Family/Spouse: Unknown. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Children of Marie Francois Bernardau & Jacques Louis Ripaud De Montaudevert:

. Marie Anne Ripaud de Montaudevert, 1752-1755
. Jacquette Ripaud de Montaudevert, 1753
. François Fidèle Ripaud de Montaudevert,, 1755-1814 Feb 23 Bayonne, France.
. Georges Amand Cyprien Ripaud de Montaudevert, 1756-1757
. Marie Anne Angélique Ripaud de Montaudevert,, 1757-1801
. Juste Benjamin Ripaud de Montaudevert, 1758-1761
. Julien Louis Hillaire Ripaud de Montaudevert, 1761-1810
. Joseph Benjamin Ripaud de Montaudevert, 1764-ca 1799 Died at sea.

. Research, descendants: Lawrence Waterbury, son of James Montaudevert Waterbury. Ripaud de Montaudevert. - - -

Marie married Jacques Louis Ripaud De MONTAUDEVERT, , Sr., Sieur De Montaudevert on 11 May 1750 in St. Pauls Church, Saffré, France. Jacques was born on 22 Apr 1726 in Saffré, Loire, France; died on 11 May 1791 in Saffré, Loire, France; was buried on 12 May 1791 in Saffré, Loire, France. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

. 1785 Sept 12, New York Packet Newspaper
Landing this day out of the shop Alstromer, Capt Skinner, lying at Murray's wharf, & to be sold by James Montaudevert, a parcel of best Hispaniola Muscovado SUGARS, & some COFFEE.
He has also for Sale, A quantity of Coarse Salt, of the best quality, on board the ship Theresa, lying at Governeurs' Wharf.

1785 Sept 26, New York Packet Newspaper
James Montaudevert. No. 202, Queen Street,
Has just imported a quantity of reasonable coarse woollens, which he will sell on moderate terms. He has also for sale a Quantity of SALT, on board the ship Theressa, lying at Gouveneur's Wharf, Also Claret in cases, of the first quality.

. 1786 Dec 20, Matthew Fairservice, Boston, Mass. trader, died Intestate. Letters of Administration granted to James Montuadevert, NY City, merchant, principal creditor.
. 1787 Apr 26, James DeFrancey, kingdom of France, Merchant , Intestate, Administration granted of James Montaudevert, NYC, merchant.
Ref: NY Abstracts of NY County Wills.

Daily Advertiser Newspaper articles:
. 1785 Dec 30 - James Montaudevert. No. 202, Queen Street,
Has just imported per the ship Union, from Barcelona & Malaga,
Raisins in casks, jars & boxes, figs in barrels, lemons & oranges in boxes, excellent old Malaga wines in pipes, half & quarter pipes.
Per the Richmond, Capt. William Marshall, from the cape,
Sugar & Coffee in barrels. Per the last French Packet.
A quantity of reasonable silks.
He has also for sale some woollens; & high proof brandy.

.1786 Dec 26; Jan 16, Apr 21; Mar 21 & Jun 6; James Montaudevert. No. 202 Queen Street
Has just imported per the Ship Union, from Barcelona & Malaga
Raisins in casks, jars & boxes, figs in barrels, lemons & oranges in boxes, excellent old Malaga wines, in pipes, half & quarter pipes, a few jars of fresh grapes.
Per the Richmond, Capt. Wm. Marshall from the cape:
Sugar & Coffee in barrels, per the lsat French Packet, A quantity of seasonable silks. He has also for sale, some woolens, & high proof Brandy.

. FIRST: 1786 Jul 8 - Mr. Printer, By inserting the following in your useful paper, you will oblige a stranger anxious to justify himself in the eyes of a people who he honors, & from whom he hopes for indulgence.
I know that it is ridiculous to weary the public with our private disputes, but we may hope everything form their cancour when oppressed - besides one of the most precious privileges in a republic is the right of complaining of the wrongs that are done us, either by unjust o powerful, when it has been impossible to obtain either satisfaction or an honorable reparation without this appeal.

I was most grievously insulted on the 17th ult. by James Montaudevert - he violated all the rights of liberty & propriety in attacking me, in my own lodgings - I was without arms, without defense, without the least suspicion of his designs but availed superior strength & my security, he fell upon me unawares; & when I was in a situation to defend myself, he found friends generous enough to serve as a barrier between him & me. Let the public imagine the situation of a man to whom honor is dearer than life, & it will easily imagine the means that I have taken to obtain from Montaudevert the satisfaction usual in such cases. I met him in Water St, & in vain demanded of him the satisfaction that men of honor expect of each other, in the presence of M. Dela Barre; it was still in vain. I delivered him a note which contained my intentions, & left him the choice of the means, threatening him with the public infamy, which his refusal would merit - he not only forfeited his work, but he had still the baseness to carry to the French Consul my note accompanied with heavy complaint.

Experience has taught me that I have not any honorable satisfaction to expect from such a man, which therefore determines me to lay open his conduct to the public. I think myself sufficiently revenged by their contempt of him. - He not only refused me satisfaction for the insult he had offered me, but he added to his villainy by accusing me before the French Consul with a design to seek for reparation by assassinating him; a calumny which he repeated by swearing before a magistrate some days later, that his life was in danger: In consequence of this I was bound to keep the peace. Thus this man, who has himself violated the at of society & of this republic has still the baseness to implore its protection.
By this conduct & what I have done the public may easily perceive, that in this instance I have been oppressed, & that nevertheless the oppressor was not ashamed to become the complainant. I flatter myself that the above short relation of facts will convince my friends in particular, & the public in general of the base sentiments & conduct of James Montaudevert. I am happy in this opportunity to inform the public that Montaudevert is accustomed to terminate all his business & disputes in this shameful manner. July 7, 1786. E Guerin.

