waldron was a purser and a special agent for the U.S. Navy who participated in the Wilkes Expedition. A purser was historically responsible for managing the ship's finances, provisions, and crew's pay.

When was Richard Russell Waldron born, and who were his parents?

Richard Russell Waldron was born on March 28, 1803. His parents were Daniel Waldron and Olive Huske Sheafe.

What significant financial and land-related challenges did Richard Russell Waldron's family face during his youth?

During Richard Russell Waldron's youth, his family experienced a bankruptcy in 1819, the loss of substantial landholdings that had been in the family since 1635, and the death of his father in 1821.

What ancestral documents did Richard Russell Waldron possess, and from whom did they originate?

By February 1827, Richard Russell Waldron possessed the papers of his ancestor Richard Waldron, who began acquiring landholdings in Dover, New Hampshire, in 1635.

What was the primary objective of the Wilkes Expedition, and when did Richard Russell Waldron's contingent visit Antarctica?

The Wilkes Expedition was an extensive United States exploring expedition. Richard Russell Waldron was a member of this expedition when it visited Antarctica in 1840.

What geographical feature in Antarctica was named in honor of Richard Russell Waldron?

Cape Waldron, located in Antarctica, was named after Richard Russell Waldron.

What island in Fiji was named after Richard Russell Waldron during the Wilkes Expedition, and what is its more common name?

In July 1840, the Wilkes Expedition named a small Fijian island after Richard Russell Waldron. This island is also frequently referred to by its dual name, Namotu Island.

Which island in the San Juan Islands archipelago was named after Richard Russell Waldron?

Waldron Island, located in the San Juan Islands of present-day Washington State, was named after Richard Russell Waldron. The expedition charted much of the west coast of Washington state during its exploration.

Describe Richard Russell Waldron's experience within Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii.

While the Wilkes Expedition was in Hawaii, Purser R. R. Waldron, along with Joseph Drayton, ventured inside Kilauea Caldera. They walked on the dome's hot surface until lava began to ooze through cracks that formed within fifteen feet of them.

What geographical feature in Hawaii is named after Richard Russell Waldron, and where is it located?

Waldron Ledge, which overlooks the Kilauea Caldera from the eastern rim, is named after Richard Russell Waldron. It is a popular hiking spot within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

What significant treaty did Richard Russell Waldron witness being signed in 1842?

In 1842, Richard Russell Waldron witnessed a treaty being signed between the United States, represented by Charles Wilkes, and the Sultan of Sulu.

How was Richard Russell Waldron perceived in Washington, D.C. society following the conclusion of the Wilkes Expedition?

Following the Wilkes Expedition, Richard Russell Waldron, along with other officers, enjoyed considerable popularity and influence in Washington, D.C. society, being widely celebrated.

With whom was Richard Russell Waldron scheduled to dine in Washington, D.C. on December 24, 1842?

On December 24, 1842, Richard Russell Waldron was scheduled to dine with Daniel Webster, who was the Secretary of State at the time, at his home.

In what way did Richard Russell Waldron provide assistance to the delegation from the Kingdom of Hawaii in December 1842?

In December 1842, Richard Russell Waldron, described as an experienced naval officer who had traversed the Pacific, provided encouragement and support to the delegation from the Kingdom of Hawaii, which included Timoteo Haalilio and William Richards. This assistance helped them secure meetings with high-ranking U.S. officials.

What was Richard Russell Waldron's connection to Julia Gardiner, who later became President Tyler's wife?

Before Julia Gardiner married President John Tyler, she occasionally went dancing with naval officer Richard R. Waldron, whom she considered immature.

What historical inaccuracy regarding Richard Russell Waldron's age and rank has been noted by historians?

Historian Edward Crapol, and subsequently Lyle Emerson Nelson, incorrectly characterized the then 39-year-old Richard Russell Waldron as a young 23-year-old midshipman in 1842. It remains unclear if Waldron appeared younger than his age or if his younger brother was misidentified.

