It was built in Plymouth, NC, and launched in 1859 as the M. C. Etheridge, a two masted schooner of 144 tons, 92 feet long and beam of 24 feet.
Acquired by the Confederate Navy in 1862, armed with 32-pounder cannons, and placed under the command of Lt. F. M. Harris for the defense of North Carolina sounds and Roanoke Island. It was part of what the nine vessel group that became known as the Mosquito Fleet.
On February 6, 1862, Union forces under Gen. Burnside effected a landing on the island, but the Black Warrior did not participate because it was not a steamer and too far away. The rest of the Mosquito fleet was unsuccessful and retreated to Elizabeth City, where the Black Warrior was towed.
On February 10, 1862, the Black Warrior was burned to prevent capture.
Not Much of a Record. --B-R'er
The Battle of Fort Fisher, N.C.