. SECOND: 1786 Jul 18, - MR. MONTAUDEVERT in his attempt to answer my publication in your paper of the 8th instant, ought to have reflected that either his or my profession is or ought to be of little or no consequence to the public. In reply, however, to this part of his address, I shall content myself with merely remarking, that an under clerk, who invariably renders an exact account of the business & property consigned, to him is, in every community, deservedly held in hight estimation than a pretended great merchant & eminent factor who cannot for want of the means, or does not from a want of principle, do the same.
A hint to the public, but more particularly to foreigners. The declaration made by me, & which Montaudevert has been pleased to term aspersions on his character, where observations founded on fact, & such as his conduct fully justified; & which not being disposed to retract, I received from him the ill treatment he has the effrontery to mention, after having declined the invitation, as a man of honor, gave him. As to his simile, the public can best determine whether his conduct has not more nearly than mine corresponded with that of a snarling puppy, who having privately snapped at, or bit a person, retires with a loud barking at the first appearance of the danger to which his impudent assault has exposed him. E. GUERIN. New York, July 17, 1786.
Note: A reply by James Montaudevert is not yet found. - PJA 2011.

. 1786 Aug 1 - This day will be landed on Browne - John's Wharf, the cargo of the Polacre El Christo Del Buen Viage, from Barcelona, consisting of hight proof Brandy, in pipes, hogshead & barrels, white & red Barcelona, Malaga & Malmsey Wines, in pipes, hogshead & barrels. Likewise, a small assortment of Barcelona Handkerchiefs, which article will be disposed of. By James Montaudevert, No. 202, Queen Street. Also a few cases of excellent Claret.

. 1786 Aug 09 - This day will be landed out of the Schooner Nancy, Capt. Stewart, from St Eustatia, on VanZandt's wharf, a quantity of powered muscovado sugars. Some Tobago rum, cocoa, cotton & molasses, all which articles will be disposed of James Montaudevert, who will give attendance on the wharf.

. 1787 Mar 7, Nice is hereby given to al the creditors of the late John James Coulougnac, that James Montaudevert of this city has received from the heirs at law, in France a power of Attorney to liquidate the estate of the said deceased. All papers concerning may be deposited in the office of the Hon Consult of France.
1788 Feb 5 - The house No. 202, Queen St. next door to Mr. Thos. Pearfall's in which Mr. James Montaudevert now lives, is to be let. Enquire at No. 9. Queen St. - - -

Birth:
/resided

James married Sarah WILSON on 6 Nov 1784 in Trinity Church, NYC. Sarah was born in 1757 in New Amsterdam, New York; died on 12 Feb 1851 in Newport, Rhode Island; was buried in Newport Island Cemetery. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Jacques-Louis (James) is the son of Sarah Willson & Jacques Louis Ripaud de Montaudevert.

. 1786 NYC Directory: Jas. Montaudevert, merchant, 202 Queen Street.

New York Gazette Newspaper
. Seven thousand barrels Turpentine, in shipping order, deliverable at a convenient port in North Carolina, for sale by Cox & Montaudevert, 66 South St., Ref: Published 1815 Apr 21.

. 1811 May 8 Co-partnership.
Edward N. Cox & James L Montaudevert having entered into co-partnership, will transact business on commission at their Store, No. 60 South street (corner of Sough & Wall streets) under the firm of Cox & Montaudevert.

. 1811 May 9 - 254 bales New Orleans Cotton, Landing this day, from Brig. Cannon, for sale by Sox & Montaudevert 60 South St. Corn of Wall St.

. 1811 July 4 - New Rum. 50 hhds. first proof new Rum for sale by Cox & Montaudevert. 60 South street, e Wall Street. Ref: Published 1811 Aug 9.

. 1811 Jul 14 - 1811 July 4 - New Rum. 50 hhds. first proof new Rum for sale by Cox & Montaudevert, 60 South St, E Wall Street. Havana Sugars. 50 boxes brown Havana Sugars of superior quality, landing at Jones's wharf, fro the Brig Almira - For sale by Draling & Deforest, 51 So. Str. (appears to be one advertisement). Ref: Published 1811 July 30.

. 1812 Sep 2 - Extract of a letter from Midshipman Wm. S. Cox, prize-master of the ship John, dated Philadelphia, Aug 31.
I have just arrive din the British ship John of Lancaster, prize to the US sloop of war, Hornet. The John was captured on the 24th Jul, on her passage from London to Martinique, in ballast. She is a staunch ship of 358 tons, bearing a commission as a letter of marque; mounting 16 & 12 pound cannonades. It may probably be a satisfaction to you to knob that all was well with the squadron, with the exception of from 12 to 20 men killed & wounded by the bursting of a gun on bard the President. Commodore Rodgers had his leg broken, but was in a fair way of recovery when I left the Squadron.
The John is consigned, to Messrs. Cox & Montaudevert, prize-agents, of this City.

. 1813 Jan 20 - NY Blockade of our harbor by a British squadron, consisting of 3 shops of the line, 3 frigates & a sloop of war, is now cruising off our harbour. Schn. American Eagle, Capt. I Herlitz, captured yesterday at11 AM 5 miles with the Light House. The Am. Eagle was laden with Malaga fruit. A new order in council was announced at Cadiz about the 1 Dec. authorizing American vessels which had brought provision to carry home the whole proceeds of Spanish produce. The commander of St. Domingo, now knowing this new order, captured A Eagle. The property belongs to Cox & Montaudevert.

