Both Union ships and Confederates along the shore mentioned seeing a blue light signalling an end of the mission. A lantern with thick lenses that would have sifted the light spectrum was found which might have appeared blue from a distance.
The USS Canadaigua rushed to aid the stricken Housatonic and it is thought the blue light might have been from it. Perhaps this ship also might have grazed the Hunley, disabling it so it couldn't surface. Inspection of the hull might just answer this question.
It is known that the Hunley would have to wait for the incoming tide to return to base. Perhaps Dixon miscalculated the oxygen supply and blacked out. A grappling hook was found near the wreck. Perhaps it was used as an anchor. If evidence of a rope is found, this might prove it.
Dixon's watch stopped at 8:23 PM. Even though Civil War time varied widely, it is known that the Housatonic was attacked about 20 minutes later. Maybe it had run down and Dixon hadn't noticed this close to the attack.
There is a theory the the concussion from the explosion knocked the crew out. Also, the Hunley might have miscalculated distance and surfaced too close to the Housatonic and causing the crew to be unable to replenish oxygen.
Monterey, Ca. Jan. 15, 2009, by Bruce Smith, AP.
Hoping a Lot of Mysteries Will Be Solved. --Old B-Runner
The Battle of Fort Fisher, N.C.
