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John A. Dahlgren
1809-1870
Dahlgren received his appointment as midshipman in 1826, and soon became known for his interest in ordnance and gunnery. While assigned to the Washington Navy Yard, he experimented with the pressures that developed inside guns when they were fired. He then translated his findings into new gun designs. His "Coke bottle"-shaped guns were lighter, stronger, and could fire heavier shot than existing guns.
Promoted to rear admiral in 1863, he led the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron during the Civil War. After the war, he commanded the South Pacific Squadron. He completed his career serving as Commandant of the Washington Navy Yard and Gun Factory -- the position he occupied at the outbreak of the war. |