From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships

Bonita is a species of fish allied to the mackerel.

(Sch: T. 74; l. 68'6"; b. 19'; dr. 6'; cpl. ca. 30; a. 1 18-pdr. S. B.; cl. Bonita)

The first Bonita, a schooner, was built in 1846 by Brown and Bell, New York, N. Y. Intended for the Mexican Navy, she was purchased by the United States in May 1846 following the outbreak of the Mexican War and commissioned about 30 May, Lieutenant H. Y. Purviance in command.

Bonita reported to the Home Squadron at Anton Lizardo, Mexico, 28 July 1846 and saw very active service along the Mexican coast. She took part in the second attack on Alvarado (15 October 1846); 1st Tabasco Expedition (16-27 October); capture of Tampico (14 November); capture of Laguna del Carmen, Yucatan (20 December); Veracruz landings (9 March 1847); Veracruz bombardment (22-23 March); capture of Alvarado and Alvarado River Expedition (1-2 April); Tuxpan capture (18 April); occupation of Frontera (19 May); and the 2nd Tabasco Expedition (14-22 June). Bonita also took six prizes. She remained on the Mexican blockade until returning to Norfolk during the summer of 1848. She was sold there 15 October 1848.