The USS Planter, a steam-powered vessel constructed in South Carolina before the Civil War, transitioned from Confederate to Union control due to the daring actions of Robert Smalls, a slave. Smalls, serving as the ship's navigator, seized control in 1862 and maneuvered past Confederate defenses, ultimately surrendering the ship to Union forces. Equipped with a 32-pound main gun and a 24-pound howitzer, the Planter was designed for river and coastal operations, boasting dimensions of 147 feet in length, 30 feet in beam, and a draft of 3.8 feet.
Robert Smalls' courageous act not only secured his own freedom but also liberated the other slaves aboard the Planter. His delivery of vital intelligence to Union forces led to a failed attempt to capture Charleston. As a reward for his bravery, Smalls received $1,500 and later became the first black captain in the U.S. Navy, contributing significantly to the post-war advancement of black Americans.
Following the war, the USS Planter was repurposed for use by the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Pulaski in Georgia for local defense. Meanwhile, Smalls embarked on a political career, advocating for black rights and serving in various governmental roles, including the U.S. House of Representatives and the South Carolina state legislature. Despite its historical significance, the Planter met its end in 1876 when it sank due to a tow leak.
Year of Service: 1862
Origins: United States
Operator: Allied Powers; United States
Offshore Operations: Nearshore activities in support of Allied activities.
Flatten: The hull of the vessel is designed to operate in coastal/shallow water environments.
Length: 147. 0 feet (44.81 m)
Ray: 30.0 feet (9.14 m)
Draft: 3.8 feet (1.16 m)
Shift: 315 t
Installed Power: 2 x Non-condensing steam engines driving 1 x Sidewheel paddle.
Surface Speed: 10.0 kts (11.5 mph)
Range: 87 nm (100 mi | 161 km)
1 x 32-pounder long gun on deck. 1 x 24-pounder short gun.