Description
The collection consists of two log books and a small amount of related papers from Union naval Flag Officer William McKean,
captain of the USS
Niagara and commander of the Gulf Blockading Squadron from 1861 to 1862.
Background
William Wister McKean (1800-1865) was an officer in the United States Navy. He was appointed midshipman in 1814, rose through
the ranks to become a flag officer, and served through the beginnings of the Civil War. McKean was notable for his command
of the Union's Gulf and East Gulf Blockading Squadrons (appointed Commander 22 September 1861 to 20 January 1862, and 20 January
1862 to 3 June 1862, respectively), which closed Confederate seaports and seized blockade-running ships. He was released from
active duty in June 1862.