NOVEMBER 20TH, 1864: Edward La Croix of Selma, Alabama, writing Secretary Welles from Detroit (spy?), reported that a torpedo boat had been constructed at Selma for use against Union forces at Mobile Bay.
he described her: "Length, about 30 feet; has watertight compartments; can be sunk or raised as desired; is propelled by a very small engine, and will stow five men. It has some arrangement of machinery that times the explosions of the torpedoes, to enable the operators to retire to a safe distance.
"the boat proves to be a good sailer on the river and has gone to Mobile to make last preparations for trying its efficacy on the Federal vessels."
La Croix was referring to the submersible torpedo boat Saint Patrick built by John P. Halligan who was also her first commander. It was a source of concern for Federals in Mobile Bay and in 1865, did attempt to sink a blockader.
--Old B-Runner
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