West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) to R. West
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03836.22 Author/Creator: West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) Place Written: Hampton Roads, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 September 1861 Pagination: 8 p. : docket ; 24.7 x 19.4 cm. Order a Copy
Is at Hampton Roads for repairs. Gives an account of the collision. When on board the USS "Flag," he noticed the ship was not well disciplined. Describes the crew. Goes on to describe in detail how the frigate USS "Susquehanna" and the "Flag" came to collide. Says the "Flag" sustained damage to the "upper works" and "was in no danger, her elongated bow and cutwater having acted as a fender for her timbers and planking." Sums the situation up by saying "The rule for two steamers meeting to avoid collision is perfectly clear and simple, viz, both ships put their helms aport, the effect of which is precisely the same as 'keep to the right' with wagons. Instead of this, we put ours to starboard while the frigate did not port her's soon enough, and the result, I have told you." When they returned to Washington, all the officers of the "Flag" asked to be transferred. Was told the "Flag" is still to take him down to the "Wabash," and that he is to wait for her to be repaired. Separate note in his mother's hand on page 8 is initialed by "RW."
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