The article 'Lost Confederate Ironclads Resurface in Dramatic Discovery' presents the compelling account of the recent rediscovery of the CSS Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa, two Confederate ironclad warships submerged during the Civil War.
This significant revelation sheds new light on their historical importance and offers a unique opportunity to revisit this lesser-known aspect of Civil War history.
Delving into the construction, role, and ultimate fate of these well-preserved wrecks, the narrative unfolds to provide valuable insights into their significance.
The involvement of Sydney Schell, a retired Mobile maritime lawyer, in the discovery further adds to the intrigue.
With a focus on mastery and historical depth, this article offers a captivating exploration of the resurfacing of these lost Confederate ironclads.
Key Takeaways
- CSS Huntsville was constructed at the Selma Ordnance and Naval Foundry and launched on February 7, 1863.
- The ship was a steam-powered propeller-driven ironclad, measuring 150 feet long, 32 feet wide, and with a draft of seven feet.
- CSS Huntsville served as a floating battery in Mobile Bay, participating in the Battle of Mobile Bay and shelling federal troops during the sieges of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakeley.
- The Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa were scuttled in the Spanish River near Fort Blakeley on April 12, 1865, to prevent them from falling into the hands of advancing federal forces.
Construction and Specifications of CSS Huntsville
The CSS Huntsville, a steam-powered propeller-driven ironclad, was constructed at the Selma Ordnance and Naval Foundry by shipbuilder Henry Basset. Launched on February 7, 1863, it measured 150 feet long, 32 feet wide, with a draft of seven feet.
Initially lacking an engine, it was towed to Mobile Bay and fitted with an engine from an old riverboat. The Huntsville was armed with four 32-pound smoothbore guns and one 6.4-inch rifled gun. Notably, the armor plate on the Huntsville was less than the four inches installed on the CSS Tuscaloosa.
This powerful vessel served as a floating battery in Mobile Bay, playing a crucial role in defending Mobile and supporting Confederate forces during battles and sieges. Ultimately, the CSS Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa were scuttled to prevent capture by advancing federal forces, and were later rediscovered in 1983.
Role of CSS Huntsville
Playing a crucial role in defending Mobile and providing gunnery support to Confederate forces, CSS Huntsville served as a floating battery in Mobile Bay during the Civil War. Its significance was particularly pronounced during the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864, where it actively engaged Union forces.
The Huntsville also played a pivotal role during the sieges of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakeley, effectively shelling federal troops. However, its impact was limited by running out of ammunition during these sieges.
The Huntsville's efforts were ultimately cut short by the scuttling of the vessel in the Spanish River near Fort Blakeley on April 12, 1865. This strategic move aimed to prevent the ironclad from falling into the hands of advancing federal forces.
The CSS Huntsville's presence and actions significantly contributed to the Confederate defense of Mobile Bay and the surrounding areas.
Scuttling of CSS Huntsville
CSS Huntsville's scuttling in the Spanish River near Fort Blakeley on April 12, 1865, marked a strategic maneuver to prevent the ironclad from falling into the hands of advancing federal forces.
Scuttling Significance:
1) Tactical Maneuver: The scuttling of CSS Huntsville was a crucial tactical decision to deny the ironclad to the Union forces, preventing its potential use against the Confederate army.
2) Strategic Preservation: It symbolized the Confederacy's attempt to preserve its naval assets from falling into enemy hands during the waning days of the Civil War.
3) Sacrificial Action: The scuttling of CSS Huntsville underscores the sacrifices made by the Confederates to prevent the technological superiority of the Union army.
Scuttling Preservation Efforts:
Efforts are needed to preserve and protect the historical significance of the scuttled CSS Huntsville, potentially including salvage operations and the establishment of protective measures to ensure its long-term conservation and study.
Rediscovery of CSS Huntsville
In December 1983, retired Mobile maritime lawyer Sydney Schell made the dramatic discovery of the scuttled wrecks of the Huntsville and Tuscaloosa, covered in mud and silt in approximately 30 feet of water.
The rediscovery of CSS Huntsville holds immense historical significance due to its crucial role as a floating battery in defending Mobile Bay and providing support to Confederate forces during the Battle of Mobile Bay and the sieges of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakeley.
The impact of its rediscovery lies in the opportunity to further study and understand the technological advancements and military strategies employed during the Civil War. The remarkably well-preserved condition of the ironclads offers a unique window into this pivotal period of history.
