Lexington was originally built as a commercial steamer at Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania, in 1860.  She was purchased by the Federal government in June 1861 and converted into a woodclad gunboat.

In 1862, Lexington participated in the capture of Fort Henry, as well as supporting other operations on the Tennessee River, including the battle at Shiloh.  In 1863, she was present at the defense of Fort Donelson and the burning of Palmyra, Tennessee. She survived the war and was decommissioned in July 1865.

Specifications of USS Lexington:

Displacement: 448 tons
Length: 177 feet 7 inches
Beam: 36 feet 10 inches
Draft: 6 feet
Armament: 4 8-inch smooth bores; 2 32-pounders

  Federal Warships

Last update:  December 6, 2001