Union Navy

[advanceguard]

Hello All,

Naval history is out of my range of knowledge, but just discovered that the brother of my ancestor Harvey Otis Jr.--killed at Winchester, VA 1864--member of Co. A. 156th NY, Henry Otis served on the Shamrock and the Arletta(which he mustered out of service on in 1865). I'm just a bit curious and figured there is a wealth of knowledge that might be able to enlighten me on the activities of these vessels and maybe a picture or two.

Thanks in advance,

[One is the Left!]

Re: Union Navy

Here's what I've managed to dig up. None of it's mine, and I can't verify the authenticity of any sources. The bottom isn't the "Shamrock", but it's the same class of ship:

http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/a12/arletta.htm

http://www.history.navy.mil/photos/sh-usn/usnsh-s/shamrok.htm

http://tmlha.exis.net/miami.jpg

[Marine Mike]

Re: Union Navy

I'll suggest a couple of books for the two theaters these ships served in.
By Sea and by River: The Naval History of the Civil War by Bern Anderson for blue and brown water operations.
From Cape Charles to Cape Fear: The North Atlantic Blockading Squadron during the Civil War by Robert M. Browning
Lincoln's Admiral: The Civil War Campaigns of David Farragut by James P. Duffy will adequately cover the Western Gulf
Life in Mr. Lincoln's Navy by Dennis J. Ringle will introduce Navy life.
James McPherson just published War on the Waters, September of last year covering north and south navies.

These should give you a good start.