. 1815 Jan 13, Rhode Island American Newspaper: New York Jan 9th. The letter of marque schooner Jonquille, Capt. Carmen of this port, has arrived at Beaufort, NC from Port au Prince, 9 days passage, cargo, sugar, tortoise shell & a considerable amount in doubloons. She has captured during her voyage 4 prizes, maned one, ransomed another, gave up to the prisoners the third, & the 4th destroyed. Capt. Carman wrote to his owners in NY, Messrs. Cox & Montaudevert Port-au Prince that the only news at Port au Prince is that 2 ministers send out by the Court of France were received by Pres. Petition & Emperor Christophe. Their demands on the part of the King were, that the island & inhabitants should return to tier former allegiance. This was promptly rejected. Christophe seized the Ambassador ...Petition treated him with much courtesy & sent him in a small vessel to Jamaica (NY).

. 1815 Mar 20 - Turtle Shell - 200 lbs. first quality just received for sale by Cox & Montaudevert, 66 South St.

Marine List Arrived:
. 1815 Apr 26 - The schooner Amelia, Stilwell, 7 days from Richmond, flour & tobacco, to Charles Richards, Cox & Montaudevert, C. Dubois & Homan, Primrose & Co. Left the Connecticut, Furlong, for N York, ready to sail. Spike in the River, bound up, sloop Frances Mary & Sloop Unity. Ref: Published 1815 Apr 26.

NY Evening Post:
. 1816 Apr 19 - French goods - A small voice of 50,000 Francs, consisting of
Women's silk & kid Gloves, men's co.
Plin & figured taffeta Ribbons, satin do.
figured silk Shaws, plain do.
Florences, Virginias, Levetines & Crapes, assorted colors. for sale by Cox & Montaudevert, 66 South St. Pub. 1816.4.26.
. 1818 Mar 13 - Notice: The co-partnership between the subscribers, being dissolved by its own limitation, Edward N Cox, takes on himself the settlement of its concerns. Edward N Cox & James L Montaudevert.

. 1818 Mar 13 - James L Montaudevert & Jonathan Otis Walker continue as commission merchants, at Port au Prince (St. Domingo) under the firm of Montaudevert, Walker & Co. Jas. L Montaudevert, Jona. Otis Walker. Ref: Published 1818 MAR 14.

. Capt. Lawrence had written to just days before Captain Lawrence's death. Ref: Bulletin 1944.

Be it known that in the 14 March 1818 before me Cadwilladen de Villey, Mayor of the City of New York personally appeared me. The above named James L. Montaudevert to me well known, who being by me duly sworn did declare & say that the above depositions by him sustained & the facts stated are true. In Testimony here of I have granted these persons subscribed the same & added the seal of the Mayoralty of the said City to be here unto affixed. SEAL, signed, Cadwallader D. Colden. [Mayor, NYC, 1818-1821.]

State of New York - Be it known that Cadwilladen de Villey who hath subscribed the signing attestation & caused the seal of the Mayoralty of the NYC to be hereto affixed is mayor of the said city XX such & credit is xx acts as such -
Where of an attestation being required, I have granted this under my hand & the Privy Seal of the State of New York. This one at the City of Albany the 4th March 1818.
Signed, SEAL.Dewitt Clinton, Governor of the State of New York.

. Service Record War 1812: PrivateJames L Montauevert, 2nd Artillery Regiment NY, Private & 11th NY Artillery Regiment. Ref: NY Roll Box 146 - 602.

. The letter was addressed to Mr. James Montaudevert, his brother-in-law & was probably the last letter James Lawrence ever wrote:
Dear James: By the enclosed you will perceive that (Capt.) Bainbridge & myself have had a serious difference. However, it is in a manner done away in consequence of an explanation had first evening. An English frigate is close in with the light-house & we are near clearing ship for action. Should I be so unfortunate as to be taken off, I leave my wife & children to your care, & feel confident you will have to them the same as if they were your own. Remember me affectionately to our good mother, Mary & Cox, & believe me, Sincerely yours, J. Lawrence.

Notes1 Midshipman William S. Cox was court-martialed was onboard when Lawrence was wounded, someone then? Who is mother Mary?
James Lawrence, Captain, United States Navy, Commander of the "Chesapeake," By Albert Gleaves. 1858-1937. Published 1904.

. 1818 Feb 20 - Mercantile Advertiser. To let the 3 story brick dwelling, 27 Norfolk St., Enquire of Cox & Montaudevert, 96 Wall St-

. 1818 Mar 18 - Notice: The co-partnership between the subscribers, being dissolved by its own limitations, Edward N Cox, takes on himself the settle of its concerns. Edward N Cox, James L Montaudevert.
. James L Montaudevert & Jonathan Otis Water, continue as commissioner agent at Port au Prince, (St. Domingo) under the firm of Montaudevert Walker & Co., JAS. L Montaudevert, Jona Otis Walker.
Ref: New York Evening Post.

Albany Argus Newspaper, published 1822 May 7
. 1822 Feb 22, By Order of Richard River, Esq., record of NY notice is hereby given to all the creditors of Edward N cox of NY, insolvent debtor, to shew cause if any they have before the said recorder at his office in the city hall, on 18 May next, 10 o'clock in the forenoon, why assignment of the said insolvent's estate should not be made & his person exempted from imprisonment, pursuant to the act entitled ' an act to abolish imprisonment for debt in certain cases, passed Apr 17, 1819. (& similarly:)

. 1822 Feb 27, By Order of R Riker, Esq. ...to all creditors of James L Montaudevert, of NY debtor, insolvent ...why he should not be exempt from imprisonment. ...

