by Bob Comet
Categories:
- Build type: [Scratch]
- Subject Type: [Torpedo Boat]
- Era: [1815-1914]
- Nationality: [United States]
- Propulsion: [Propeller] [Reciprocating Steam]
About the Vessel
USS Winslow (Torpedo Boat No. 5/TB-5) was a United States Navy torpedo boat launched on 8 May 1897 at the Columbian Iron Works, Baltimore, Maryland.
She is noted for her involvement in the Spanish–American War.
She and the revenue cutter Hudson escorted USS Wilmington into Cárdenas harbor in search of Spanish vessels. Winslow was ordered forward to evaluate a potential enemy combatant, and a one hour and 20 minute artillery duel ensued. She fought alone until Wilmington and Hudson were in position to engage. Winslow was heavily damaged, and lacking one of her engines and no capability to stear, she had to be towed from the harbor by Hudson.
In the conflict, Ensign Worth Bagley was killed, the first naval officer lost in the war. In his memory, four ships of the US Navy have carried the name USS Bagley.
