Wythe in Hampton, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
First Battle of Ironclads
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 11, 2008
1. First Battle of Ironclads Marker
In Hampton Roads, southward and a mile or two offshore, the Virginia (Merrimac) and the Monitor fought their engagement, March 9, 1862. The day before the Virginia destroyed the Cumberland and Congress, wooden ships of Union Navy.Erected 1938 by Virginia Conservation Commission. (Marker Number W-84.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Notable Events • War, US Civil • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the Virginia Department of Historic Resources series list. A significant historical date for this entry is March 9, 1862.
Location. 37° 0.151′ N, 76° 21.662′ W. Marker is in Hampton, Virginia. It is in Wythe. Marker is at the intersection of Chesapeake Avenue (Virginia Route 167) and East Avenue, on the left when traveling west on Chesapeake Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Hampton VA 23661, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Stalemate in Hampton Roads (here, next to this marker); Fertile Hunting Grounds For The Indians (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Development Of Olde Wythe
this page online
Also see . . .
1. The Battle of the Ironclads, 1862. First hand account of the battle between the Monitor and the Virginia from EyeWitness to History.com. (Submitted on August 11, 2008, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)
2. Showdown at Hampton Roads. Civil War Traveler – Virginia – Tidewater. (Submitted on August 11, 2008, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)
3. Photos of Ironclads. A number of photos of the Civil War Ironclads - among other items. (Submitted on August 12, 2008, by Al Wolf of Veedersburg, Indiana.)
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 11, 2008
2. Marker on the Chesapeake Bay
On March 8, 1862, the C.S.S. Virginia, a Confederate ironclad ram, attacked several Union ships in Hampton Roads. The Virginia sank the U.S.S.Cumberland, heavily damaged the U.S.S. Congress and ran the U.S.S. Minnesota aground while suffering little damage to itself.
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 11, 2008
3. Hampton Roads Markers
Two markers are found at this site on the Newport News waterfront.
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 11, 2008
4. Ironclads Markers on the Chesapeake
When the Virginia returned to finish off the Minnesota, it was met by the U.S.S. Monitor, a Union ironclad. The two fought to a standstill, but both sides claimed victory.
Chromolithograph by Kurz & Allison, 1889
5. Battle between the Monitor and Merrimac--fought March 9th 1862 at Hampton Roads...
Print shows a battle scene between the ironclads Monitor and Merrimac just offshore, also shows a Union ship sinking and rescue boats being put to sea from shore, as well as a Union artillery bunker, Union soldiers and officers, and some rescued sailors. -- Library of Congress
Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 11, 2008, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 1,579 times since then and 51 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 11, 2008, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. 5. submitted on October 7, 2015.
