USS Monitor Legacy Program: Tinclads and Timberclads

Presented by John V. Quarstein, Director emeritus of the USS Monitor Center

At the war’s beginning, the Union purchased civilian steamers to help it control and conquer the Mississippi River Valley. Since they could not build ironclads fast enough, Samuel Pook and Commander George Rodgers conceived a plan to turn commercial steamboats into warships. Three ships, Lexington, Tyler, and Conestoga, were covered  by layers of wood and armed with heavy cannons.

Advance registration is required to attend the lecture in person. You can watch the lecture online via YouTube livestream on the day-of the lecture. For more information, visit our website: https://www.marinersmuseum.org/event/tinclads-and-timberclads/

Image Credit: USS Tyler. Courtesy Naval History and Heritage Command, NH 49975