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The Power of Iron Over Wood: Sinking of USS Congress and Cumberland

Friday, March 8, 2024

12:00 PM to 1:00 PM EST

In Person | Virtual

Attend this Event

Drawing of USS VA in drydock

Presenter

John V. Quarstein
Director emeritus of the USS Monitor Center

About the Lecture

When CSS Virginia (Merrimack) emerged from the Elizabeth River on March 8, 1862, the tide of naval warfare changed forever. The Confederate ironclad ram attacked and destroyed two Union wooden warships, Congress and Cumberland, providing the power of iron over wood. The United States Navy was stunned by this defeat, which gave the Confederacy control of Hampton Roads…albeit for just one day.

Registration information:

Location: Explorers Theater
Seating is limited. Advance registration is required.

John V. Quarstein

In person

Free for Museum Members.
Included in $1 admission.

Virtual

This lecture is livestreamed
and free to watch online.

Contact Us

For additional assistance, questions, or support:

Guest Relations
[email protected]
(757) 596-2222


Image credit:
The Virginia (Merrimac) in drydock, after being armored. The Mariners’ Museum and Park, P0001.014-04–PNc89.tif

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