William Barker Cushing: The Civil War’s Most Daring Naval Officer
Early Life and Career
William Barker Cushing was born in Fredonia, New York, in 1842. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy but was expelled in his senior year for disciplinary reasons. However, he was soon readmitted to the service and quickly proved his worth as a skilled and courageous officer.
The Sinking of the CSS Albemarle
Cushing’s most famous exploit came in October 1864, when he led a daring raid up the Roanoke River to sink the CSS Albemarle, a powerful ironclad that had been terrorizing Union forces. Despite heavy fire from the ironclad and from shore, Cushing’s launch steamed full speed ahead into a log boom and placed a spar torpedo under the Albemarle’s hull. The explosion sank the ironclad, giving the Union a major victory.
Hero’s Welcome
Cushing’s success made him a national hero. He was awarded the Thanks of Congress, promoted to full lieutenant commander, and honored in his hometown and other cities. His image graced the cover of Harper’s Weekly, and he became a symbol of the Union’s fighting spirit.
Later Career
After the war, Cushing continued to serve in the Navy, rising to the rank of rear admiral. He commanded the Asiatic Squadron during the Spanish-American War and played a key role in the capture of Manila Bay. He died in 1874 at the age of 32, but his legacy as one of the most daring and successful naval officers in American history lives on.
The Legacy of William Barker Cushing
William Barker Cushing’s daring raid on the CSS Albemarle was one of the most audacious and successful naval operations in American history. His courage and skill inspired his fellow sailors and helped to turn the tide of the Civil War in favor of the Union. Cushing’s legacy continues to inspire naval officers and historians alike, and he remains one of the most celebrated figures in American naval history.
Additional Details
- Cushing’s raid on the Albemarle was considered a suicide mission, but he and his crew pulled it off with incredible skill and daring.
- Cushing was just 22 years old when he led the raid, making him one of the youngest officers to command such a dangerous operation.
- The CSS Albemarle was a formidable ironclad, but Cushing’s spar torpedo proved to be its undoing.
- Cushing’s victory over the Albemarle helped to open up the Roanoke River to Union forces and contributed to the eventual Union victory in the Civil War.
- Cushing’s raid is still studied today by naval officers as an example of how to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.