James Hamilton Tomb (surname also shown as Tombs), born Florida, 1839; declined appointment as engineer in the United State Navy, April 23, 1861; appointed 3rd assistant engineer, Confederate States Navy, June 21, 1861; captured on the Mississippi River, April, 1862; confined Fort Warren, Boston Harbor; 1st assistant engineer commanding CSS DAVID (described as a "cigar torpedo steamer"), 1864; appointed chief engineer, Provisional Navy, January 7, 1864, to rank from October 5, 1863; attempted, unsuccessfully, to destroy the USS MEMPHIS, off Charleston, South Carolina, March 5, 1864; served in the Brazilian Navy, 1866-1867; also served, post war, on the Norfolk and Western Railroad; died 1929; buried Evergreen Cemetery, Jacksonville, Florida.
************************************************
OFFICAL NOTICE
Headquarters
Department of South Carolina, GA. and FLA.,
Charleston, S.C., October 28, 1863
(General Orders No. 169)
THE COMMANDING GENERAL FEELS IT HIS DUTY to publish to the forces and the country the names of the stout-hearted officers and men of the Confederate States Navy, who, on the night of the 5th Instant, assailed, and so nearly destroyed the United States iron-clad steam frigate "New Ironsides," at her moorings off Morris Island. Lieutenant WM. T. GLASSELL, Acting Assistant Engineer, J.H. TOOMBS, Pilot WM. CANNON, Fireman JAMES SULLIVAN, were volunteers for the service which they executed with a skill and coolness commensurate with their daring. Their country cannot forget their brave endeavor though unsuccessful, and it will surely inspire officers and men of both arms of the service to emulate them.
They have shown what four resolute men can accomplish. The example must not be barren.
By command of General Beauregard.
Thomas Jordan, Chief of Staff
(Official:) JNO. M. Otey, A.A. General
October 31
The Charleston Mercury * Saturday * 31 Oct 1863
************************************************
(From the Charleston Courier)
A GALLANT NAVAL EXPLOIT
One of the most daring and gallant naval exploits of the war, distinguished by the greatest coolness, presence of mind and intrepidity of the brave men associated in the enterprise, was performed Monday night. This was no less than an attempt to blow up the United States steamer New Ironsides, lying off Morris' Island. Though not fully meeting the expectations of those who conceived the plan, and those who carried it into execution, it has called forth the unbounded admiration of our citizens for the brilliant heroism of the actors in their dangerous but patriotic and self sacrificing undertaking. A general feeling of deep anxiety prevails to learn the fate of two of the gallant spirits who went out with this expedition. There is every reason to believe, however, that these gallant men, with the means of safety about their persons, endeavored to reach shore and have been picked up by some of the enemy's launches. We gather the following particulars from other participants in the affair:
The torpedo steamer David, with a crew of four volunteers, consisted of Lieut. Wm. T. Glassell, J.H. Toombs, Chief Engineer, and James Sullivan, fireman of the gunboat, Chicoro, with J.W. Cannon, Assistant Pilot of the gunboat, Palmetto State, left South Atlantic wharf between 6 and 7 o'clock on Monday evening, for the purpose of running out to the Ironsides, exploding a torpedo under that vessel near amid ship, and if possible blow her up.
The weather being dark and hazy favored the enterprise. The boat, with the gallant little crew, proceeded down the harbor, skirting along the shoals on the inside of the channel until nearly abreast of their formidable antagonist, the New Ironsides.
They remained in this position for a short time, circling around on the large shoal near the anchorage of the object of their visit. Lt. Glassell, with a double barrel gun, sat in front of Pilot Cannon, who had charge of the helm. Chief Engineer Toombs, was at the engine, with the brave and undaunted Sullivan, the volunteer fireman, when something like the following conversation ensued:
Lieut. Glassell - "It is now 9 o'clock, shall we strike her:"
Pilot Cannon - "That is what we cam for, I am ready."
Engineer Toombs - "Let us go at her, then, and do our best."
Sullivan, Fireman - "I am with you all, and waiting. Go ahead."
