Robert Henley was born in James’ City county, in the state of Virginia, on the 5th day of January, 1783. He was educated at William and Mary College, in that state, and intended for the profession of the law; but his mind seeming bent on a seafaring life, his parents reluctantly permitted him to apply to his relative, General Washington, for a midshipman’s warrant, which, at his particular desire, was obtained, and he entered the navy in 1799. Although but sixteen years of age when he entered the service of the United States, he possessed a good mind and showed great firmness and decision of character; he had laboriously applied himself to reading and study, more particularly in preparation for the naval service, which it was his determination to follow, although at that time his wishes were unknown to his friends. His first cruise was with Commodore Truxtun, in the Constellation, and he was present at her encounter with the French ship “La Vengeance.”

Not a year had elapsed before our young sailor had an opportunity of knowing by experience the toils and hardships of a seafaring life. On the first of February, 1800, the desperate conflict between the Constellation and La Vengeance took place, and during the struggle, which lasted from eight in the evening until nearly one in the morning, the bravery of Midshipman Henley was unflinching; although nearly exhausted by fatigue he never for one moment deserted his post, and after the conflict was over, was one of the first who was complimented by his commander for his bravery, who observed while pointing to him, “That stripling is destined to be a brave officer.”

On his return to the United States he obtained leave of absence and returned to Williamsburgh, where he attended a course of lectures on navigation and naval science. This seemed to infuse him with new life and vigor, and his buoyant pride was soon gratified by an appointment to the command of a gun-boat at Norfolk and promotion to a lieutenancy. After remaining some years in this and similar situations, he received the command of the brig Eagle on Lake Champlain, and was second in command to Commodore McDonough in that decisive battle; who, in his official letter, speaks of the gallantry of our hero, as follows:—“To Captain Robert Henley, of the brig Eagle, much is to be ascribed; his courage was conspicuous, and I most earnestly recommend him as worthy of the highest trust and confidence.”

For his gallant conduct throughout this engagement, Congress voted to Captain Robert Henley a gold medal (see Plate XIII.,) and the thanks of both houses. After the battle of Lake Champlain, Captain Henley resided for some time in Norfolk, Virginia, in order to overlook some matters connected with the naval station at that place, until 1827, when he was called to the command of the Hornet, and ordered to cruise in the West Indies. On his return to the United States he was stationed in North Carolina, where he remained some years; from thence he was ordered to Charleston, South Carolina, where he died in command in the year 1829. He married in early life but left no family. Captain Henley was a man of fine and commanding appearance, of a sanguine and ardent temperament, combined with great decision of character: although generous and brave, he was easily appeased; he was magnanimous, hospitable, and possessed a warmth of heart that made him the idol of his crews; he was full of chivalry, and a devoted lover of his country; whose interest seemed to govern every action of his life.

DESCRIPTION OF THE MEDAL.

Occasion.—Victory on Lake Champlain.

Device.—Bust of Captain Henley.

Legend.—Rob. Henley, Eagle prÆfect. Palma virtu. per Æternit. Floribit.

Reverse.—A fleet engaged before a town enveloped in smoke. Several boats on the lake filled with sailors rowing.

Legend.—Uno latere percusso alterum impavide vertit.

Exergue.—Inter class. Ameri. et Brit. die 11th Sept. 1814.