Spanish-Russian Relations

Describes establishment of russian settlement north of San Francisco desertion of a russian sailor. (A. Dell'aqua, 1/87)

Comandante Arrillaga reports that four Anglo-american sailors were apprehended off coast by Escolta de San Juan Capistrano. Their ship is believed to be same one which requested water and firewood in spring 1805 around San Luis. Captain Kimbell of Vergantin piacook (peacock) in original and translated letters states purpose of expedition was fur trade and fishing. These four, plus two russians and two Indian deserters from fragata imperial off San Diego, sent to San Blas on fragata Concepcion. Detained in Celaya, awaiting request for funds in silver to take them to Guadalajara. In Celaya, William Webb asks for catechism and catholic baptism which are given him. Prisoners taken to Veracruz to be turned over to authorities of their respective governments. Americans sent to Boston. Lists of expenses kept for prisoners in order for Spanish government to be reimbursed by foreign governments.

Two deserters from russian fragata juno first taken to San Francisco mission, then sent to Veracruz via San Blas, Guadalaxara and Mexico. from Veracruz, the two sent on to la Havana to be turned over to russian authorities. They are joined by 4 Anglo-Americanos and 2 indios gentiles from non-Spanish territory who will be sent as far as Mexico to determine how to turn them over to officials from their countries. These 6 deserted from fragata imperial. Lists of daily expenses are kept for all eight deserters, so that Spanish government can be recompensed by their respective governments. These documents are followed by ones which are advised in 1806 that three russian fragatas, juno, nedeyda and Neva request permission to stop in San Francisco for provisions and repairs. An exception is made and three will be allowed to land (they do not have a pasaporte from Spain). A copy of an original French pasaporte is attached, as well as a translation from russian of an official document from tsar Alejandro I, stating that ships are on official exploration and trade missions with russian-american company. This document requests that foreign governments provide diplomatic safety to russian ships while in foreign territories. (J. M. Johnson, November 1986).

(A. Tukey, June 1988)