The USS Dolphin (PG-24) was commissioned in 1885 as a naval dispatch vessel (there were no reliable radio communications at the time), and later became a gunship. She was the first of the ABCD ships (Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, and Dolphin), who were revolutionary steel-hulled warships for America’s “New Steel Navy.” Their masts, unlike those of later warships, were meant to carry sail, as naval officers did not trust coal-fired steam power. The ABCD vessels were transitionary: from wood to steel construction, and from wind to steam power. In fact, they were called the “Squadron of Evolution.”
During her 40 years of service in the US Navy, Dolphin fought in the Spanish American War and World War I. She transported three US Presidents, cabinet members, and also hosted the United States Congress on deck in 1909, during welcoming ceremonies for the homecoming of President Theodore Roosevelt’s Great White Fleet after its circumnavigational cruise. Incredibly, in 1888, Dolphin had made her own 18 month, 58,000 mile trip around the world. During the entire voyage, the engine was shut down for less that two hours for maintenance. Where can you get a car (or boat) like that?
Fred
Fredrik D. Bodin
Bodin Historic Photo
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Good Morning Gloucester 
Decommisioned when and dispatched of how?
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Decommissioned 8 December 1921, and sold for scrap 25 February 1922.
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Thanks Fred.
Do you know anything about the history of the photo? When, where and by whom?
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This photo was taken by Rockport photographer Charles H. Cleaves, who lived at the top of Pasture Road, with a commanding view of Sandy Bay. He likely shot this from another boat. The USS Dolphin is remembered for it’s significance in US Naval warship evolution, and has been called “a brave little ship.”
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Love your photos. Just a word of thanks with the hope you keep sharing these.
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