CSS Scorpion

CSS Scorpion was a Squib-class torpedo boat[?] procured late in 1864 by the Confederate States Navy[?] and armed with a spar torpedo fitted to her stem. She performed picket duty in the James River under command of Lieutenant E. Lakin, CSN.

On January 23 to January 25, 1865, torpedo boats Scorpion, CSS Hornet[?], and CSS Wasp[?], under overall command of Lieutenant C.W. Read, CSN, joined Flag Officer J.K. Mitchell's James River Squadron in the abortive attack on General Grant's main supply base at City Point, Virginia[?]. Attempting to rejoin her consort, ironclad Richmond[?], aground above Trent's Reach, Scorpion ended up fast ashore also and was severely damaged by the magazine explosion which destroyed nearby gunboat CSS Drewry[?], January 24. Abandoned, she fell into Federal hands.

See also USS Scorpion and HMS Scorpion.

General Characteristics

• Length: 46 feet
• Beam: 6'3"
• Draft: 3'9"
• Armament: one five-inch, 18-foot spar with percussion torpedo