When and under what circumstances did Richard Russell Waldron die?

Richard Russell Waldron died unmarried on October 30, 1846, four years after the conclusion of the Wilkes Expedition.

Besides Cape Waldron in Antarctica and Waldron Island in Fiji, what other geographical locations are named after Richard Russell Waldron?

Besides Cape Waldron in Antarctica and a Waldron Island in Fiji, a Waldron Island in Washington state and Waldron Ledge overlooking the Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii are also named after him.

What is the significance of the USS Vincennes in relation to Richard Russell Waldron?

The sloop USS Vincennes was the ship on which Richard Russell Waldron served as Purser during the Wilkes Expedition. The provided image depicts this ship in the Antarctic.

What was Richard Russell Waldron's occupation within the U.S. Navy?

Richard Russell Waldron served as a Purser in the U.S. Navy. A purser was responsible for the financial and supply management of a ship.

What was the approximate age of Richard Russell Waldron when he died?

Richard Russell Waldron died on October 30, 1846, at the age of 43, having been born on March 28, 1803.

What connection does Richard Russell Waldron have to the history of Dover, New Hampshire?

Richard Russell Waldron's family had possessed landholdings in Dover, New Hampshire, continuously since his ancestor, Richard Waldron, began acquiring them in 1635. His family faced financial difficulties leading to the loss of these holdings.

What role did Richard Russell Waldron's family play in the Massachusetts Historical Society?

Richard Russell Waldron entrusted Father Sebastien Rale's strongbox, a family heirloom, to the Massachusetts Historical Society for safekeeping in September 1845.

What was the nature of the island named Waldron Island in Fiji, and what was its dual designation?

The island named Waldron Island in Fiji by the Wilkes Expedition in 1840 is a small island that may be more often referred to by its dual name, Namotu Island.

What was the context for naming Waldron Island in Washington state?

Waldron Island in Washington state was named by the Wilkes Expedition in May 1841, during their charting of the west coast of the then-disputed territory of Washington state, including the San Juan Islands.

What is the potential ambiguity surrounding the naming of Waldron Island in Washington state?

There is a possibility that the Waldron Island in Washington state was intended for Thomas W. Waldron, the Captain's Clerk of the brig Porpoise, rather than Richard Russell Waldron, the Purser of the Vincennes. However, it is also possible that two individuals named Waldron were honored.

What specific detail is mentioned about the naming of Cape Waldron in Antarctica?

Cape Waldron in Antarctica was named after Richard Russell Waldron, signifying his participation in the Wilkes Expedition's exploration of the continent.

What was Richard Russell Waldron's relationship to Thomas Westbrook Waldron?

Thomas Westbrook Waldron, who served as a consul, was the younger brother of Richard Russell Waldron.

What was the significance of Richard Russell Waldron's presence during the treaty signing with the Sultan of Sulu?

Richard Russell Waldron's presence as a member of the Wilkes Expedition was noted during the signing of a treaty between the United States, represented by Charles Wilkes, and the Sultan of Sulu in 1842.

How did Richard Russell Waldron's experience in the Pacific influence his interactions in Washington D.C.?

Richard Russell Waldron's extensive travels across the Pacific during the Wilkes Expedition provided him with valuable knowledge and experience. This understanding of the region, particularly the strategic importance of the Hawaiian Islands, allowed him to effectively assist the Hawaiian delegation in their diplomatic efforts in Washington D.C.

What historical source incorrectly identifies Richard Russell Waldron's age and rank in 1842?

Historian Edward Crapol incorrectly identified Richard Russell Waldron as a 23-year-old midshipman in 1842, a characterization that Lyle Emerson Nelson also followed. The text notes that Waldron was actually 39 at the time.

What is the primary source of information regarding Richard Russell Waldron's role in the Wilkes Expedition and subsequent life?

