May 6, 1863, The Charleston Mercury
The guns of this famous iron clad now line on South Commercial wharf. They consist of two long 11 inch Columbiads, and will soon be mounted for our defence – valuable acquisitions, no less than handsome trophies of the Battle of Charleston Harbor. By order of General RIPLEY, Colonel ALFRED RHETT, on the […]th, after the departure of the iron clad fleet, examined the wreck, and reported the obtainment of the guns practicable. Mr. LACOSTE, assisted by Adjutant BOYLESTON, and detachments of men from Fort Sumter, under different lieutenants, have effected the saving of these fine pieces of ordnance with much trouble. Latterly the Keokuk has been entirely submerged, and in rough water. The turrets had to be unbolted, or unscrewed, and taken off before the guns could be slung for removal. This was an unpleasant job of some difficulty, the labor being performed under water, when the sea was smooth, and in the night time only. Those engaged in the undertaking, going in the small boat of the Fort, were sometimes protected from the enemy by the presence of our gunboats; at other times not. One gun was raised last week, being removed by the old Light Boat. General RIPLEY himself, night before last, went down to superintend the removal of the second gun. Enterprise, even with scant means, can accomplish much.