The Timberclads in the Civil War - by Myron J Smith (Paperback)

About the Book

In the most detailed history of Union warships on the western waters of the Civil War, the author recounts the exploits of the timberclad ships Lexington, Tyler, and Conestoga. Converted to warships from commercial steamboats at the beginning of the conflict, the three formed the core of the North's Western Flotilla, later the Mississippi Squadron. The book focuses on the activities of these wooden warriors while providing context for the greater war, including accounts of their famous commanders, their roles in both large and small battles, ship-to-ship combat, and support for the armies of Gen. U.S. Grant and Gen. William T. Sherman.

Book Synopsis

In the most detailed history ever of Union warships on the western waters of the Civil War, the author recounts the exploits of the timberclad ships Lexington, Tyler, and Conestoga. Converted to warships from commercial steamboats at the beginning of the conflict, the three formed the core of the North's Western Flotilla, later the Mississippi Squadron. The book focuses on the activities of these wooden warriors while providing context for the greater war, including accounts of their famous commanders, their roles in both large and small battles, ship-to-ship combat, and support for the armies of Gen. U.S. Grant and Gen. William T. Sherman.

Review Quotes

"thorough research...the first, and what is likely to be the definitive, study of the timberclads. Highly recommended."-Choice; "provides a vast amount of detail...immensely valuable...impressive...highly recommend it"-North & South; "If it sailed on the brown water of America's Western rives during the Civil War and flew the Stars and Stripes of the Union Navy, Myron Smith more than likely knows about it"-America's Civil War; "a comprehensive, well-researched account...a must read"-Nautical Research Journal; "Smith seasons his treatment of operations and engagements by drawing upon first hand accounts, which can be griping, informative, amusing, or even all three, making the narrative much more vivid and helping to give us an excellent look at the river war"-Strategy Page; "fantastic"-The Lone Star; "this very thick and intensively researched book describes admirably the very important role played by those three ships. The author has performed a valuable service in so vibrantly bringing to life this very important factor in the Union Navy's role in winning the Civil War"-Baird Maritime; "an excellent account of the Civil War on the Mississippi and the other great western rivers...gripping, informative, amusing...vivid"-The NYMAS Review.

About the Author

Prolific author Myron J. Smith, Jr., is emeritus library director and professor at Tusculum University, Greeneville, Tennessee.