Battle of Galveston Observed

Especially of interest because of the work on the sunken USS Westfield and raising of the Dahlgren cannon in the last months.

The Galveston Historical Foundation will be offering tours both on land and sea to commemorate the upcoming anniversary of the Battle of Galveston which occurred January 1, 1863.

Galveston had been held by Union forces since October 1862, but a joint Confederate land and sea attack this date took it back and Galveston remained under Confederate control for the rest of the war.

A Confederate fleet, including ships protected by bales of cotton called cottonclads attacked the 8 ship Union fleet, driving it off with the loss of the Harriet Land and destruction of the Westfield. Union losses in the battle were 150 casualties. Confederates 26 killed and 117 wounded.

Tours will include walking, a cemetery, driving and harbor ones.

The tours will be held January 8th to 10th.

Probably Warmer Than Here in Illinois As Well. --Old B-Runner