The Gunboat Philadelphia
Summary
This episode explores the history of the Gunboat Philadelphia, a Revolutionary War vessel lost at the Battle of Valcour Island in 1776. It details how Lorenzo Haglund discovered and salvaged the intact ship in 1935, leading to its preservation at the Smithsonian. Curators discuss how the battle’s strategic delay helped the American cause and highlight ongoing efforts to conserve the warship for its 250th anniversary.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The discovery of the Gunboat Philadelphia
Sponsors: Shortwave and Blueland
Strategic importance of Lake Champlain in the Revolution
The naval arms race and shipbuilding effort
Design and crew of the American gunboats
Training the militia and the approach of the British fleet
Benedict Arnold's strategy at Valcour Island
The Battle of Valcour Island and the sinking of the Philadelphia
The strategic victory: Delaying the British advance
Haglund's salvage operation and the ship's preservation
The Philadelphia at the Smithsonian and its legacy
Credits, preservation details, and closing remarks
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