last update Saturday, 17-Jul-2021 07:20:53 PDT

Welcome...

McLean Research Associates is dedicated to presenting little known facts about the US Navy in the Civil War, presentations on a myriad of astronomical topics,STEM workshops, and letterboxing.

In commemoration of the 160 years since the Civil War - or more appropriately in the vernacular of the day - The War of the Slaveholders' Rebellion - we are featuring a quote and picture of the day from the Naval Records

CSS Stonewall

Wed Aug 02 1865

RADM William Radford, Atlantic Squadron, writes SECNAV "I have the honor to enclose herewith the proposition of M. M. Gray for raising sunken rebel property in Charleston Harbor and its tributaries, together with additional articles, to which Mr. Gray agrees.
If these propositions should meet the views of the Department, will it be pleased to return them to me, and I will immediately enter into a contract with Mr. Gray for raising the sunken property."

RADM Henry K Thatcher, Gulf Squadron, writes LCDR Milton Haxtun, USS Mercedita from Key West "Enclosed is a copy of communication from Thomas Savage, U. S. vice-consul at Havana, representing that the interests of our countrymen at the city of San Domingo are seriously endangered. You will therefore proceed with the Mercedita under your command to the city of San Domingo and put yourself at once in communication with our commercial agent there, and take all necessary steps to protect the lives and property of American citizens at that place.
If on your arrival at San Domingo you are satisfied that the presence of a man-of-war is necessary, you will report to me at the earliest opportunity; but if you are satisfied that your presence there is not required, you will return to this anchorage and report to me the state of affairs."

RADM Samuel P Lee, Mississippi Squadron, writes CMDR J W Livingston, NAVSTA Mound City, "The following vessels have been put out of commission and are hereby turned over to you; the ironclads are laid up in each towhead chute above this station.
    Ironclads. - Benton, Carondelet, Chillicothe, Essex, Louisville, Mound City, Neosho, Ozark, Pittsburg, and Missouri.
    Rams. - Avenger and Vindicator. These rams are moored in the stream off this station.
    I enclose a complete descriptive muster roll of the men turned over with these vessels. The officers have been ordered to report to you and a list of them has been sent you. No men have been assigned to the Missouri, which is on the way; the men necessary for her care can be detailed from the receiving ship by you."

Teachers and Educators - we have several Civil War presentations covering the US Navy throughout the Civil War which include our portable museum, Submarines, and key naval and land battles. Check out our Civil War section for more details. We also have several presentations on astronomy for all age groups

validated!