Rediscovering the USS Alligator – The U.S. Navy's First Submarine

a look inside

This book recounts the unlikely story of the USS Alligator, a secret weapon of the American Civil War, and the efforts to resurrect its legacy in United States Naval history. It is a tale of serendipity, unfolding in the most unexpected places—the South Pacific and Paris. It follows a shoestring expedition braving the treacherous waters off Cape Hatteras in search of the mysterious submarine, where everything that can go wrong does.

The mission gains momentum with the making of a Discovery Science Channel film, Hunt for the USS Alligator: Navy’s First Sub, even as setbacks pile up in the infamous “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” With relentless passion, the searchers press on, confronting the brutal realities of scouring the vast ocean for a “needle in a haystack.” Their efforts, while not yielding the Alligator, uncover valuable lessons and inspire future explorers.

This story is both a cautionary tale and a call to action, capturing the enduring allure of the USS Alligator, a lost icon of U.S. Naval history that still waits to be discovered on the ocean floor.

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Reviews

Rediscovering the USS Alligator by Daniel J. Basta is a captivating exploration of history, technology, and human determination. The book chronicles the search for the USS Alligator, the U.S. Navy's first submarine, which was lost in a storm off Cape Hatteras in 1863. Basta masterfully melds historical research, personal anecdotes, and the challenges of modern marine exploration to tell the story of this enigmatic Civil War-era vessel. The narrative begins with the rediscovery of the Alligator’s plans in a forgotten box in Paris, a pivotal moment that reignited interest in the submarine's history. Basta explores the technological innovations of the Alligator, designed by Brutus de Villeroi, including its air purification system and lockout chamber for divers. These features highlight the submarine's advanced design for its time, making it a marvel of engineering and a symbol of innovation during the Civil War.

The book also recounts the expeditions to locate the Alligator, detailing the setbacks and triumphs faced by Team Alligator. From the challenges of operating in the unpredictable waters of Cape Hatteras to the use of cutting-edge technology like autonomous underwater vehicles and the Navy's NR1 research submarine, the search is both thrilling and humbling. Despite the team's inability to locate the Alligator, the journey highlights the power of collaboration and the enduring allure of historical mysteries. Daniel J. Basta's writing is engaging and informative, blending technical details with vivid storytelling. He brings to life the personalities involved in the search, from naval officers to marine archaeologists, and underscores the importance of preserving maritime heritage. The book also highlights the educational and cultural spinoffs of the project, including STEM programs and museum exhibits that continue to inspire new generations. Rediscovering the USS Alligator is a must-read for history enthusiasts, marine explorers, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of science and storytelling. It should be in every classroom as its educational value is immeasurable.

Carol Thompson

~Readers’ Favorite

~Review by: Douglas C. MacLeod, Jr.~

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