. 1823 Mar 1 - Amounts of settlements & delinquencies of prize agents. Communicated to the House of Representatives, May 22, 1824.
J L Montaudevert, Residence New York, not in employ of US;
Observations: Ed. N Cox & J L Montaudevert claim that they are entitled to the balance. When & for what object appropriations were made by Congress: July 13, 1813, capture of the British brig Peacock. Balance due on Mar 1, 1823 $13, 505.78 (i.e. half of the bounty)
Ref: Treasury Dept., Fourth auditor's office, April 23, 1824.
Research1: Husband James Lawrence captured the Peacock from Britain, however his commanding officer told Capt. Lawrence that he was entitled to half the share of the Peacock's purse. Midshipman William S. Cox tried to assist the dying Capt. Lawrence. The men on Lawrence's ship also asked about their shares & this was all happened as Lawrence put to sea to fight his final battle! - PJA

. 1823 Mar 1 - Abstract of balances due from prize agents:
Edward N Cox, Residence New York, purser in Navy, & J L Montaduevert, New York, not in employ of United States, July 13, 1813, capture of the British brig Peacock; Balance due & Remaining due: $13,505.78.
Observations: Edward N Cox & J L Montaudevert claim that they are entitled to balance. Cox's pay has been ordered to be stopped.
Ref: US Treasury Dept, Fourth Auditor's Office, April 23, 1824.
Note3: E N Cox is married to James' sister, Mary Montaudevert.

. 1823 Dec 27 - Jacob Dunham took charge of the Schooner Allen. She was a small sharp-built schooner, armed with a long 6 pound cannon, mounted on a circle, with a patent slide, & was well fitted for sea. My crew were 3 seamen, a mate & cook. We sailed from New-York the 29 December, & made our passage to the Island of Old Providence in 17 days, where we stopped & traded 3 or 3 days, & then proceeded to the Island of St. Andreas, ... & then sailed for Chagres... Panama, After a few days I received a letter from a Mr. Montaudevert, informing me that Mr. Craig, the consul had left Panama & departed for New-York on a visit, leaving him in charge of his business during his absence.
In 3 or 4 days after I received his letter he arrived at Chagres & took lodgings on board with me. The next day he hired a large canoe to take the goods up the river to a place called Cruses, a distance of 42 miles, which is said to be the head of canoe navigation on that river. The provisions I had on board was all put up in half barrels for the customary mule transportation over the Isthmus, by slinging 2 across each mule's back, 2 half barrels being a load for a mule. After all our arrangements were made the canoe was hauled alongside of the Allen. When she made her appearance there I was struck with surprise at her length & breadth, she being some feet longer than my little schooner. I took up a rule & measured her breadth, which I found was 8 feet from one side to the other, & her length over 60 feet, being dug out of one solid tree, free from shakes or cracks.
Mr. Montaudevert told me if I returned there in the Allen next voyage he would ship on board of her on freight, $30,00o worth of dust. This may show the reader that gold dust has been gathered in that region for many years; & if that country was as well searched as California is at this day, no doubt many beds of that valuable ore might be found. I remained in Charge 8 or 10 days, selling goods from the vessel at retail at good prices. Having four hogsheads of rum & brandy on board, which I found was a contraband article in that government, I entered them at the custom house for exportation, & afterwards sold them to an American captain, who agreed to meet me a few miles at sea, out of the jurisdiction of that government, where I delivered them & received my pay.
I got under weigh & proceeded a few miles to sea, when I found the vessel lacked ballast, ... Island of St. Andreas, where I took Mr. Henry T. Smith, & his return cargo on board, consisting of four hundred pounds of tortoise shell, & 5 or 6 thousand dollars in gold & silver, which he had collected for the owners of the Allen. As my little schooner was a fast sailor, pilot-boat model, I beat to the windward, hoping to get sight of the Island of St. Domingo & sail through the windward passage. After a few days we succeeded in obtaining sight of that Island & sailed along under the lee of it; keeping a bright look-out for suspicious looking vessels. Knowing that my vessel had been taken from the pirates, I was fearful that some of the former gang who once had possession of her might capture me, when I could not expect anything but immediate death.
Ref: Journal of Voyages by Jacob Dunham, 1850.
Note4: Numerous more advertising may be found, cotton, sugar, Turpentine, for passengers on there ferry at Pine St. - PJA

. Rec. 1824 Sept 1, County of New York, Mr. James L. Montaudevert of the City of NY, Merchant, being duly sworn doth depose & say that Captain James Lawrence late of the United States Navy was the brother-in-law of this deponent having married his sister & that the only surviving issue of that marriage is Mary N. Lawrence who as born on the 3rd day of May in the year of our Lord 1810 & further he saith not. J S Montaudevert.
Note5: Mont au de vent is French for The Mountain of the Wind / Windy Mountain. - PJA.

. Research2: Descendant James Montaudevert Waterbury 1851, NY who for years has been conspicuous in business, society & sports ...business office.

. 1843 NY Passenger Arrived: In the ship Bazaar of Boston, from Canton, J L Montaudevert, of NY.
Ref: NY Tribune Newspaper.
Note6: Must have been quite an impressive trip from China for a man 50 or so years still sailing about the high seas! -PJA

. 1845 Feb 24 - Report of the Commissioner of Expired Patents:
Montaudevert, James L, Residence Charlotte, N.C. Gold, extracting from ore, Expired Patented April 30, 1831.

. Maude Livingston married Apr 21 1900, Lawrence Waterbury, son of James Montaudevert Waterbury.

. 1873 - Columbia University, Graduates in Arts: James Montaudevert, Jr. Waterbury, (m), A.M. 69 South St. , N. Y. City. Bache McEvers Whitlock, (l), LL.B. 187s, A.M. 1876. 4g Wall St..." - - -

Died:
Waterbury, NY [before 1815 Dec. 20.]

Notes:

She married first Samuel Neill and had a son, Samuel Montaudevert Neill.

. 1840 Census Newport Rhode Island
Cox, Edward N, Males: 1 40-50y. Males 1 50-60;
Females 1 56060y & 1 female 80-90 { ie. mother Sarah Montaudevert], 1 female servant. Total five.