The primary source of information appears to be historical records and publications related to the Wilkes Expedition, such as the Narrative of the United States exploring expedition by Charles Wilkes, and genealogical works like Historical Memoranda Concerning Persons and Places in Old Dover, New Hampshire and Genealogy of the Cutts family in America.

What does the image caption tell us about the USS Vincennes?

The image caption indicates that the USS Vincennes was a sloop that sailed in the Antarctic during the Wilkes Expedition, and it was the ship on which Richard Russell Waldron served as Purser.

What was the historical context for the Wilkes Expedition's exploration of the Washington state coast?

The Wilkes Expedition charted much of the west coast of what was then the disputed territory of Washington state, including areas like the San Juan Islands.

What does the text suggest about the importance of the Wilkes Expedition's findings?

The text suggests the expedition's findings were significant, as they led to the naming of geographical landmarks across various locations like Antarctica, Fiji, Washington state, and Hawaii, and provided valuable geographical knowledge, such as charting the Washington coast.

What was the nature of Richard Russell Waldron's involvement with the Hawaiian delegation's diplomatic efforts?

Richard Russell Waldron provided crucial encouragement and support to the Hawaiian delegation, leveraging his experience from Pacific travels to help them navigate meetings with high-ranking U.S. officials like Secretary of State Daniel Webster and President John Tyler.

What specific detail is provided about the historical record concerning Richard Russell Waldron's age during his time in Washington D.C.?

The text highlights a discrepancy where historians Edward Crapol and Lyle Emerson Nelson incorrectly stated Richard Russell Waldron was 23 years old in 1842, when he was actually 39.

What role did Richard Russell Waldron play in relation to the Massachusetts Historical Society?

Richard Russell Waldron entrusted a significant family heirloom, Father Sebastien Rale's strongbox, to the Massachusetts Historical Society for safekeeping in 1845.

What does the text suggest about the legacy of Richard Russell Waldron?

The text suggests Richard Russell Waldron left a legacy marked by his participation in a major U.S. exploration, his service as a naval officer, and the geographical landmarks named in his honor across different parts of the world.

What was the relationship between Richard Russell Waldron and his ancestor Richard Waldron?

Richard Russell Waldron was a descendant of Richard Waldron, who was the ancestor that began acquiring landholdings in Dover, New Hampshire, in 1635. Richard Russell Waldron possessed his ancestor's papers.

What specific event occurred within Kilauea Caldera involving Richard Russell Waldron?

Richard Russell Waldron, along with Joseph Drayton, walked on the hot surface of Kilauea Caldera until lava began to ooze through cracks within fifteen feet of them.

What was Richard Russell Waldron's occupation title in the U.S. Navy?

Richard Russell Waldron held the occupation title of Purser in the U.S. Navy.

What historical events impacted Richard Russell Waldron's family finances and land ownership during his youth?

During Richard Russell Waldron's youth, his family faced bankruptcy in 1819 and lost substantial landholdings that had been continuously possessed since 1635.

What is the significance of the Massachusetts Historical Society in relation to Richard Russell Waldron?

Richard Russell Waldron entrusted a family heirloom, Father Sebastien Rale's strongbox, to the Massachusetts Historical Society for safekeeping in 1845, indicating a connection to historical preservation.

What was the purpose of the Wilkes Expedition's charting of the Washington state coast?

The Wilkes Expedition charted much of the west coast of the then-disputed Washington state, including areas like the San Juan Islands, contributing to geographical knowledge of the region.

How did Richard Russell Waldron's participation in the Wilkes Expedition contribute to his recognition?

Richard Russell Waldron's participation in the Wilkes Expedition led to geographical landmarks in Antarctica, Fiji, Washington state, and Hawaii being named in his honor, serving as a lasting recognition of his involvement.

What role did Richard Russell Waldron play in the diplomatic efforts concerning the Kingdom of Hawaii?

