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CSS TEASER

CSS Teaser became a pioneer minelayer when she assisted General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia on June 17, 1862. Under Lieutenant Hunter Davidson, she was used by the Confederate Naval Submarine Battery Service to plant and service mines in the James River. 



Teaser was built in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as a 64 ton, 80 feet by 18 feet tugboat. Purchased by the State of Virginia in 1861, she was assigned to the naval forces in the James River with Lieutenant James Henry Rochelle, Virginia State Navy, in command. Upon the secession of Virginia, Teaser became a part of the Confederate States Navy and continued to operate in Virginia waters. 

With Lieutenant William A. Webb in command, CSS Teaser took an active part in the Battle of Hampton Roads on March 8–March 9, 1862. During the Battle, Teaser acted as the Virginia’s tender. She fought her way past the Federal shore batteries to support the Virginia, arriving during the surrender of the USS Congress. During the battle, Teaser picked up survivors from a damaged ship and returned them to the Virginia. For this, her captain and crew were formally acknowledged by the Confederate Congress for their brave action.

In June of 1862, Davidson was appointed the commander of the Teaser. He also became the head of the Submarine Battery Service. With Davidson at her helm, the Teaser became the first ship to lay mines. Furthermore, it was resolved that the qualities needed to lay mines, handling and transporting a large and delicate cargo, would be useful in transporting and launching a balloon. On June 27th, 1862, during the Battle of Gaines’ Mill, Va., her balloon first went aloft. The balloon was commanded by the future general Lt. Col. Edward P. Alexander. 

On July 4, 1862 the CSS Teaser ran aground in the James and it and its balloon were captured by the USS Maratanza.