CSS Albemarle-- Part 8: Cushing Does Her In

The Albemarle's mere presence kept it a threat throughout the rest of the summer and fall.  That is, until October 28, 1864, when Union Lieutenant William Cushing led a daring early morning raid that sank the Albemarle in eight feet of water using a spar torpedo on the front of a launch.

Three days later, without the threat of the Albemarle, Union forces recaptured Plymouth.

Elliott didn't witness his prize creation's demise, though.  He was back at Edward's Ferry constructing another ironclad (that wasn't completed before the war ended).

In 1867, the U.S. Navy refloated the Albemarle and towed it to the Norfolk (Virginia) Navy Yard.  It was deemed useless and sold for scrap, fetching a mere $2,500.

One of her 6.4-inch Brooke rifled cannons is on display at the Headquarters of the Commander U.S. Fleet Forces Command at Norfolk, Virginia, naval base.  Her smokestack is on display at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.    Her bell is on display at  the Port o' Plymouth Museum in Plymouth, North Carolina.

--Old B-Runner