Description

The 1/192 scale (9.75" long) USS Keokuk is a medium difficulty kit to construct. While the basic construction is easy, the extensive photo etched sheet requires a modeler who has some experience working with photo etched parts to apply them. USS Keokuk, a 677-ton ironclad originally named Moodna (sometimes incorrectly spelled "Woodna"), she was renamed prior to her December 1862 launching and was commissioned in early March 1863. Keokuk arrived to take up her duties with the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron. On April 7, she joined USS New Ironsides and seven monitors in an attack as centerpiece of the Union's formidable defenses. Under the fire of heavy Confederate guns for more than half an hour, Keokuk was struck by about ninety projectiles, many of which hit at or below her waterline. Her experimental armor, featuring alternating rows of wood and iron, was completely inadequate to protect her from this onslaught and she was "completely riddled". Though Keokuk was able to withdraw and anchor out of range, she sank on the morning of, after about one month of commissioned service. You can see an independent review of this kit at:www.modelwarships.com/reviews/ships/misc/ironclads/192-keokuk-fs/flagship-review.html