h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Here we must leave the detailed accounts, and just summarize the events that the squadron was involved with. Although there are deck logs available for the period, they are not detailed stories, just a dry report about winds, courses steered and other mundane events.

Although the war between Mexico and the new Republic of Texas was over, American shipping and fishing interests had to be protected from the navies of both countries.

There was considerable tension between France and Mexico over claims of vandalism against some French ex-patriots by the citizens, and even soldiers, of Mexico. France demanded a huge sum of money as compensation. When the Mexican government refused the French sent a squadron of ships to Veracruz. The 'Pastry War' culminated in the Battle of Veracruz in November of 1838.

Leib had returned and was placed on leave on 13 August, 1838, so he missed the battle itself, but was probably involved in the escalation preceding it. On 14 September he was assigned again to the Naval yard at Philadelphia and remained there until April, 1843.

He was transferred to the command of the 'Receiving Ship' at New York. He remained at this position until 2 May 1844. On 22 June,1844 his promotion to the rank of Commander was confirmed, back dated to 30 March.

He had no other assignments, before he passed away on 14 July, 1851.

He was survived by his wife Caroline who died on 23 February 1893.

A few of the questions that remain

We have already mentioned the birth year and family.

There is also a question about his middle name. The earliest record that I have found is the US Navy list of the officers of the war of 1812 http://www.history.navy.mil/wars/war1812/list8.htm His listing of only being assigned to Philadelphia is consistent with his not being assigned a ship until 1816, however in he is listed as Thomas I Leib. Throughout his career he is listed as, and signs his name, Thomas J Leib. The Harrison book goes as far as to identify him as Thomas J(efferson) Leib. The tombstone clearly reads Thomas L Leib. You would think his widow, who survived him by 42 years, would have noticed these errors and had them corrected.

I hope you have enjoyed this glimpse into a man's life. Tomorrow we must go on to other things.

F S

Thank you for telling his story.

[Amy P]