Confederate Ironclad 1861–65 (New Vanguard)

Angus Konstam is an English naval historian with a wide range of interests from 20th century military ships to the American Civil War navies. This short book of only 47 pages has some unusual photographs and facts about the curious Confederate naval vessels. Although there isn't an actual picture of the famous Merrimac, there is a revealing one of the similar Atlanta after it was captured by the Weehauken and Nahant. Near the end are useful statistics on each vessel that was operational. This book is highly recommended for those interested in this subject.

A compact good overview with sufficient content to allow the reader to expand their specific needs using other more compartmentalized texts. A great starting point and what I wanted

Excellent book, easy read. Historical research was fair, good reference material. Well done, Thanks!!!

Great read with a lot of info. Well written

Great information about the subject!

During the Civil War Union forces ran into Confederate ironclads throughout the southern states, everywhere in between the Red River and Norfolk. Reading this book, you get the sense of the Confederate Navy's attempt to provide a uniform set of vessels, well-armed and usually well-armored. These vessels employed a new naval design to try to offset the large number of ships available to the Federal Navy. The book lists the various ironclads commissioned (or being built) and provides rare photos and drawings of these ships. Original artwork enhances this product. The only weakness in the volume is that it doesn't really discuss whether the design had a basis in European thought or if the design was solely the result of Confederate naval architects.I recently visited Kinston NC and saw the full-scale replica of the CSS Neuse there. I wish I had read this book first as I think I would have better appreciated it's design and story.

This is one of several slim volumes devoted to the history of the earliest American iron-clad warships. This volume focuses on the Confederate states approach to developing iron covered ships to aid in their efforts to break the Union naval blockade. The book is full of interesting information on all aspects of the development of Confederate style of early iron-armored battle ships - including not only the original 'Merrimack/Virginia' but also an array of fascinating variations on the theme. The illustrations are particularly nice featuring rare archival photos, period engravings, cut-a-way drawings of the interior workings, and specially commissioned paintings. Highly recommended for those interested in these unusual early fighting ships.

Excellent reference.