West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) to R. West
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03836.71 Author/Creator: West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) Place Written: Aboard USS "Fernandina" off St. Catherine's Sound, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 August 1864 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 20.2 x 12.6 cm. Order a Copy
Says he has been occupied in organizing and drilling the crew. Says he has been lucky that every ship he has been on has had good crews. Says he is surprised that the Navy Department still sends seaman to a sailing ship like the "Fernandina" when there are so many new steamers in the fleet. Says the ship is in disrepair. Says he will probably remain idle and not get home for some time. Says he wrote to the admiral about the poor condition of the ship and the response he got said "With reference to the security of the 'Fernandina' in heavy weather, you must use your judgment." Wonders if it is better to commanding an idle sailing vessel where he can use his professional knowledge or an active steamer that needs little skill to run. Has heard Farragut has run the forts at Mobile "in his usual salamander fashion."
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