Haynes, Watson G., recipient.

Watson G. Haynes was a seaman who, according to Charles Sumner [see item (87) below], "started the movement against flogging in the Navy."

Between December 1849 and June 1850 the United States Senate received 271 petitions from the citizens of various states urging the end of flogging. In September 1850 Congress abolished flogging in the Navy and merchant marine. On 3 March 1851, the commutation of the liquor ration was restricted to "officers and their attendants" only. On 31 August 1853, Congress repealed the 1851 law and the liquor privilege was once again opened up to the rank and file. Source: Website of the U.S. Navy Department Library.

From the guide to the Letters sent to Watson G. Haynes on the initiative to change regulations in the United States Navy, 1846-1852., (Houghton Library, Harvard College Library, Harvard University)