Confederate Ironclad vs Union Ironclad Hampton Roads 1862
Confederate Ironclad vs Union Ironclad Hampton Roads 1862 is part of the Osprey Military series, whose volumes feature some general history and many illustrations. This volume not only tells the construction story of the ironclads USS Monitor and CSS Virginia and their monumental battle, but goes on to discuss later ironclad designs of both navies with some details of the battles they fought in. Technological specifications are given and advances, especially in heavier ordnance and armor, are mentioned, as is the failure of the Union Casco class light-draft ironclads due to increased weight. There is also an “Aftermath” detailing the service of the Union ironclads following the Civil War. Several of them were still afloat and saw limited service in the Spanish-American War. Confederate casemated ironclads are also well covered. However, Confederate Navy buffs will immediately notice the absence of any mention of the CSS Missouri. While never having served in battle, it should be noted, at least technologically, for its paddle wheel located in the center of its casemate and sticking well out of it. The Osprey series are well regarded for their illustrations and this book is no exception. The cutaway drawing details of both the Monitor and Virginia add much to our knowledge of the vessels. Some of the battle scenes were commissioned especially for this volume. A note on the publication information page states they are available for private sale. This is a well-written, exceptionally well-illustrated and interesting volume. It will be of interest to Civil War naval history buffs and others who desire to round out their libraries. It also might make a great gift for a young person with an interest in history and technology. Reviewer: Joseph A. Derie is a VMI graduate and a long time Civil War buff and military book reviewer. A retired Coast Guard officer and licensed officer of the Merchant Marine, he is a Certified Marine Investigator and marine surveyor.
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Illustrated, bibliography and further reading, index, softcover, 80 pp., 2008. Osprey Publishing, 443 Park Ave. S, New York, NY, 10016, $17.95 plus shipping.