US Navy 100-Pounder Parrott Rifle of USS Galena in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania

May 14

US Navy 100-Pounder Parrott Rifle Number 10 of USS Galena is displayed in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania

US Navy 100-Pounder Parrott Rifle Number 10 is displayed in a cemetery in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania. It was manufactured by West Point Foundry in 1862 and weighs 9.866 pounds.

Many, many thanks to friend of the page James Murray for twice visiting this site to photograph Number 10.

Number 10 is recorded as being carried aboard the ironclad USS Galena during her first commission in 1862-1863. Galena was an experimental ship whose 3-inch armor composed of interlocking iron bars proved ineffective during her first major battle with Fort Darling at Drewry’s Bluff on May 15th, 1862. Despite taking heavy damage and a significant number of casualties, USS Galena did not withdraw from the fight until she had very nearly emptied her magazine firing upon the fortifications. Her captain, Commander John Rodgers, praised the entire crew for their behavior in the hard fought battle. Three of the crew were awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions. USS Galena continued serving on the James through the coming months. She played an active role in the Battle of Malvern Hill, General McClellan being aboard at the time. In 1863 Galena was taken out of service for a refit into a (mostly) unarmored ship. Number 10 was removed at this time.

Number 10 features an interesting mix of Army and Navy markings. The registry number is marked on top of the barrel band as is expected for a Navy Parrott. However, the weight, year of manufacture, and foundry are marked on the muzzle as is found on Army Parrotts. Additionally, the “US” of the Army is found above the trunnions rather than the anchor of the Navy. Bureau of Ordnance Records note that Numbers 9 and 10 - both mounted on Galena - were of the “Army pattern.”