Down She Goes, the Sinking of the USS Monitor-- Part 2

The Monitor's situation continued to deteriorate as the storm worsened.  Large waves were crashing over and covering the deck and pilot house.  The crew temporarily rigged the ship's wheel to the top of the turret which was manned by helmsman Francis Butts.

Water continued flooding into vents and ports and the ship began rolling uncontrollably in the high seas.    Sometimes she would drop into a wave with such force that the whole ship would tremble.  Leaks were beginning to appear everywhere.

Bankhead ordered the Worthington pumps to be started which temporarily stemmed the rising waters.  But, then the Monitor was hit by a squall and a series of violent waves and water continued to make its way into the Monitor.

Just as the Wothington pumps could no longer keep up the engine room reported that the water was gaining there as well.

Bankhead realized his ship was doomed and signaled the Rhode Island for help and hoiseted  the red lantern next to the Monitor's white running light atop the turret.

Serious Situation.  --Old B-Runner