. 1858 Newport City Directory,
Cox, Mary, Wid. of Edward, h 6 Kay (1856 Newport Directory, also.)
Lawrence, Julia, Wid. of James, h. 6 Kay.

. In miniatures of Newport is especially rich, for this was the home of Edward G. Malbone. Portraits may be seen at the Metropolitan Museum of New York are: one of Miss Monaudevert, later the wife of the famous Captain Lawrence, a miniature likeness of Lieutenant Cox, later Purser Cox, & his wife [ie. Mary Montaudevert].
Ref: History of Newport County, Rhode Island, Richard M Bayles, 1888.
Note: The portrait of Mrs. James Lawrence is now at the Smithsonian American Art Museum 2014. -PJA.

. 1855 Nov 2, At a Vestry meeting, the undersigned ladies attending the above Church, respectfully represent that they experience very great inconvenience from the stove heating of the Church to such an exact that many are compelled to absence themselves from Church during the winter songs. they suggest that such mood of ventilation be adopted as may seem expedient, signed, Mrs EN Cox, Mrs Lawrence & 13 other ladies.
. 1858 Jul 30 - Petition to Trinity church Vestry, as Mr. Mercer preaches with great person discomfort, indeed injury to himself in the summer months, we suggest he preach in his Chapel. Signed, 68 ladies, inc. Mrs. Julia Lawrence & Mrs Mary Cox.
Ref: Annals of Trinity Church, Newport, Rhode Island.

. 1860 Jun 23 Census, Newport, RI.
Julia Lawrence, Age 70 /b. 1790, Real Estate $3500. Personal Estate $1500. Born NY
Mary N Cox, Age 73 /b. 1787, Real Estate $4000, Personal Estate $2000. Born NY.

. Island Cemetery, Newport, Monument: rounded top cement Monument, with raised lettering reading:
In memory of Mary Montaudevert, widow of Edward N Cox, U.S.N.
born June 30, 1785, died June 24, 1869. - - -

Birth:
/resided.

MARY married Edward Noel COX est 1810. Edward was born in 1782 in Maryland; died on 11 Aug 1845 in Newport, Rhode Island; was buried in Trinity Church Cemetery, Newport. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Julia (Juliette) is the daughter of Sarah Wilson & James Montaudevert.

As Julia Montaudevert Lawrence was in her confinement for the birth of twins, the news of husband James's death was kept from her as long as possible. The infants James did not survive.

. PORTRAIT, Smithsonian American Art Museum of Mrs. James Lawrence (Julia Montaudevert), painting Dates: ca. 1808-1812. Medium: Oil. Dimensions: 36 x 28 in. (cm. 91.4 x 71.1) Subject: - Waist length Artist: Unknown, painter.

A wistful Julia is seated, Empire dress, with with large lace collar, fluffy light coloured silk or satin hat. Julia is a thin lady with dark eyes & curly dark hair. Puffy sleeve partially cover her hands, but no wedding ring is apparent, thus the portrait was apparently painted before her marriage.
Owner of painting: US Naval Academy, The Museum, 118 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland, 21402-5034.

. HISTORIC SUMMER HAUNTS FROM NEWPORT TO PORTLAND reports that Edward G. Malbone is to Summer after summer Malbone came to Newport, & his death occurred at Savannah in 1807 when he was on his way north. Many of his miniatures are to be seen in the town. He painted the Miss Montaudevert. Many of these dainty portraits are found set in heavy lockets, imbedded in the covers of jewel boxes, & framed sometimes in simple gold rims & sometimes ringed about with pearls & garnets.
... So it also appears Julia was live in Newport as well as NYC before her marriage to James Lawrence.

. 1814 Jul 1 Brooklyn - Letters remaining the Post Office: Mrs. Julia Lawrence.
Ref: Long Island Star Newspaper, Brooklyn, NY.

. Reminiscences of Newport, by Geo. G Newport, 1884:
There is a miniature here of Miss Montaudevert, the daughter of a French merchant who resided in NY 3 generations ago. ...married James Lawrence... The miniature, which is in the possession of her granddaughter, Mrs. Wm. Redmond, has faded somewhat, but it is still clear in its details. The dress is not unlike that of the Empire, cut low, with a very short waist; & in the hair one sees the large tortoise-shell comb which was at the time generally worn. Mrs. Redmond has a superb portrait of her grandfather, Capt. Lawrence, painted by Stuart.

Tomb of Capt. Lawrence was opened to receive the remains of his widowed 56 years after the lovely girl of 19, the daughter of a NY merchant married the most handsomest officer in the Am. Navy. Mrs. Lawrence lived opposite the Bowling Green, near by, than the most elegant, quiet, & fashionable quarter of NY. She died at Newport 15 Sept. at 78 years of her age. Since her husbands death she resided chiefly at Newport, an object of interest & veneration to the frequenters of that place. Now she has returned to her childhood place to never more be separated from him.
Ref: Achievements of Celebrated Men, James Parton, NY, 1881.

The tomb of Capt. Lawrence was opened, not long since, to receive the remains of his widow who survived him by 52 y. 7 d. at Newport on the 15 Sep, in the 78 years of her age. The little company of friends that gathered about the hallowed spot on that occasion, were scarcely observed by the throng of passers-by, & the event was not noticed in the appears of the next morning. 56 y. had elapsed since Julia Montaudevert, a lovely girl of 19, the daughter of a NY merchant gave her hand at the alter of Trinity to Lieut. Lawrence then 27 & reputed than handsomest officer in the American navy. She lived opposite the Bowling Green's most elegant, quite & fashionable quarter of which she was wife but 4 y., during much of which he was absent on duty. Short lives of the most interesting persons. By James Parton. 1883 NY.