Richard Russell Waldron provided crucial support and encouragement to the Hawaiian delegation, using his Pacific experience to facilitate their meetings with key U.S. officials like Secretary of State Daniel Webster and President John Tyler.

What specific detail is mentioned about Richard Russell Waldron's personal life regarding his marital status?

The text explicitly states that Richard Russell Waldron died unmarried on October 30, 1846.

What potential confusion exists regarding the naming of Waldron Island in Washington state?

There is a possibility that Waldron Island in Washington state was named after Richard Russell Waldron's younger brother, Thomas W. Waldron, who served as Captain's Clerk on another expedition vessel, rather than solely after Richard himself.

What was Richard Russell Waldron's connection to Daniel Webster?

Richard Russell Waldron was scheduled to dine with Daniel Webster, the Secretary of State at the time, on December 24, 1842, indicating a level of social and professional connection in Washington D.C.

Richard Russell Waldron Wiki: Navigating the Archives: The Richard Russell Waldron Expeditionary Chronicle

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Overview

Who Was Richard Russell Waldron?

Richard Russell Waldron (March 28, 1803 – October 30, 1846) was a distinguished American naval officer, serving as a Purser and a "special agent" within the United States Navy. His career is most notably associated with his significant participation in the pivotal Wilkes Expedition of 1838–1842, a landmark scientific and exploratory endeavor.

His Significance

Waldron's role as Purser aboard the USS Vincennes placed him at the heart of the Wilkes Expedition's logistical and administrative operations. His involvement contributed to the charting of vast, previously unmapped territories across the Pacific and Antarctic regions. Beyond his naval duties, Waldron navigated the influential circles of Washington D.C. society following the expedition, demonstrating a multifaceted career that extended into diplomatic and social spheres.

Youth and Heritage

Early Life and Family

Born on March 28, 1803, Richard Russell Waldron was the eldest son of Daniel Waldron and Olive Huske Sheafe. His formative years were marked by significant familial and financial challenges. He experienced his father's bankruptcy in 1819 and the subsequent loss of substantial family landholdings, which had been in continuous possession since his ancestor, Richard Waldron, began acquiring property in Dover, New Hampshire, in 1635. His father's death in 1821 further shaped his early life.

Ancestral Roots

By February 1827, Waldron was residing in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. During this period, he came into possession of important historical documents belonging to his ancestor, Richard Waldron (Secretary). This connection to his family's long history in colonial America provided him with a unique perspective on heritage and legacy.

Further demonstrating his connection to family history and artifacts, in September 1845, Waldron entrusted Father Sebastien Rale's strongbox, another significant family heirloom, to the Massachusetts Historical Society for safekeeping. This act underscores his role as a custodian of historical items, reflecting a deep respect for his lineage.

The Wilkes Expedition

A Monumental Undertaking

Waldron served as a Purser and special agent aboard the USS Vincennes, a key vessel in the United States Exploring Expedition (commonly known as the Wilkes Expedition) from 1838 to 1842. This ambitious mission aimed to explore the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Ocean, conduct scientific research, and assert American presence in distant regions.

Antarctic Discoveries

During the expedition's significant foray into the Antarctic region in 1840, Waldron was part of the crew that made crucial observations and charted coastlines. In recognition of his participation and role, a geographical feature was named in his honor: Cape Waldron, located on the Antarctic continent.

Pacific Charting

The expedition's extensive travels through the Pacific brought Waldron to numerous islands and coastlines. In July 1840, a small Fijian island was named after him, now often referred to by its dual name, Namotu Island. Later, in May 1841, while charting the coast of present-day Washington State, one of the San Juan Islands was designated Waldron Island in his honor.

