reviewed by Dave A.

This is one of those “WOW, I never knew that!!” stories. Not that the reader is so well versed in Confederate naval history, but this was a surprise. Typically, when one tries to recall the Southern navy during the Civil War, two things come to mind – blockade runners and the iron-clad battle between the Merrimac and Monitor. Yet, here is an “epic journey” that represents a little known, but truly historic naval effort.

Based primarily on the Executive Officer’s journal and the ship’s log, a journey of over 30,000 miles through some of the world’s most treacherous waters is recounted. Weather, crew discipline, monotony, and the ever-present possibility that a Yankee warship would be on the horizon were constant challenges for nearly a year. But, the raider Shenandoah continued her quest for Northern ships and inflicted significant losses on the Northern economy. Even though the Civil War resulted in tremendous casualties for both sides, actions by the Shenandoah and her crew were still reminiscent of more chivalrous times. Captured vessel captains were given receipts while captured seamen and passengers were treated fairly. And these were not isolated events – - dozens of Union ships were destroyed and more than a thousand prisoners were taken.

In our day of rapid communication, it was months after the Southern surrender before the Shenandoah heard the news. You will be surprised where they were upon learning the news, and further amazed at the destination chosen for the ship’s surrender. When they did surrender, the Confederate flag on the vessel was, indeed, the “Last Flag Down”.