The US Navy's Civil War Ferryboat Gunboat: A Story of Bravery and Innovation

During the American Civil War, the United States Navy played a crucial role in defeating the Confederacy, with its fleet of gunboats and ferries serving as a vital component of Union naval power. One of the most fascinating stories from this era is that of the US Navy's civil war ferryboat gunboat, which was converted into a formidable vessel for combat.

On April 9, 1864, Confederate Navy Lieutenant Hunter Davidson commanded the Squib, a small steam-driven boat that was equipped with a spar torpedo. At 2:00 a.m., Davidson and his crew set out to attack the USS Minnesota, a US warship anchored in the James River. The plan was to attach the explosive-tipped spar to the hull of the Minnesota using a grappling hook, and then detonate it remotely.

The Squib managed to approach the Minnesota undetected, but its engine temporarily stalled as it got too close to the target. This gave the Union sailors time to respond, and they opened fire with their small arms at point-blank range. Despite being under heavy fire, Davidson and his crew were able to successfully attach the torpedo and detonate it. However, the damage caused by the explosion was not severe enough to sink the Minnesota.

Less than a month later, on May 6, 1864, another US gunboat, the Commodore Jones, met a different fate. This converted ferryboat was struck by a Confederate torpedo filled with 2,000 pounds of gunpowder and exploded, killing approximately 69 men. This incident marked one of the few times during the war where an attacking party was successfully targeted using a torpedo.

The bravery and innovation displayed by Davidson and his crew in the attack on the USS Minnesota were recognized by their superiors, who commended them for their 'cool daring, professional skill, and judgment' in the face of danger. Davidson's actions that day earned him promotion to commander, and his story serves as a testament to the important role played by Confederate Navy personnel during the Civil War.

The US Navy's civil war ferryboat gunboat may have been a converted vessel, but it was still capable of inflicting significant damage on enemy ships. The bravery and skill displayed by its crew are a reminder that even in the face of adversity, innovation and determination can lead to success.

Us navy civil war ferryboat gunboat