USS Minnesota: Flagship of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron

Presenter: John V. Quarstein, Director emeritus of the USS Monitor Center

About the lecture: Built at the Washington Navy Yard and commissioned on May 21, 1857, the steam screw frigate USS Minnesota‘s first duty was with the East India Squadron. When the frigate returned to the United States, it was placed in ordinary service until recommissioned when the Civil War erupted. Minnesota initially was stationed in Hampton Roads, during which time it captured several Southern merchant ships.

The warship participated in the capture of Hatteras Inlet in August 1861 and then returned to Hampton Roads, where it was designated as the flagship of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron. Minnesota was a target for CSS Virginia on March 8 and 9, and it escaped with only minor damage. The large frigate remained in Hampton Roads until participating in the capture of Ft. Fisher in January 1865.

Advance registration is required whether you attend the lecture in person or online.

• In person: Free for Museum Members. $1 for guests
• Virtual: This lecture is livestreamed and free to watch online.

You can register on our website: https://www.marinersmuseum.org/event/uss-minnesota/