Timmy C wrote:
*bump*
Currently building Verlinden Production's CSS Atlanta - basics are finished, she's on her base. I need to know what exactly did she have on her bow - was it a spar torpedo like some of the other ironclads? Also, would like to know whether her boat placement was similar to other ships like her. Thanks!
I have some simple drawings from the Confederate Naval Museum and they do not show any boat(s). However, it is HIGHLY unlikely the Atlanta operated without at least one. Its not unusual for artists and naval architects to leave such features off since they have nothing to do with the actual vessel design. These drawings look as though they were quickly made during an inspection for the USN after she was captured. The notes on the drawing are mine.
Since there is no definitive placement mentioned, there are two likely places a boat (lets assume she had only one). The most likely would probably be the stern since Tennessee and other CSS vessels carried boat(s) there.
The second but less likely IMHO, would be on the starboard side of the casemate between the gun ports. Your call.
The Atlanta did sport a torpedo spar, but I'm not sure exactly sure when it was added. I can only assume she had the spar from the beginning. The first mention of the spar torpedo is mentioned in Iron Afloat as June 16, 1863.
Below is the drawing I have. Sorry about the poor quality, but it's the best I could produce without putting a lot of Photo Shop time in it. You should be able to make out the general arrangement and rigging. Note the spar "davit" on the bow (the curved part).