The bell was cast especially for the U.S.S. Princeton, commanded by Captain Robert F. Stockton, under whose patronage the Princeton was built. On February 28th, 1844, the vessel went on a pleasure trip down the Potomac River with President Tyler, his cabinet, and other distinguished guests invited by Captain Stockton to witness the ship and its machinery in operation. During the excursion, one of the guns, called the Peacemaker, exploded, injuring many people, including Captain Stockton, and killing Abel P. Upshur, Secretary of State, Thomas W. Gilmer, Secretary of the Navy, Captain Beverly Kennon of the Navy, Virgil Maxcy, and Colonel David Gardner. By special invitation of Captain Stockton, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Princeton attended the launching of the Princeton on Thursday, September 7, 1843.