The boat was now put bow on and armed directly for the Ironsides. As the little steamer darted forward the lookout on the Ironsides hailed them with "Take care, there, you will run into us. What steamer is that?" Lieut. Glassel replied by discharging one barrel at the Yankee sentinel, and tendering the gun to Pilot Cannon, told him there was another Yankee, pointing to one with his body half over the bulwarks, and asked Cannon to take care of him with the other barrel.
The next moment they had struck the Ironsides, and exploded the torpedo about fifteen feet from the keel on the starboard side. An immense volume of water was thrown up, covering our little boat, and going through the smoke stack, entered the furnace, and completely extinguished the fire.
In addition to this, pieces of the ballast had fallen in the works of the engine, rendering it unmanageable at that time. Volley after volley of musketry from the crew of the Ironsides and from the launches began to pour it upon them. Lt. Glassell gave the order to back, but it was found impossible. In this condition, with no shelter and ho hope of escape, they though it best to surrender and hailed the enemy to that effect. The Yankees, however, paid no attention to the call, but barbarously continued the fire. It was then proposed to put on their life preservers, jump overboard and endeavor to swim to shore. All but Pilot Cannon consented. The latter, being unable to swim, said he would stay and take his chances in the boat. Lieut. Glassell, Engineer Toombs and Sullivan, the fireman, left the boat. The two first having on life preservers, and the latter supporting himself on one of the hatches thrown to him by the pilot. Engineer Toombs becoming embarrassed with his clothing in the water got back to the boat and was assisted in by Cannon.
The boat was rapidly drifting from the Ironsides. He now fortunately found a match and lighting a torch crept back to the engine, discovered and removed the cause of its not working and soon got it in order. Engineer Toombs and Cannon reached their wharf in the city about midnight, fatigued and presenting a worn-out appearance, but rejoicing at their fortunate and narrow escape.
With regard to the damage of the Ironsides nothing positive is known. At the moment of striking there was great consternation on board. It was reported that the crew in gangs were hard at work at the pumps all day yesterday. Small boats were seen constantly passing between the Ironsides and the Monitors. At nightfall, however, she remained at her old anchorage.
The Macon Daily Telegraph * Saturday * 10 Oct 1863
************************************************
U.S., Civil War Soldier Records and Profiles, 1861-1865
Name: James Hamilton Tomb
Enlistment Age: 22
Birth Date: 16 Mar 1839
Birth Place: Savannah, Georgia
Enlistment Date: 15 Apr 1861
Enlistment Rank: 3rd Assistant Engineer
Muster Date: 15 Apr 1861
Muster Place: Florida
Muster Regiment: Navy
Muster Information: Commission
Rank Change Date: 15 Sep 1862
Rank Change Rank: 2nd Asst Engineer
Rank Change Information: Estimated Day
Imprisonment Date: 20 Apr 1862
Imprisonment Place: New Orleans, Louisiana
Imprisonment Information: Estimated Day
Side of War: Confederacy
Survived War? Yes
Ship: CSS David
Residence Place: New Berlin, Florida
Last Known Residence Place: St Louis, MO & Jacksonville, Florida
Death Date: 25 May 1929
Death Place: Jacksonville, Florida
Occupation: Engineer
Notes: 1862-04-25 Confined, (Fort Warren, MA), Estimated day, exchanged
Additional Notes: 2 Rank Change 2 Date: 15 Aug 1863; Rank Change 2 Rank: Assistant Engineer; Rank Change 2 Information: Estimated day; Rank Change 3 Date: 15 Jun 1864; Rank Change 3 Rank: Chief Engineer; Rank Change 3 Information: Estimated day; Ship 2: CSS Louisiana Ship 3: CSS Chicora
************************************************
Obituary
CAPTAIN J.H. TOMB DIES
******************************
Veteran of Confederate Navy Expires in Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, FLA., May 25 - Capt. James H. Tomb, 90, who claimed he designed the Confederate torpedo boat David, which figured in a battle with the U.S.S New Ironsides in Charleston Harbor during the Civil War, died at his home here today.
