AUE identifies the VALLEY CITY (formerly the USS VALLEY CITY)

[aue-mike]

Based on a previously unidentified shipwreck's machinery, dimensions, construction, and historical sinking position, we have tentatively identified the wreck of the steamer VALLEY CITY off the Florida Panhandle. The VALLEY CITY was a 138-foot long schooner-rigged steamer built in 1859 by T. Birely at Philadelphia. In 1861, she was purchased by the US Navy, and commissioned as the USS VALLEY CITY. She served in several campaigns off North Carolina and Virginia, and assisted in the evacuation of Washington, DC. During the siege of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Quarter Gunner John Davis was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism. His valor was documented in the publication “Medal of Honor, 1861-1949, The Navy":

Served on board the USS VALLEY CITY during action against rebel fort batteries and ships off Elizabeth City on February 10, 1862. When a shell from the shore penetrated the side and passed through the magazine, exploding outside the screen on the berth deck, several powder division protection bulkheads were torn to pieces and the forward part of the berth deck set on fire. Showing great presence of mind, Davis courageously covered a barrel of powder with his own body and prevented an explosion, while at the same time passing powder to provide the division on the upper deck while under fierce enemy fire.

After her service in the Civil War, the VALLEY CITY reentered merchant service. In January 1882, she was caught in a violent gale while en route from Tampa to Pensacola, which resulted in her eventual sinking. The entire crew evacuated the ship and landed safely in Pensacola.

Images of the wreck and information from our weekend's full adventures have been added to the AUE website.

Cheers,
Mike