Henry A. Wise Letter 31 August 1867
August 31, 1867
Commodore A. H. Kilty U.S.N.
Comandant Navy Yard, Norfolk, Va.
Sir,
A few days since three (3) tanks containing powder were found in the Magazine of the “Chicopie” while that vessel was being stripped at the Washington Navy Yard, preparatory to her being sold at auction.
On the 6 December 1866 the “Chicopie” touched at Fort Norfolk for the purpose of landing her powder before going into dock and coming to Washington; but it appears that these three tanks containing nearly six hundred (600) pounds of powder were not landed at Fort Norfolk, and remained in the ship during the whole time she was in dock and while here at this Navy Yard. <
Acting Master Vary, it was at the time theOrdinance officer of the “Chicopie” states in a letter of explanation to the Department, that no receipt for powder landed was furnished him at Norfolk, and that “a survey was held on the state of the magazine and shell lockers at Norfolk on Saturday, December 8 by Commander M. C. Marin and an assistant, and this fact presented to me prevented me from examining the magazine again”.
As this case is one of very great important, and which might have resulted in a most terrible disaster, you will please direct Commander Marin to furnish the Bureau with all the information he has concerning it, especially as relates to the statement of Acting Master Vary which, you will perceive, reflect upon his vigilance and attention to duty.
If Commander Marin has left the station, let the records of the office be given as they may relate to the case.
I am Sir,
Your obedient servant,
H. A. Wise
Chief of the Bureau
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Source of Information
National Archives, Record Group 74 Records of Bureau of Ordnance
Letters Sent to Navy Yards & Stations, 1842 - 1882.
Norfolk
May 1867 - Oct 1881
Box No. 16, Entry 3
Page 19