August 21, 1863: Confederate Torpedo Boat Torch Attempts To Sink the USS New Ironsides-- Part 1

AUGUST 21ST, 1863

The Confederate torpedo boat Torch Pilot James Carlin, made a gallant night attempt to sink the USS New Ironsides, Captain Stephen C. Rowan, in the channel near Morris Island.  The small steamer, which was constructed from the hulk of an unfinished gunboat at Charleston, sailed low in the water, was painted gray and burned anthracite coal (very little smoke) to avoid detection.

She took on much water and her engines were of dubious quality when she made her run at the blockader.

When but 40 yards away from the New Ironsides, Carlin ordered the engines cut and pointed his ship at its prey.  The boat failed to respond properly to her helm, and the New Ironsides swung about her anchor slowly with the tide.

The torpedo failed to make contact with the ship's hull.

--Old B-Runner