Boys for the Navy – United States Training Ship “Minnesota”

The life of a sailor aboard the U.S.S. Minnesota in 1878.

This fine pair of woodcut prints was published in New York as part of the April 27, 1878 edition of Harper’s Weekly magazine. Each sheet presents several scenes of “boys in the navy” aboard the U.S.S. Minnesota. Gunnery, evidently a priority, is highlighted in the primary image on both, while surrounding vignettes illustrate other aspects of day-to-day life; including portraits of officers, a view of the sick bay, training exercises, and scenes of amusement.

The ship was launched in 1855 and participated in several engagements during the Civil War. Most notably, the Minnesota was heavily damaged by the Virginia during the Battle of Hampton Roads, but was saved from destruction by the timely appearance of the Monitor.