Tomb was born in Florida in 1839 and at the age of 21 joined the Confederate Navy. During his enlistment he claimed he designed the David, which attacked and exploded a spar-torpedo against the New Ironsides at Charleston in 1863, but did little damage.
Two sons, Harvey and W.V. Tomb, both retired naval survive.
The Macon Telegraph * Sunday * 26 May 1929 * Page 6
************************************************
OFFICAL NOTICE
Headquarters
Department of South Carolina, GA. and FLA.,
Charleston, S.C., October 28, 1863
(General Orders No. 169)
THE COMMANDING GENERAL FEELS IT HIS DUTY to publish to the forces and the country the names of the stout-hearted officers and men of the Confederate States Navy, who, on the night of the 5th Instant, assailed, and so nearly destroyed the United States iron-clad steam frigate "New Ironsides," at her moorings off Morris Island. Lieutenant WM. T. GLASSELL, Acting Assistant Engineer, J.H. TOOMBS, Pilot WM. CANNON, Fireman JAMES SULLIVAN, were volunteers for the service which they executed with a skill and coolness commensurate with their daring. Their country cannot forget their brave endeavor though unsuccessful, and it will surely inspire officers and men of both arms of the service to emulate them.
They have shown what four resolute men can accomplish. The example must not be barren.
By command of General Beauregard.
Thomas Jordan, Chief of Staff
(Official:) JNO. M. Otey, A.A. General
October 31
The Charleston Mercury * Saturday * 31 Oct 1863
************************************************
(From the Charleston Courier)
A GALLANT NAVAL EXPLOIT
One of the most daring and gallant naval exploits of the war, distinguished by the greatest coolness, presence of mind and intrepidity of the brave men associated in the enterprise, was performed Monday night. This was no less than an attempt to blow up the United States steamer New Ironsides, lying off Morris' Island. Though not fully meeting the expectations of those who conceived the plan, and those who carried it into execution, it has called forth the unbounded admiration of our citizens for the brilliant heroism of the actors in their dangerous but patriotic and self sacrificing undertaking. A general feeling of deep anxiety prevails to learn the fate of two of the gallant spirits who went out with this expedition. There is every reason to believe, however, that these gallant men, with the means of safety about their persons, endeavored to reach shore and have been picked up by some of the enemy's launches. We gather the following particulars from other participants in the affair:
The torpedo steamer David, with a crew of four volunteers, consisted of Lieut. Wm. T. Glassell, J.H. Toombs, Chief Engineer, and James Sullivan, fireman of the gunboat, Chicoro, with J.W. Cannon, Assistant Pilot of the gunboat, Palmetto State, left South Atlantic wharf between 6 and 7 o'clock on Monday evening, for the purpose of running out to the Ironsides, exploding a torpedo under that vessel near amid ship, and if possible blow her up.
The weather being dark and hazy favored the enterprise. The boat, with the gallant little crew, proceeded down the harbor, skirting along the shoals on the inside of the channel until nearly abreast of their formidable antagonist, the New Ironsides.
They remained in this position for a short time, circling around on the large shoal near the anchorage of the object of their visit. Lt. Glassell, with a double barrel gun, sat in front of Pilot Cannon, who had charge of the helm. Chief Engineer Toombs, was at the engine, with the brave and undaunted Sullivan, the volunteer fireman, when something like the following conversation ensued:
Lieut. Glassell - "It is now 9 o'clock, shall we strike her:"
Pilot Cannon - "That is what we cam for, I am ready."
Engineer Toombs - "Let us go at her, then, and do our best."
Sullivan, Fireman - "I am with you all, and waiting. Go ahead."
The boat was now put bow on and armed directly for the Ironsides. As the little steamer darted forward the lookout on the Ironsides hailed them with "Take care, there, you will run into us. What steamer is that?" Lieut. Glassel replied by discharging one barrel at the Yankee sentinel, and tendering the gun to Pilot Cannon, told him there was another Yankee, pointing to one with his body half over the bulwarks, and asked Cannon to take care of him with the other barrel.
