USS Lexington (1861)

The USS Lexington was a timberclad gunboat in the United States Navy during the American Civil War. Constructed in 1861 at St. Louis, Missouri, the Lexington was originally a merchant steamer named the Alonzo Child. She was purchased by the U.S. Navy on June 11, 1861, and commissioned on June 17, 1861, with Commander Roger N. Stembel in command.

The Lexington played a crucial role in the early campaigns on the Western Rivers, particularly on the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers. Operating as part of the Western Gunboat Flotilla, she participated in numerous engagements, providing vital naval support to Union Army operations.

Notable actions included the bombardment of Confederate fortifications at Columbus, Kentucky, in the fall of 1861, and participation in the capture of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson in February 1862. The Lexington also supported operations during the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862, providing crucial artillery fire that helped to repel Confederate attacks.

Throughout the remainder of the war, the Lexington continued to patrol the Western Rivers, disrupting Confederate supply lines and protecting Union shipping. She participated in various skirmishes and engagements along the rivers.

Following the end of the Civil War, the USS Lexington was decommissioned on July 25, 1865, at Mound City, Illinois. She was subsequently sold on August 17, 1865. Her service contributed significantly to the Union's control of the Western Rivers, a key factor in the eventual Union victory.