. James Lawrence was given the command of the 12 gun Brig Vixen. An interesting letter, incompletely dated, written by Lawrence to this wife presumably while in command of the Vixe, has recent come to light, it is as follows:

.1812 May 5th. My Dearest Julia, Baltimore,
As I was disappointed in getting my letter ashore in time for Sat.'s mail, I hasten on my arrival at this place to inform you that not being able to bear the suspense I was kept in, I made application a few days past for permission to go on to Washington for the purpose of having a confab with the Secretary, he very politely answered me by saying h e would be happy to see me.
I this morning left the brig in my new boat & arrived her after a pleasant passage of 5 & 1 half hrs. intending to leave this early in the morning for Washington, but on attempting to dress for the pursue of making 1 or 2 calls, you can better judge than I describe, my disappointment, on overhauling my trunk, to find that in place of my new coat, my darned Portuguese Steward had packed up an old storm stay sail that had been condemned these 2 years, you will scarcely credit me when I assure you that I bore it lake a philosopher, imputed it an accident on his part, did not utter an oath, sat down & ate a hearty supper, felt more comfortable than if I had gotten into a violent passion & finally determined to send Mr. Cooper back for my coat & wait his return with patience. He will not be able to get it before next Tues. evening; the next morning I shall leave this city.
As soon as I see the Secretary, I will write you fully. You may rest assured that I shall call to aid all the rhetoric I am possessed of & if possible get permission to return. If it is intended to send Mr. & Mrs. Barlow out with me, I shall certainly see them in Washington & give them such a beautiful account of the accommodations, particularly as respects to the ladies as will, I am in hope, induce them to take a merchant man form choice.
I believe our darling is a year old to-day; kiss her affectionately for me; that she may experience many, many happy returns of the day is the fervent prayer of her doting father. I shall attend most strictly to our request & write in the morning to your Aunt Parker. Remember me affectionately, my dearest Julia, to the family, & believe me truly, Your affection. J.L.
P.S. I take Cooper with me, as I which to introduce him to the Secretary.

. 1815 Sept 25, Schenectady. IN PARTITION, To the honorable the justices of the supreme court of judicature of NY State:
The petition of Stephen N Bayard, late city NY, now of the city of Schenectady, executors of John Ellis, late of NY, Mary Sanders, widow, John, Augusta & Eliza Anna co-heirs of Thomas Sanders;
James L Montaudevert, Edward N Cox & Mary his wife, Julia Lawrence, widow & relict of James Lawrence, deceased; & Sarah Montaudevert, widow of late James Montaudevert, all of the same NY city, (the said James, Mary & Julia being the children & co-heirs of the said James Montaudever, deceased;) (316 acres.)
& Stephen N Bayard, trustees of legal representatives of Haym Solomons & Jacob Morecai, of NY, merchants, under the Arm of Solomons & Morecai, now deceased; (337 A.) who are also the legal representatives of Archibald Gamble, (213 A.) heretofore of said city, merchant, now deceased -
are tenants in common in portions in town of Broome, Schoharie Co., also to partition the premies & to be then sold. Stephen N Bayard.
Ref: Albany Argus Newspaper, 1815 Sept 29 & Commercial Advertiser of 1815 Dec 20.

PRIZE MONEY
. 1818 Nov 21 - For rewarding the officers & crew of the sloop of war Hornet, & Lieut. Eliott & his officers & companions, 13 July, 1813 $37,000; Names of prize agents to who the amount was advanced: Cox* & Montaudevert, Amount accounted for, Amount accounted for, per account settled. $23,494.22. Balance in the hands of the prize agent unclaimed, $13,505.78 (ie. half.)

. 1819 Jul 26, common Council, Alderman Stephen Allen presented the following Resolution which was unanimously agreed to:
Resolved, The Finance committee be instructed to grant the freedman of the City, with a piece of plate to late Captain James Lawrence, so far as to present to the family the mementoes of his gallantry in the capture & destruction the the British Sloop of War, Peacock.
. 1819 Aug 9, The Committee reported: That they have ascertained from Mrs. Lawrence now a resident of the village of Greenwich, the the Certificate of Citizenship alluded to was presented her by his Honor he Mayor & is now in her possession, but the piece of plate with which she would have been much gratified, has not been produced or presented agreeable to the resolution.
. 1819 Nov 1, At a Common Council, Alderman Allen, from the committee on that subjected ported that the piece of plate directed to be executed & presented to the family of the late Capt. James Lawrence, was completed. Whereupon the Finance Committee were requested to take order for presenting the same in the same of this corporation to Mrs. Lawrence, the Widow of the late Captain Lawrence.
Ref: Collections of the NY Historical Society for the year 1885.

. 1848 Jul 10 -Historical & Miscellaneous Questions by Richmal Mangle from the 84th London Edition, with large additions, embracing the Elements of Mythology, astronomy, Architecture, Heraldry, Etc. ...
Adapted from schools in the US by Mrs. Julia Lawrence., with embellished with numerous engravings on wood. Fifth Edition, revised & corrected, with a chapter on the Am. constitution. New York. D, Appleton & Co. 90,92, (4, Grand St. 1869.)
Preface to the Am. Edition of Hangnail's Questions.
Having for many years made use of Hangnail's Questions in the education of my own children, I was tempted to introduce them into my school; although they were not in general use, it being an expansive boon & at that time (7 years since) difficult to be obtained ...allotted to the history of the US. etc. NY, Julia Lawrence. (This book also has a questioned devoted to James Lawrence.)

. 1853 - Subscriber, Mrs. Julia Lawrence, New-York. Pg. 368, & Page. 264 is devoted the the sea battle where her husband died.
Ref: History of Rhode Island, by Edward Peterson.