The next moment they had struck the Ironsides, and exploded the torpedo about fifteen feet from the keel on the starboard side. An immense volume of water was thrown up, covering our little boat, and going through the smoke stack, entered the furnace, and completely extinguished the fire.
In addition to this, pieces of the ballast had fallen in the works of the engine, rendering it unmanageable at that time. Volley after volley of musketry from the crew of the Ironsides and from the launches began to pour it upon them. Lt. Glassell gave the order to back, but it was found impossible. In this condition, with no shelter and ho hope of escape, they though it best to surrender and hailed the enemy to that effect. The Yankees, however, paid no attention to the call, but barbarously continued the fire. It was then proposed to put on their life preservers, jump overboard and endeavor to swim to shore. All but Pilot Cannon consented. The latter, being unable to swim, said he would stay and take his chances in the boat. Lieut. Glassell, Engineer Toombs and Sullivan, the fireman, left the boat. The two first having on life preservers, and the latter supporting himself on one of the hatches thrown to him by the pilot. Engineer Toombs becoming embarrassed with his clothing in the water got back to the boat and was assisted in by Cannon.
The boat was rapidly drifting from the Ironsides. He now fortunately found a match and lighting a torch crept back to the engine, discovered and removed the cause of its not working and soon got it in order. Engineer Toombs and Cannon reached their wharf in the city about midnight, fatigued and presenting a worn-out appearance, but rejoicing at their fortunate and narrow escape.
With regard to the damage of the Ironsides nothing positive is known. At the moment of striking there was great consternation on board. It was reported that the crew in gangs were hard at work at the pumps all day yesterday. Small boats were seen constantly passing between the Ironsides and the Monitors. At nightfall, however, she remained at her old anchorage.
The Macon Daily Telegraph * Saturday * 10 Oct 1863
************************************************
U.S., Civil War Soldier Records and Profiles, 1861-1865
Name: James Hamilton Tomb
Enlistment Age: 22
Birth Date: 16 Mar 1839
Birth Place: Savannah, Georgia
Enlistment Date: 15 Apr 1861
Enlistment Rank: 3rd Assistant Engineer
Muster Date: 15 Apr 1861
Muster Place: Florida
Muster Regiment: Navy
Muster Information: Commission
Rank Change Date: 15 Sep 1862
Rank Change Rank: 2nd Asst Engineer
Rank Change Information: Estimated Day
Imprisonment Date: 20 Apr 1862
Imprisonment Place: New Orleans, Louisiana
Imprisonment Information: Estimated Day
Side of War: Confederacy
Survived War? Yes
Ship: CSS David
Residence Place: New Berlin, Florida
Last Known Residence Place: St Louis, MO & Jacksonville, Florida
Death Date: 25 May 1929
Death Place: Jacksonville, Florida
Occupation: Engineer
Notes: 1862-04-25 Confined, (Fort Warren, MA), Estimated day, exchanged
Additional Notes: 2 Rank Change 2 Date: 15 Aug 1863; Rank Change 2 Rank: Assistant Engineer; Rank Change 2 Information: Estimated day; Rank Change 3 Date: 15 Jun 1864; Rank Change 3 Rank: Chief Engineer; Rank Change 3 Information: Estimated day; Ship 2: CSS Louisiana Ship 3: CSS Chicora
************************************************
Obituary
CAPTAIN J.H. TOMB DIES
******************************
Veteran of Confederate Navy Expires in Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, FLA., May 25 - Capt. James H. Tomb, 90, who claimed he designed the Confederate torpedo boat David, which figured in a battle with the U.S.S New Ironsides in Charleston Harbor during the Civil War, died at his home here today.
Tomb was born in Florida in 1839 and at the age of 21 joined the Confederate Navy. During his enlistment he claimed he designed the David, which attacked and exploded a spar-torpedo against the New Ironsides at Charleston in 1863, but did little damage.
Two sons, Harvey and W.V. Tomb, both retired naval survive.
