They also saw several other transport boats loaded with troops heading down the river.
In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, I hope to chronicle the daily life of my great-great grandfather, William Fleming. He served with the 130th Illinois Infantry. I also have a great-great grandfather, William Henry Ellis, who served with the North Carolina Cavalry. Unfortunately, I do not have much information about his service, but perhaps I'll mix in some of his story in when time allows.
Important Information
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Sunday, March 29, 1863
Besides ironclads, the men of the 130th also encountered another kind of warlike vessel on the Mississippi River. These were called tinclads - ordinary steamboats protected with thin iron plating that was impervious to musket balls. These boats were armed with several light pieces of artillery and manned with a sharpshooters.