Army Transport Harvest Moon Destroyed by Torpedo in St. John's River

APRIL 1, 1864: The Army transport Harvest Moon was returning from carrying troops to Palatka, Florida, when it struck and was destroyed by a Confederate torpedo (mine) in the St. John's River. She was one of several victims of torpedoes on this river after Confederates had placed twelve floating torpedoes on it, each containing 70 pounds of powder.

On April 16th, Army transport General Hunter was also destroyed by one at almost the same place near Mandarin Point.

Confederate torpedoes continued to play an increasing role in the defense of harbors and rivers.

As Major General Patton Anderson, CSA, noted, the torpedoes "taught him [the Northerners] to be cautious in the navigation of our rivers."

--Old B-Runner