The Macon Telegraph * Sunday * 26 May 1929 * Page 6
James Hamilton Tomb (surname also shown as Tombs), born Florida, 1839; declined appointment as engineer in the United State Navy, April 23, 1861; appointed 3rd assistant engineer, Confederate States Navy, June 21, 1861; captured on the Mississippi River, April, 1862; confined Fort Warren, Boston Harbor; 1st assistant engineer commanding CSS DAVID (described as a "cigar torpedo steamer"), 1864; appointed chief engineer, Provisional Navy, January 7, 1864, to rank from October 5, 1863; attempted, unsuccessfully, to destroy the USS MEMPHIS, off Charleston, South Carolina, March 5, 1864; served in the Brazilian Navy, 1866-1867; also served, post war, on the Norfolk and Western Railroad; died 1929; buried Evergreen Cemetery, Jacksonville, Florida.
************************************************
OFFICAL NOTICE
Headquarters
Department of South Carolina, GA. and FLA.,
Charleston, S.C., October 28, 1863
(General Orders No. 169)
THE COMMANDING GENERAL FEELS IT HIS DUTY to publish to the forces and the country the names of the stout-hearted officers and men of the Confederate States Navy, who, on the night of the 5th Instant, assailed, and so nearly destroyed the United States iron-clad steam frigate "New Ironsides," at her moorings off Morris Island. Lieutenant WM. T. GLASSELL, Acting Assistant Engineer, J.H. TOOMBS, Pilot WM. CANNON, Fireman JAMES SULLIVAN, were volunteers for the service which they executed with a skill and coolness commensurate with their daring. Their country cannot forget their brave endeavor though unsuccessful, and it will surely inspire officers and men of both arms of the service to emulate them.
They have shown what four resolute men can accomplish. The example must not be barren.
By command of General Beauregard.
Thomas Jordan, Chief of Staff
(Official:) JNO. M. Otey, A.A. General
October 31
The Charleston Mercury * Saturday * 31 Oct 1863
************************************************
(From the Charleston Courier)
A GALLANT NAVAL EXPLOIT
One of the most daring and gallant naval exploits of the war, distinguished by the greatest coolness, presence of mind and intrepidity of the brave men associated in the enterprise, was performed Monday night. This was no less than an attempt to blow up the United States steamer New Ironsides, lying off Morris' Island. Though not fully meeting the expectations of those who conceived the plan, and those who carried it into execution, it has called forth the unbounded admiration of our citizens for the brilliant heroism of the actors in their dangerous but patriotic and self sacrificing undertaking. A general feeling of deep anxiety prevails to learn the fate of two of the gallant spirits who went out with this expedition. There is every reason to believe, however, that these gallant men, with the means of safety about their persons, endeavored to reach shore and have been picked up by some of the enemy's launches. We gather the following particulars from other participants in the affair:
The torpedo steamer David, with a crew of four volunteers, consisted of Lieut. Wm. T. Glassell, J.H. Toombs, Chief Engineer, and James Sullivan, fireman of the gunboat, Chicoro, with J.W. Cannon, Assistant Pilot of the gunboat, Palmetto State, left South Atlantic wharf between 6 and 7 o'clock on Monday evening, for the purpose of running out to the Ironsides, exploding a torpedo under that vessel near amid ship, and if possible blow her up.
The weather being dark and hazy favored the enterprise. The boat, with the gallant little crew, proceeded down the harbor, skirting along the shoals on the inside of the channel until nearly abreast of their formidable antagonist, the New Ironsides.
They remained in this position for a short time, circling around on the large shoal near the anchorage of the object of their visit. Lt. Glassell, with a double barrel gun, sat in front of Pilot Cannon, who had charge of the helm. Chief Engineer Toombs, was at the engine, with the brave and undaunted Sullivan, the volunteer fireman, when something like the following conversation ensued:
Lieut. Glassell - "It is now 9 o'clock, shall we strike her:"
Pilot Cannon - "That is what we cam for, I am ready."
Engineer Toombs - "Let us go at her, then, and do our best."
Sullivan, Fireman - "I am with you all, and waiting. Go ahead."