. 1855 Tax Book of the City of Newport,
Lawrence Julia, Real $15, Personal 15, Assessment of Tax $24,00
Cox, Edward N, Dec'd, Est. Real $0, Personal 20, Assessment of Tax $28.80.
Note1: Ed. Cox is her brother-in-law. Verify relationship to Wm. Cox who aided James Lawrence when he was wounded.

. 1856 Newport City Directory,
Cox, Mary, Widow of Edward, h 6 Kay (1856 Newport Directory, also.)
Lawrence, Julia, Widow of James, h. 6 Kay.
Note2: Mary Montaudevert Cox is sister is Julia Montaudevert Lawrence. - PJA

. 1859 May 22. Letter from Julia Lawrence, Newport, RI., to Wm A Whitehead, published in the NJ Historical Society Proceedings, IX 9, The coat itself has been in the procession on the NJHS, to which Mrs. Lawrence presented it, since May 19, 1859. See the Port Folio II:3, Sept 1813, 253.

. Census 1860 Jun 23, Newport, RI.
Julia Lawrence, Age 70 /b. 1790, Real Estate $3500. Personal Estate $1500. Born NY
Mary N Cox, Age 73 /b. 1787, Real Estate $4000, Personal Estate $2000. Born NY.

. 1862 Mar 31, Mon. Disasters: Ship Julia Lawrence of Rockland Spear, at NY from Havre, reports March 6 1st, 40 30, ton 55, while lying to in a gale from NW, carried away the rudder head.
Ref: Boston Daily Advertiser.

Five sample OBITUARIES:
. 1865 Sep 23 - Newport, Died In this city, 15th inst. Julia Montaudevert, widow of Capt. James Lawrence, U.S.N., in the 77th year of her age.
Ref: Newport Mercury; also Providence Evening Press, 1865 Sep 19.
. 1865 Sep 28 - General Intelligence: Julia Montaudevert, widow of Cape Jams Lawrence, author of the expression "don't give up the ship," died at Newport, R. I., on the 15 inst, in the 78th year of his age.
Ref: Macon Telegraph Newspaper, Georgia.

1865 Sept 23, Friday - Obituary Death of the Widow …At the time of her marriage to Capt. Lawrence. 1809 Julia Montaudevert was a beautiful girl of 19, resident with her father, who was a respectable merchant in the then fashionable portion of New York city, which overlooked the Battery & the husband was a young lieutenant of the navy, in command of the Vixen. The record Is that Lawrence & his bride were a model couple. Both were young, as Byron says & while the lady was beautiful, the Lieutenant was noted as being one of tho handsomest men in the navy, "a man of noble stature & One personal appearance."
"He had the air & manners of a gentleman-like sailor & was much beloved by his friends. He was quick & impetuous in his feelings & sometimes manifested it on the quarter dock, but in all critical situations his coolness was remarkable." says Fenimore Cooper* This was a model of which we have lately had examples by men who were midshipmen when Lawrence graced the navy as a captain, & the little "middy" Farragut has revived the model for our day & a future age's instruction. Cooper, in his admiration of Lawrence, called him "a perfect man of-war's man," & Decatur expressed himself in even stronger terms of admiration of the young hero. Said the old Commodore in his sailor's lingo, "There's no more dodge about Lawrence than the mainmast."
…Many years go a writer in the National Interdigencer? says he met an old "negro servant" of Mr Lawrence family &i asking after Mrs. Lawrence's health, was answered that she was "doing quite well, & had got a line son with an eye like a bull." …She died at three o'clock In the morning.
Ref: New York Herald, page 5, abbreviated for repetition. -PJA
Note3: Fenimore Cooper, famous author & live in Burlington in the adjoining house to the Lawrences.

. 1865 Sep 22 - Death of Capt. Lawrence's Widow - Interesting Reminiscences:
A Newport correspondent of the N.Y. Evening Post, referring to the death of Julia Montaudevert, widow of Capt. James Lawrence which occurred in Newport on the 15th instant, gives some interesting Reminiscences, from which we select the following: The Death of Lawrence. 52 years ago, the first day of June last, occurred one of those events which suffice to make an individual permanently renowned & adds a memorable incident to the annals of a nation. Capt. James Lawrence, United States navy, whose distinguished services in the war with Tripoli, gallant victory over his Britannic Majesty's ship Peacock, acknowledged ability as an officer & probity as a man, as well as dignified manners & handsome appearance, had already made him famous & endeared ... Capt. Broke, of his Britannic Majesty's frigate Shannon went out from Boston harbor to fight. It was a gallant but imprudent act. Weeks of drill had prepared the Shannon whereas the crew of the Chesapeake had been 2 months ashore, after a long cruise, Lawrence as just appointed commander & the men were nearly strangers to him. The first lieutenant was ill on shore, the second inexperienced. At half past 12 am the 2 vessels were 30 miles from Boston light. The Shannon Chesapeake reserved her fire till she got to close quarters....in 15 minutes the enemy boarded with without opposition, in a fierce but disorderly fight. ... Lawrence was taken into Halifax & died in 4 days. ...now after more than half a century, his noble widow is laid beside him.

