A Shot in the Dark: Assessing the Navigational Capabilities of H.L. Hunley

Summary

Early submarines faced many logistical challenges, one of them being the ability to steer and navigate while submerged. The Civil War submarine H.L. Hunley was no exception to this problem. Hunley’s depth and direction while in operation were the responsibility of its captain, who sat in the forward most crew station and, according to the historical and archaeological record, determined the vessel’s course based on a compass and dead reckoning.  Recent archaeological study has begun to reconstruct the function of Hunley’s steering, navigational, and propulsion equipment, revealing a complex system with multiple components. The combat submarine’s operations demonstrate both continuity from previous submarines as well as unique features that were likely incorporated as adaptations to Hunley’s specific construction.  This paper will examine these different elements and the questions they raise about the submarine’s navigational, steering, and propulsion capabilities, particularly regarding its ability to maintain its course while submerged.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Paper / Report Submission (General Sessions) 2018   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2018

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 306