The boat was now put bow on and armed directly for the Ironsides. As the little steamer darted forward the lookout on the Ironsides hailed them with "Take care, there, you will run into us. What steamer is that?" Lieut. Glassel replied by discharging one barrel at the Yankee sentinel, and tendering the gun to Pilot Cannon, told him there was another Yankee, pointing to one with his body half over the bulwarks, and asked Cannon to take care of him with the other barrel.
The next moment they had struck the Ironsides, and exploded the torpedo about fifteen feet from the keel on the starboard side. An immense volume of water was thrown up, covering our little boat, and going through the smoke stack, entered the furnace, and completely extinguished the fire.
In addition to this, pieces of the ballast had fallen in the works of the engine, rendering it unmanageable at that time. Volley after volley of musketry from the crew of the Ironsides and from the launches began to pour it upon them. Lt. Glassell gave the order to back, but it was found impossible. In this condition, with no shelter and ho hope of escape, they though it best to surrender and hailed the enemy to that effect. The Yankees, however, paid no attention to the call, but barbarously continued the fire. It was then proposed to put on their life preservers, jump overboard and endeavor to swim to shore. All but Pilot Cannon consented. The latter, being unable to swim, said he would stay and take his chances in the boat. Lieut. Glassell, Engineer Toombs and Sullivan, the fireman, left the boat. The two first having on life preservers, and the latter supporting himself on one of the hatches thrown to him by the pilot. Engineer Toombs becoming embarrassed with his clothing in the water got back to the boat and was assisted in by Cannon.
The boat was rapidly drifting from the Ironsides. He now fortunately found a match and lighting a torch crept back to the engine, discovered and removed the cause of its not working and soon got it in order. Engineer Toombs and Cannon reached their wharf in the city about midnight, fatigued and presenting a worn-out appearance, but rejoicing at their fortunate and narrow escape.
With regard to the damage of the Ironsides nothing positive is known. At the moment of striking there was great consternation on board. It was reported that the crew in gangs were hard at work at the pumps all day yesterday. Small boats were seen constantly passing between the Ironsides and the Monitors. At nightfall, however, she remained at her old anchorage.
The Macon Daily Telegraph * Saturday * 10 Oct 1863
************************************************
U.S., Civil War Soldier Records and Profiles, 1861-1865
Name: James Hamilton Tomb
Enlistment Age: 22
Birth Date: 16 Mar 1839
Birth Place: Savannah, Georgia
Enlistment Date: 15 Apr 1861
Enlistment Rank: 3rd Assistant Engineer
Muster Date: 15 Apr 1861
Muster Place: Florida
Muster Regiment: Navy
Muster Information: Commission
Rank Change Date: 15 Sep 1862
Rank Change Rank: 2nd Asst Engineer
Rank Change Information: Estimated Day
Imprisonment Date: 20 Apr 1862
Imprisonment Place: New Orleans, Louisiana
Imprisonment Information: Estimated Day
Side of War: Confederacy
Survived War? Yes
Ship: CSS David
Residence Place: New Berlin, Florida
Last Known Residence Place: St Louis, MO & Jacksonville, Florida
Death Date: 25 May 1929
Death Place: Jacksonville, Florida
Occupation: Engineer
Notes: 1862-04-25 Confined, (Fort Warren, MA), Estimated day, exchanged
Additional Notes: 2 Rank Change 2 Date: 15 Aug 1863; Rank Change 2 Rank: Assistant Engineer; Rank Change 2 Information: Estimated day; Rank Change 3 Date: 15 Jun 1864; Rank Change 3 Rank: Chief Engineer; Rank Change 3 Information: Estimated day; Ship 2: CSS Louisiana Ship 3: CSS Chicora
************************************************
Obituary
CAPTAIN J.H. TOMB DIES
******************************
Veteran of Confederate Navy Expires in Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, FLA., May 25 - Capt. James H. Tomb, 90, who claimed he designed the Confederate torpedo boat David, which figured in a battle with the U.S.S New Ironsides in Charleston Harbor during the Civil War, died at his home here today.