Hawaiian Ventures

Waldron's expeditionary duties also took him to the Hawaiian Islands. Notably, he ventured with Joseph Drayton inside the Kilauea Caldera on the island of Hawaii. Their exploration involved walking on the hot surface of the dome until lava emerged from cracks nearby. This daring exploration led to the naming of Waldron Ledge, a viewpoint overlooking the caldera, which remains a popular hiking destination within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The expedition's narrative indicates that personnel from the Vincennes, including Purser Richard Russell Waldron, were involved in the exploration of Mauna Loa. The phrase "Messr's Waldron and Drayton" venturing into the crater suggests a joint effort, highlighting the scientific curiosity and adventurous spirit of the expedition members.

Diplomatic Engagements

In 1842, Waldron was present during a significant diplomatic event: the witnessing of a treaty between the United States, represented by Charles Wilkes, and the Sultan of Sulu. This engagement placed Waldron at the intersection of exploration, naval power, and international relations during a critical period of American expansion.

Post-Expedition Influence

Washington Society

Upon the conclusion of the arduous Wilkes Expedition, several officers, including Richard Russell Waldron, found themselves celebrated figures in Washington D.C. society. Waldron, in particular, was noted for his popularity and influence, becoming a sought-after guest in prominent circles.

Notable Connections

Waldron's standing allowed him access to influential figures. Historical accounts mention him dining with Secretary of State Daniel Webster in December 1842. Furthermore, he played a role in assisting the delegation from the Kingdom of Hawaii, providing encouragement and support based on his extensive Pacific experience. His connections also extended to the political sphere, with a brief mention of his association with Julia Gardiner, who later became President John Tyler's second wife.

It is noteworthy that some historical accounts have presented Waldron's age or rank inaccurately. For instance, historian Edward Crapol, followed by Lyle Emerson Nelson, characterized the then 39-year-old Waldron as a young 23-year-old midshipman in 1842. It remains unclear whether this was due to Waldron appearing younger than his age or a misidentification with his younger brother, Thomas Westbrook Waldron.

Enduring Landmarks

Geographical Honors

Richard Russell Waldron's contributions to exploration are immortalized through several geographical features named in his honor. These landmarks serve as enduring testaments to his role in charting the unknown during the 19th century.

Cape Waldron: Located in Antarctica, marking a significant point on the continent's coast.
Waldron Island (Fiji): A small island in the Fijian archipelago, originally named during the expedition.
Waldron Island (Washington State): An island within the San Juan Islands archipelago in Washington State, USA.
Waldron Ledge (Hawaii): A prominent overlook on the rim of the Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

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References

"Waldron Island (Namotu Island)", http://www.getamap.net/maps/fiji/western/_waldronisland/ accessed 29 March 2014

A full list of references for this article are available at the Richard Russell Waldron Wikipedia page

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Important Notice Regarding Historical Content

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not encompass all nuances or the most current historical interpretations.

This is not professional historical analysis. The information provided should not be considered a substitute for rigorous academic research or consultation with historical experts. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source, the creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information presented herein. Always consult primary sources and scholarly works for comprehensive understanding.

Richard Russell Waldron

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Overview 🧭

👤 Who Was Richard Russell Waldron?

🌍 His Significance

Youth and Heritage 📜

👶 Early Life and Family

🏠 Ancestral Roots

The Wilkes Expedition 🚢

🗺️ A Monumental Undertaking

❄️ Antarctic Discoveries

🏝️ Pacific Charting

🌋 Hawaiian Ventures

🤝 Diplomatic Engagements

Post-Expedition Influence 🏛️

🌟 Washington Society

🤝 Notable Connections

Enduring Landmarks 📍

🌍 Geographical Honors

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Who Was Richard Russell Waldron?

His Significance

Youth and Heritage

Early Life and Family

Ancestral Roots

The Wilkes Expedition

A Monumental Undertaking

Antarctic Discoveries

Pacific Charting

Hawaiian Ventures

Diplomatic Engagements

Post-Expedition Influence

Washington Society

Notable Connections

Enduring Landmarks

Geographical Honors

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Historical Content