USS Fulton (1837)-- Part 2: Lots of Rebuilds

After commissioning, the Fulton steamed up and down the Atlantic coast aiding ships in distress, testing ordnance and training officers in gunnery.  A big thrill for the ship was besting the British steamer SS Great Western in a speed contest off New York.

The Fulton was decommissioned  at New York 23 November 1842 and was in ordinary until 1851 when she was rebuilt and her machinery completely replaced.

The essentially new Fulton was launched 30 August 1851 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.  However, to enable her to cruise in open waters that involved a rebuild.  Recommissioned in 1852 for duty in the Home Squadron and then went on a cruise to the West Indies.  After this rebuild she was commonly referred to as the Fulton III.

--Old B-Runner