Old War Horse

Discover the fascinating journey of the Benton in Myron J. Smith's captivating book, Old War Horse. Published by McFarland & Co Inc in 2024, this engaging paperback spans 264 pages and delves into the unique prewar history of this remarkable snagboat, originally designed by the renowned James B. Eads as a catamaran salvage vessel.

As the flagship of the Union's Civil War Western river navy, the Benton endured a tumultuous government acquisition process and underwent significant transformation. This insightful profile unveils little-known details of her storied prewar and wartime career, making it an essential read for history enthusiasts and naval warfare aficionados alike.

Join Myron J. Smith on this enlightening exploration of a vessel that played a crucial role in shaping naval history during one of America's most challenging times.