Turret Draining
- Marc Marsocci
- Aug 3, 2015
- 1 min read
The Monitor's rotating gun turret was an important technological advance in naval architecture and warfare. Its cylindrical frame was constructed of eight layers of 1" thick wrought iron plates strong enough to withstand enemy fire. The turret rotated to aim the two XI" Dahlgren shell guns and then rotated away after firing to protect the sailors inside from return fire. When the Monitor sank, the vessel flipped over and the turret fell upside down onto the seabed. As part of the conservation process, the turret is being drained today. Staff can view it from the observation deck!
Comments