By Timothy Page

Admiral George Dewey, a prominent figure in American naval history, is widely recognized for his remarkable achievements during the Spanish-American War. This article examines the life and accomplishments of Admiral Dewey, highlighting his Vermont connections and the impact they had on his journey to becoming a naval legend.

George Dewey was born on December 26, 1837, in Montpelier, to Julius Yemans Dewey and Mary Perrin.

His father, a physician, founded the National Life Insurance Company. George’s family grew up across Main Street from the Vermont State House. As a lad, he would blindfold himself, stand at the top of the State House steps, and run as fast as he could down the steps, through a narrow gate, and across the street – heedless of the traffic.

As a young boy, Dewey exhibited an early passion for the sea, nurtured by the tales of maritime adventures he read, despite being raised in New England’s sole landlocked state. His Vermont roots instilled in him the values of determination, self-reliance, and a strong work ethic.

Dewey’s education began in Montpelier’s local schools before he moved to nearby Johnson to attend the People’s Academy. After graduating, he enrolled at Norwich University, located in Northfield, Vermont, which would later become a prominent military institution. Dewey’s time at Norwich University laid the foundation for his future military career, fostering discipline and leadership skills that would serve him well in the years to come.

Naval Career and the Spanish-American War:

In 1854, Dewey entered the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, embarking on a path that would define his legacy. He graduated in 1858 and began his naval career, swiftly rising through the ranks due to his exceptional skills and determination.

As a young officer aboard a warship set afire during the Civil War, Dewey rescued from death by drowning or fire several sailors trapped below.

Dewey’s Vermont connections remained strong throughout his naval career. He often returned to his home state to visit family and friends, finding solace and inspiration amidst Vermont’s serene landscapes. The rugged beauty of the Green Mountains served as a reminder of the resilience and grit required to excel in his chosen profession.

However, it was during the Spanish-American War in 1898 that Admiral Dewey’s name became synonymous with triumph. Leading a squadron of ships, including his flagship, the USS Olympia, Dewey achieved a resounding victory at the Battle of Manila Bay in the Philippines. His strategic brilliance and unwavering resolve enabled the American fleet to decisively defeat the Spanish navy, effectively marking the end of Spanish colonial rule in the Pacific.

Admiral Dewey’s triumph at the Battle of Manila Bay catapulted him to national fame and earned him the title of “Hero of Manila.” His Vermont roots remained an integral part of his identity, and he often acknowledged their influence on his success. Following his historic victory, Dewey was hailed as a hero not only by his fellow Vermonters but also by the entire nation.

In recognition of his extraordinary achievements, the state of Vermont honored Admiral Dewey with numerous tributes. Johnson, his childhood hometown, erected a statue in his honor, while Montpelier named a street after him. Norwich University, where Dewey had received his education, established the Dewey Hall in his memory, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy.

Admiral George Dewey’s journey from the hills of Vermont to the pinnacle of naval history exemplifies the resilience and determination of a true American hero. Shaped by his Vermont upbringing, Dewey’s unwavering commitment to duty and strategic prowess propelled him to the forefront of the Spanish-American War. Today, his legacy lives on, reminding us of the powerful impact that one individual, driven by their roots and convictions, can have on the course of history.

Sources:

“George Dewey.” Naval History and Heritage Command

“Admiral George Dewey.” Vermont Historical Society

“Dewey Hall.” Norwich University.

“Admiral George Dewey.” Vermont in the Civil War.

Further Reading:

Dewey and Other Great Naval Commanders by Edward S. Ellis

Admiral Dewey: A Biography by Louis Stanley Young

Further Watching:

“A New Force at Sea”, The US Naval Institute