Ensign Arnett

A sailor from Seneca Falls had a rough fortnight to begin 1863. His ship was blown up during the Battle of Galveston on New Year’s Day; on the 11th his new ship was sunk by the CSS Alabama. Here’s some news that the young man had persevered his way to a promotion.

From a Seneca County, New York newspaper in March 1864:

Promoted.

We are pleased to learn of the promotion of JOHN P. ARNETT, of this village, who entered the Naval service some two years since as Acting Master’s Mate. He is now Ensign in the service.

there’s hope, boy (anonymous Powder monkey on U.S.S. New Hampshire off Charleston, S.C. c.1864)