The United States Navy, a History 

The American Civil War was a time of incredible naval innovation, as monitor class ironclads (warships in the style of the USS Monitor) began to replace old, wooden frigates. The North’s first attempt at an ironclad, pictured here, featured a thick iron hull and one turret, which could fire its eleven-inch cannons in any direction. Monitors soon outclassed older ships and prompted rapid innovations in naval technology and ship design. 

View this book in the library catalog.

Drawn from the Museum & Library's rare book collection, this special display is part of SEAL The Unspoken Sacrifice—providing a unique glimpse into the history of the U.S. Navy. Featuring authentic texts and compelling illustrations dating to the Navy's beginnings in the late 18th century, these rare books and documents trace the evolution of naval warfare from an era of masts, sails, and pirates to the advent of steam-powered ironclads, and from the UDT Divers of WWII to the Navy SEALs of today.

Anyone can use PMML Rare Book Room resources. Click to make an appontment.