Tomb was born in Florida in 1839 and at the age of 21 joined the Confederate Navy. During his enlistment he claimed he designed the David, which attacked and exploded a spar-torpedo against the New Ironsides at Charleston in 1863, but did little damage.
Two sons, Harvey and W.V. Tomb, both retired naval survive.
The Macon Telegraph * Sunday * 26 May 1929 * Page 6
************************************************
OFFICAL NOTICE
Headquarters
Department of South Carolina, GA. and FLA.,
Charleston, S.C., October 28, 1863
(General Orders No. 169)
THE COMMANDING GENERAL FEELS IT HIS DUTY to publish to the forces and the country the names of the stout-hearted officers and men of the Confederate States Navy, who, on the night of the 5th Instant, assailed, and so nearly destroyed the United States iron-clad steam frigate "New Ironsides," at her moorings off Morris Island. Lieutenant WM. T. GLASSELL, Acting Assistant Engineer, J.H. TOOMBS, Pilot WM. CANNON, Fireman JAMES SULLIVAN, were volunteers for the service which they executed with a skill and coolness commensurate with their daring. Their country cannot forget their brave endeavor though unsuccessful, and it will surely inspire officers and men of both arms of the service to emulate them.
They have shown what four resolute men can accomplish. The example must not be barren.
By command of General Beauregard.
Thomas Jordan, Chief of Staff
(Official:) JNO. M. Otey, A.A. General
October 31
The Charleston Mercury * Saturday * 31 Oct 1863
************************************************
(From the Charleston Courier)
A GALLANT NAVAL EXPLOIT
One of the most daring and gallant naval exploits of the war, distinguished by the greatest coolness, presence of mind and intrepidity of the brave men associated in the enterprise, was performed Monday night. This was no less than an attempt to blow up the United States steamer New Ironsides, lying off Morris' Island. Though not fully meeting the expectations of those who conceived the plan, and those who carried it into execution, it has called forth the unbounded admiration of our citizens for the brilliant heroism of the actors in their dangerous but patriotic and self sacrificing undertaking. A general feeling of deep anxiety prevails to learn the fate of two of the gallant spirits who went out with this expedition. There is every reason to believe, however, that these gallant men, with the means of safety about their persons, endeavored to reach shore and have been picked up by some of the enemy's launches. We gather the following particulars from other participants in the affair:
The torpedo steamer David, with a crew of four volunteers, consisted of Lieut. Wm. T. Glassell, J.H. Toombs, Chief Engineer, and James Sullivan, fireman of the gunboat, Chicoro, with J.W. Cannon, Assistant Pilot of the gunboat, Palmetto State, left South Atlantic wharf between 6 and 7 o'clock on Monday evening, for the purpose of running out to the Ironsides, exploding a torpedo under that vessel near amid ship, and if possible blow her up.
The weather being dark and hazy favored the enterprise. The boat, with the gallant little crew, proceeded down the harbor, skirting along the shoals on the inside of the channel until nearly abreast of their formidable antagonist, the New Ironsides.
They remained in this position for a short time, circling around on the large shoal near the anchorage of the object of their visit. Lt. Glassell, with a double barrel gun, sat in front of Pilot Cannon, who had charge of the helm. Chief Engineer Toombs, was at the engine, with the brave and undaunted Sullivan, the volunteer fireman, when something like the following conversation ensued:
Lieut. Glassell - "It is now 9 o'clock, shall we strike her:"
Pilot Cannon - "That is what we cam for, I am ready."
Engineer Toombs - "Let us go at her, then, and do our best."
Sullivan, Fireman - "I am with you all, and waiting. Go ahead."
The boat was now put bow on and armed directly for the Ironsides. As the little steamer darted forward the lookout on the Ironsides hailed them with "Take care, there, you will run into us. What steamer is that?" Lieut. Glassel replied by discharging one barrel at the Yankee sentinel, and tendering the gun to Pilot Cannon, told him there was another Yankee, pointing to one with his body half over the bulwarks, and asked Cannon to take care of him with the other barrel.
