Delving into the Deep: 13 Astonishing (& Valuable) Undersea Treasures That Will Amaze You.
10. The Hunley of HL
Current Estimated Value: $253,067 (Building Cost)
Years Absent: 1864
Rediscovered in: 1995 and Elevated in 2000
The H.L. Hunley holds the distinction of being the first combat submarine to successfully sink an enemy vessel, marking a significant moment in naval warfare history. Built during the American Civil War, this innovative submarine was utilized by the Confederacy in its efforts against Union forces. In 1864, the Hunley achieved a remarkable feat by sinking the USS Housatonic, a Union warship, using a torpedo mechanism. However, despite this victory, the Hunley tragically failed to return to its base after the attack, disappearing into the depths of history for over a century.
After years of speculation and search, the Hunley was rediscovered in 1995 and subsequently raised from the ocean floor in 2000. This recovery not only provided insights into the submarine's design and technology but also offered a glimpse into the lives of those who served aboard her during a tumultuous period in American history.
The story of the H.L. Hunley is a poignant reminder of the complexities of war and innovation. With an estimated value of $253,067 based on its building cost, the Hunley represents both a technological marvel and a historical artifact. Its legacy as the first successful combat submarine serves as a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of advancement in warfare. The recovery and preservation of the Hunley continue to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike, ensuring that this remarkable vessel will be remembered not only for its military significance but also for the stories of bravery and sacrifice it embodies.
The forty-foot submarine, constructed in Mobile, Alabama, experienced a series of tragic events throughout its operational history, sinking three times in total. During a test run in 1863, the submarine sank, resulting in the loss of three crew members. This incident marked the first of several unfortunate occurrences. Just a few months later, the submarine sank again, this time claiming the lives of eight individuals. Despite these setbacks, the vessel was raised and attempted to continue its operations.
In 1864, during a critical mission, the submarine's torpedo detonated prematurely, leading to the deaths of eight Confederate soldiers onboard. This catastrophic event marked the submarine’s final and most devastating failure, as it could not withstand the repercussions of its own weaponry. After disappearing from historical records for over a century, the submarine was rediscovered in 1995 and subsequently dredged up in 2000, revealing the remnants of its storied and tragic past.
The history of the Mobile submarine serves as a somber reflection on the challenges and dangers of early underwater warfare. With multiple sinkings and significant loss of life, the vessel's story highlights the risks taken by those who ventured into uncharted territories beneath the waves. The recovery of the submarine in 1995 and its elevation in 2000 have allowed historians and researchers to study its construction and the circumstances surrounding its ill-fated missions. This submarine not only represents a technological endeavor of its time but also stands as a memorial to the bravery and sacrifice of the individuals who served aboard it during a tumultuous chapter in American history.
