USS Cairo


Here she is - Old Ironsides! The USS Cairo was sunk less than one year after being commissioned to protect the Mississippi River during the Civil War. This beauty stayed underwater for more than one hundred years before being raised in 1964.

The boat was actually intact underwater and very well preserved by the clay bed of the Mississippi. However, the strain of bringing the old boat to the surface caused it to break into three pieces. Luckily she was restored and put back together and is now on display at the National Military Park in Vicksburg.


It's really an amazing piece of machinery. It's amazing that something like this could even float! If you're ever in the area, I highly suggest a stop at the military park, the USS Cairo alone is worth seeing.

13 comments:

Small City Scenes said...

It truly is amazing. A real piece of history. MB

Unknown said...

It is amazing the amount of history we overlook in MS.

Lynette said...

The boat and the accompanying museum are two of my favorite spots at the Military Park. Your photos are fantastic.

cieldequimper said...

Très intéressant et bien de l'avoir "sauvé".

Olivier said...

en effet bien conserve apres avoir coulé. Une belle machine.

Jim Klenke said...

neat pics and history, not something I would want have been on during the war.

B SQUARED said...

She certainly has become a part of "living" history.

Lois said...

A fascinating piece of our history!

Tanya Breese said...

so cool halcyon! and i love the mosaic of pics!!

EG CameraGirl said...

I think it's amazing that ships actually survive so well under water.

Anonymous said...

Peaceful waters for you all - surely an impressive mean to measure time and life. A good Thursday for you all.

daily athens

brian stout said...

neat pics! i've driven through vicksburg... and gambled there, but didn't get to spend as much time as i'd like looking around! one day i'll make it back =)

VP said...

I have read so much about these ships and I am do glad that I can see one!