The next moment they had struck the Ironsides, and exploded the torpedo about fifteen feet from the keel on the starboard side. An immense volume of water was thrown up, covering our little boat, and going through the smoke stack, entered the furnace, and completely extinguished the fire.
In addition to this, pieces of the ballast had fallen in the works of the engine, rendering it unmanageable at that time. Volley after volley of musketry from the crew of the Ironsides and from the launches began to pour it upon them. Lt. Glassell gave the order to back, but it was found impossible. In this condition, with no shelter and ho hope of escape, they though it best to surrender and hailed the enemy to that effect. The Yankees, however, paid no attention to the call, but barbarously continued the fire. It was then proposed to put on their life preservers, jump overboard and endeavor to swim to shore. All but Pilot Cannon consented. The latter, being unable to swim, said he would stay and take his chances in the boat. Lieut. Glassell, Engineer Toombs and Sullivan, the fireman, left the boat. The two first having on life preservers, and the latter supporting himself on one of the hatches thrown to him by the pilot. Engineer Toombs becoming embarrassed with his clothing in the water got back to the boat and was assisted in by Cannon.
The boat was rapidly drifting from the Ironsides. He now fortunately found a match and lighting a torch crept back to the engine, discovered and removed the cause of its not working and soon got it in order. Engineer Toombs and Cannon reached their wharf in the city about midnight, fatigued and presenting a worn-out appearance, but rejoicing at their fortunate and narrow escape.
With regard to the damage of the Ironsides nothing positive is known. At the moment of striking there was great consternation on board. It was reported that the crew in gangs were hard at work at the pumps all day yesterday. Small boats were seen constantly passing between the Ironsides and the Monitors. At nightfall, however, she remained at her old anchorage.
The Macon Daily Telegraph * Saturday * 10 Oct 1863
************************************************
U.S., Civil War Soldier Records and Profiles, 1861-1865
Name: James Hamilton Tomb
Enlistment Age: 22
Birth Date: 16 Mar 1839
Birth Place: Savannah, Georgia
Enlistment Date: 15 Apr 1861
Enlistment Rank: 3rd Assistant Engineer
Muster Date: 15 Apr 1861
Muster Place: Florida
Muster Regiment: Navy
Muster Information: Commission
Rank Change Date: 15 Sep 1862
Rank Change Rank: 2nd Asst Engineer
Rank Change Information: Estimated Day
Imprisonment Date: 20 Apr 1862
Imprisonment Place: New Orleans, Louisiana
Imprisonment Information: Estimated Day
Side of War: Confederacy
Survived War? Yes
Ship: CSS David
Residence Place: New Berlin, Florida
Last Known Residence Place: St Louis, MO & Jacksonville, Florida
Death Date: 25 May 1929
Death Place: Jacksonville, Florida
Occupation: Engineer
Notes: 1862-04-25 Confined, (Fort Warren, MA), Estimated day, exchanged
Additional Notes: 2 Rank Change 2 Date: 15 Aug 1863; Rank Change 2 Rank: Assistant Engineer; Rank Change 2 Information: Estimated day; Rank Change 3 Date: 15 Jun 1864; Rank Change 3 Rank: Chief Engineer; Rank Change 3 Information: Estimated day; Ship 2: CSS Louisiana Ship 3: CSS Chicora
************************************************
Obituary
CAPTAIN J.H. TOMB DIES
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Veteran of Confederate Navy Expires in Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, FLA., May 25 - Capt. James H. Tomb, 90, who claimed he designed the Confederate torpedo boat David, which figured in a battle with the U.S.S New Ironsides in Charleston Harbor during the Civil War, died at his home here today.
Tomb was born in Florida in 1839 and at the age of 21 joined the Confederate Navy. During his enlistment he claimed he designed the David, which attacked and exploded a spar-torpedo against the New Ironsides at Charleston in 1863, but did little damage.
Two sons, Harvey and W.V. Tomb, both retired naval survive.
The Macon Telegraph * Sunday * 26 May 1929 * Page 6
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