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The people of Quincy would like a visit from the USS Arkansas (BM-7), and President Roosevelt asks Secretary of the Navy Moody to make the necessary arrangements.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1903-05-02
Assistant Secretary of the Navy Roosevelt informs Gardner E. Dickinson that he is concerned about the naval militia in Georgia, particularly in Brunswick. Roosevelt states the Savannah militia received the latest report well, but if the militia in Brunswick refuses to accept criticisms or advice, he will have no choice but to take the monitor away from them. Roosevelt wishes to fix the issues at hand with the Georgia militia, particularly because Georgia is where his mother is from.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1897-08-30
Colorized stereograph showing the USS Puritan. Several sailors and crew can be seen standing on the deck of the ship. Text on the reverse of the stereograph lists the ship measurements and armaments, the number of crew on board, and the cost to build the ship.
As printed on the reverse of the stereograph, “The United States double-turret monitor Puritan is used in coast defense. Its keel was laid in 1875. Its length is 289 feet 6 inches; breadth, 60 feet 1 inch; draft, 18 feet; speed, 12.4 knots; horse power, 3,700. Coal capacity, 410 tons. Thickness of armor plate, 14 inches. Officers and men, 222. Cost, $3,178,046.
This type of warship is of great value. It can be used as a floating battery in coast defense, having 12-inch guns of the modern type.”
The article describes an early rotating gun battery invented by Theodore R. Timby and exhibited in 1843. It outlines the design and mechanics of the circular, steam-powered fort and argues for Timby’s recognition as the true inventor of the naval turret system.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-09-08
Assistant Secretary of the Navy Roosevelt advises Secretary Long that monitor ships ought to be put into commission to maintain parity with the Spanish Navy. Recent events, including the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana, Cuba, have highlighted the need for a strong naval force. While Congress may balk at increasing the size of the Navy, Roosevelt cautions that “it may be held against us for all time to come, not merely by the men of today, but by those who read the history in the future” if the Department does not recommend it.
Massachusetts Historical Society
1898-02-16
Charles Edgar Clark expresses his concerns over the weaknesses of the United States Navy in the Atlantic and West Indies. He believes that any large force sent by Germany would have the advantage since the majority of the United States fleet is currently in the Pacific. Admiral Taylor is also recommended as a good officer for large commands.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1903-02-05