However, as of now, there are no plans to raise or preserve the Huntsville and Tuscaloosa.
Additional Information
The rediscovery of the CSS Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa in December 1983 provided additional information about their historical significance and condition.
Additional Information
- CSS Huntsville's Unique Features
- CSS Huntsville, lacking an engine, had to be towed to Mobile Bay and fitted with an engine from an old riverboat.
- This ironclad measured 150 feet long, 32 feet wide, with a draft of seven feet in the water, armed with four 32-pound smoothbore guns and one 6.4-inch rifled gun.
- Its armor plate was less than the four inches installed on the CSS Tuscaloosa.
- CSS Huntsville's Impact on the Civil War
- Served as a floating battery in Mobile Bay, defended Mobile, and provided gunnery support to Confederate forces.
- Played a role in the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864, and shelled federal troops during the sieges of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakeley.
- Ran out of ammunition during the sieges and was scuttled to prevent capture by advancing federal forces.
The additional information sheds light on the unique features and significant role of CSS Huntsville during the Civil War.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Were the Specific Challenges Faced by Shipbuilder Henry Basset in Constructing the CSS Huntsville?
Shipbuilder Henry Basset faced challenges in constructing CSS Huntsville, including the lack of an engine, requiring towing to Mobile Bay, and fitting an old riverboat engine. The ironclad played a pivotal role in defending Mobile Bay and was scuttled to prevent capture. Preservation efforts for the sunken ironclads are currently not in place.
How Did the CSS Huntsville Contribute to the Defense of Mobile Bay During the Civil War?
The CSS Huntsville played a pivotal role in the defense of Mobile Bay, employing innovative defense strategies and bolstering naval warfare. Despite engineering challenges, its impact was significant. Preservation efforts are crucial to honor its historical significance.
What Measures Were Taken to Scuttle the CSS Huntsville and Prevent It From Falling Into the Hands of Federal Forces?
To prevent the CSS Huntsville from falling into the hands of federal forces, Confederate soldiers scuttled the ironclad in the Spanish River near Fort Blakeley on April 12, 1865. This measure aimed to deny the vessel to the advancing Union troops to protect Confederate assets.
What Factors Contributed to the Excellent Condition of the CSS Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa When They Were Rediscovered in 1983?
The excellent condition preservation of CSS Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa when rediscovered in 1983 can be attributed to the mud and silt covering, protecting them. Their archaeological findings carry significant historical significance.
Are There Any Ongoing Efforts or Future Plans to Raise or Preserve the Sunken Ironclads Huntsville and Tuscaloosa?
Currently, there are no plans for the future preservation of the sunken ironclads Huntsville and Tuscaloosa. However, the discovery of these well-preserved wrecks presents an opportunity for potential underwater archaeological research and preservation efforts in the future.
Conclusion
The rediscovery of the lost Confederate ironclads CSS Huntsville and CSS Tuscaloosa provides valuable insights into their construction, role, and ultimate fate during the Civil War.
The well-preserved wrecks, submerged in approximately 30 feet of water, shed new light on their historical significance and offer a compelling opportunity to revisit this lesser-known aspect of Civil War history.
This discovery holds great promise for further research and understanding of the pivotal role played by these ironclads in defending Mobile Bay and supporting Confederate forces.
Our Reader’s Queries
What happened to the CSS Alabama?
The CSS Alabama, a notorious Confederate commerce raider, meets its demise in a dramatic battle off the coast of France against the USS Kearsarge.
Where was the CSS Alabama sink?
The USS Kearsarge sank her in June 1864 at the Battle of Cherbourg, which took place outside the port of Cherbourg, France.
Why was the CSS Alabama important?
Constructed in England and operated by an English crew alongside Confederate officers, the CSS Alabama emerged as the most triumphant and infamous Confederate raiding ship during the Civil War. From mid-1862 to early 1864, the Alabama seized 65 ships bearing the U.S. flag and destroyed one Union warship.
What type of vessel was the CSS Alabama?
Constructed in 1862 by John Laird Sons and Company in Liverpool, England, the screw sloop-of-war Alabama was built for the Confederate States of America. Originally named Enrica, the ship was transformed into a cruiser and officially entered service as CSS Alabama on 24 August 1862.
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