CSS Mississippi-- Part 5: Now It's a Labor Issue

Labor troubles arose in November 1861, shortly after work had begun on the ironclad.  The workers in the shipyards struck, demanding that wages be increased from  $3 to $4 a day.  The other owners wanted to wait out the strikers, but after a week, the Tift brothers gave in.  The others were also forced to give in.

Trouble of a different type soon reared its head shortly thereafter when the Tifts found they  were competing with E.C. Murray, who was building the CSS Louisiana. This involved  the same skilled workmen who were needed for both ships. There were not enough to go around.

To ease this problem, a compromise was reached.  The Tifts and Murray agreed to share the labor, with the Louisiana getting  first call.  After it was completed, then the work would shift to the Mississippi.

Yet another set of delays popped up because of local military policies.  These insisted that men of certain ages participate in militia training, activities and even parades.  A protest to the governor went no where.  Murray and the Tifts then petitioned  Major General Mansfield Lowell that the men be exempted.  

Although Lowell agreed and issued an order to the effect, the practice continued.

If Its Not One Thing, It's Another.  --Old B-Runner