Jones was built at Sacketts Harbor, New York, for service in Commodore Isaac Chauncey's fleet on Lake Ontario and was launched on 10 April 1814.

After the British commander, Sir James Yeo, raised the blockade on 6 June, an epidemic struck the American fleet causing further delay.

As the American ships approached the port, now in British hands, they intercepted enemy brig HMS Charwell and chased her ashore where her crew set her ablaze.

The next day Jones and the schooner Conquest were ordered to cruise between Oswego and Sackett's Harbor protecting American communications.

Jones rejoined the fleet on 17 September and operated with it during the remainder of the navigation season attempting to draw Sir James Yeo's ships into a decisive contest.