Olmsted, Percy Napier, Ensign

The following data is extracted from Baker County, Oregon, Gold Mining History.

Ensign Percy Napier Olmsted U.S.N., the only one of all Oregon's naval caret appointments surviving the various vicissitudes of Annapolis. Appointed naval cadet for Oregon in 1887 by Hon. Binger Herman, he succeeded in closing the academic course in command of the second company of cadets. Served two years in Honolulu harbor, and was all intimate acquaintance of President Dole and family while there.

Commissioned Ensign by President Cleveland in 1895 and assigned to New York harbor for a time as instructor. From there assigned to the South Atlantic squadron, and given the position of acting flag lieutenant of the squadron. Recalled from Montevideo in December last, and in January of this year served a short time on the battle-ship Iowa, generally conceded to be one of the best fighting machines of her class extant. In February of this year assigned to the flag ship Indiana. Rear Admiral Montgomery Sicard commanding, and given the post of division officer. The fleet now at Dry Tortugas being within a few hours sail of Havana, Cuba. The young man has seen much of service on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans for one of his age, being but 27 years old at this time. He was in the harbor of Valparaiso and was a close observer of the use and effect of modern high power guns in several tilts between the navy unit shore batteries during the late unpleasantness in that country. While at Montevideo he became well acquainted with President Borda and his officers, and was one of the invited guests present at the military review at which Borda was assassinated.

He is accredited with being one of the most scientific and skillful of the young officer, in the American navy in the use of modern long range guns, which together with his knowledge of Spanish and the Spanish language will be much value in case of war with Spain. He is the son of Judge M. L. Olmsted, of this city.

Source: Baker County, Oregon, Gold Mining History

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