Mrs. Lawrence occupied a small but eligibly located cottage, the chief ornament of whose little parlor is an excellent portrait of her gallant husband. Our naval officers, during the many years that she has resided in Newport, always called to pay their respect to her; & on one occasion las year, when 3 of the most distinguished, before greeting her, bent their heads before the portrait in recognition of their honored comrade, she was moved to tears. Just before her death she requested an attendant to read aloud the little memoir of her husband, as if feeling the powers of her mind failing, she desired to renew its memory every incident of his brief but brilliant career. Too feeble to listen to the whole, she requested that the leaf should be turned down & the remainder read next day. A few hours after she was struck with paralysis & never spoke again.
Few women have passed through greater greater vicissitudes. Her health was so delicate at the time of her husband's death that the event was concealed fro her, though with great precaution & difficulty. Lawrence died in June, & his wife knew if not until September. Meantime having given birth to a son (who lived but 15 months), she constantly inquired as to the whereabouts & welfare of her husband, wondered why he did not write & asked constantly to have the news read to her. One day a sailor shouted under the window in praise & pity of the martyred captain of the Chesapeake, but fortunately his unconscious widow was in a deep sleep & the vigilance of the family nurse kept the sad tidings from her until she had strength to bear them.
Her affections, thus rudely despoiled, were centered on her daughter, the pride & comfort of her bereaved life, but no sooner h ad this idolized child reached maturity & married a gallant ad favorite officer of the navy her father had adored, than symptoms of alarming illness appeared, a milder climate was recommended & in a few weeks Mrs. Lawrence returned childless to the US. [c.1843]
It was passing the summer of that year at Newport that she determined to make it her home; & many of the old residents remember her when with her beautiful grandchild & handsome Italian nurse, a morning but dignified & unique lady who soon endeared herself to the people among who she thenceforth lived. Manifest in her tone & temperament as her genuine American feeling.
Ref: Providence Evening Press & NY Post forward by Henry T Tuckerman, Esq.

. 1865 Oct 13, Obituary Julia Montaudevert, d.15Sept 1865 Newport, RI, Aged 78. Ref: Dundee Advertiser, Scotland.

. 1865 Sep 30 - Court of Probate City of Newport, Sept 25, 1865}
William Redmond, Jr. presents to this court an instrument in writing dated the 1st. day of Jul 1858, purporting to be the last will & testament of Julia M Lawrence, late of Newport, widow of the late Capt. James Lawrence, late of the U.S. Navy, now both deceased, & in writing states that he is the husband of the granddaughter of said Julia M Lawrence, & praying that William Gilpin of Newport, or some other suitable person, may be appointed administrator & the will annexed on the estate of said Julia M., there being no person named in the said will, the executor thereof.
& the same is received & is referred to Monday, the 16 Oct Next, at 10 a.m., at the Council chamber in the City Hall, in Newport, for consideration, & it is ordered that notice thereof be published for 14 days once a week in the Newport Mercury. Benjamin B Howland, Probate Clerk, Sept 30.
Ref: Newport Mercury.

. 1866 Dec 29. Mortgages Sale
By virtue of a power of sale contained in a Mortgage deed, made & executed by Elvinea W Jordan & Elizabeth E Jordan his wife, under date of Oct 26, 1863 v recored in Land Evidence of Newport, Book of Mortgages #6, p. 98 -99, there will be sold by Auction of the premises in Newport, 15 Dec, 12 o'clock noon, land bound as follows N land of R E Remington, E lands of heirs of Wm Smith, part on lands late Julia M Lawrence & partly on land of XX Cox.
Ref: Newport Mercury, 1866 Nov 17 & Dec 29.

Recorded for further research: District Court for the Southern District of NY in the case of US Vs. The Julia Lawrence, decided by Judge Betts in 1860. - - -

ABRAHAM LINCOLN LETTERS:
Newport, Dec 29 (1861). His Excellency Abraham Lincoln, President United States,
Honor'd & respected Sir, some weeks since, I took the liberty to address a letter to you in behalf of my Nephew Mr. Delaney M. Neill, a youth of high minded noble quality, who wished a Lieutenancy in the regular Army, & I am proud to say will be a credit to the Profession. He is now recruiting in this native State of New York, as first Lieutenant of his Regiment & who I should esteem it a personal favor if he receives the Appointment thr'o my influence, having never before asked a favor from the Government but as the widow of the late Captain James Lawrence who fell in the War of 1812 with the England while defending the Flag of his Country, {abroad] the ill fated Frigate Chesapeake, I feel entitled to some consideration, & to hope that you will hereby grant my request.
Most respectfully yours, Julia M. Lawrence.

- The writer of this I understand to be the widow of Commodore Lawrence, whose dying words, "Dont give up the ship" are so well known. She should be obliged, if possible. Signed, A. Lincoln, Jan. 16. 1862.

- It appears that Mrs. Lawrence's nephew did not receive the requested appointment. - Daniel Worthington
Notes: accompanying this letter.
1. Mrs. Lawrence's other letter has not been found.
2. The precise identify of Mrs. Lawrence's nephew remains a mystery. She named her only daughter Mary Neill Lawrence. The nephew in question might be Delancey Neill, who the Census 1870 was living in the household of a Joseph A Neill, also a Edward Montaudevert Neil who served during the was as an assist adjutant general with Ambrose Burnside IV Cprs. Army of Potomac. Delancy Neill would have only been 16 or 17 years old in 1861. 3. Another possibility J DeLancey Neil, Lieut., 101 NYV Infantry.
Ref: Records of the Chief Clerk & Admin Assit. Washington, DC., Published in the Jul 2009 Quarterly Newsletter of Lincoln Editor.

Research & transcriptions by PJ Ahlberg. Thank you. - - -

Birth:
ALT Montauedvert/ Monument 18 Jul 1788.

Died:
Will dated 15 July, 1858.

Buried:
- buried with husband, James Lawrence.

Julia married Capt. James LAWRENCE, .iii on 28 Jun 1808 in Trinity Church, NYC. James (son of John Brown LAWRENCE, Esq., U.E. and Martha TALLMAN) was born on 1 Oct 1781 in Burlington, Burlington Co., New Jersey; was christened on 14 Nov 1781 in Burlington County, New Jersey; died on 6 Jun 1813 in Halifax, Nova Scotia; was buried in Jun 1813 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]