New Ship of the Week on the Header

This week, I am featuring the CSS Chickamauga.

CSS Chickamauga, a 585-ton cruiser, was formerly the blockade running screw steamer Edith, which had been constructed in London, England, in 1863. She was purchased by the Confederate Navy at Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1864 and refitted as a warship. Chickamauga operated as a raider in the western North Atlantic in October and November 1864. After capturing several Union merchant ships, she returned to Wilmington. Chickamauga remained on the Cape Fear River until 25 February 1865, when she was burned to prevent capture.

Sailors from the Chickamauga also took part in the land battle at Fort Fisher in January 1865, as they were detailed to artillery. A number of heavy guns in the fort were manned by navy crews in both battles.