USS Monitor

USS Monitor at sea

John Ericcson, designer of the USS Monitor - Charles D. Fredricks & Co., "Specialité," 587 Broadway, New York LCCN2016646196 (cropped)

Monitor model2

USS Monitor plans

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Launch USS Monitor

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Class overview
Name	USS Monitor

The USS Monitor was an ironclad warship built for the Union Navy during the American Civil War. It was the first such ship commissioned by the Union and played a significant role in naval warfare.

Design and Construction

The USS Monitor was designed by the Swedish engineer John Ericsson. Its most notable feature was its revolving turret, which housed two 11-inch Dahlgren guns. The ship was constructed at the Continental Iron Works in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and launched on January 30, 1862.

Service History

The Monitor is best known for its participation in the Battle of Hampton Roads on March 9, 1862, where it fought the CSS Virginia to a standstill. This battle marked the first meeting in combat of ironclad warships and signaled a new era in naval warfare.

After the battle, the Monitor continued to serve in the Union blockade of the Confederate States of America. It saw limited action due to its design, which was more suited for river and coastal operations rather than open sea engagements.

Sinking

On December 31, 1862, the USS Monitor sank during a storm off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Sixteen of its crew were lost. The wreck was discovered in 1973 and has since been the subject of numerous archaeological studies.

Legacy

The USS Monitor's innovative design influenced the construction of future warships. Its revolving turret became a standard feature in naval architecture. The ship is commemorated at the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary and the Mariners' Museum in Newport News, Virginia.

Related Pages

• Battle of Hampton Roads
• CSS Virginia
• Ironclad warship
• John Ericsson
• Union Navy
• American Civil War