I am Rob Christopher, Chairman & Project Manager of the USS Arizona Civil War Gunboat Foundation. I am writing to let you know that I will be presenting the latest historical and archaeological research on the first USS Arizona. The presentation will occur on November 8, 2003 on board the USS Constellation at 12:00 pm. (located in the inner harbor of Baltimore,Md)

I would like to invite you, as well as all Civil War heritage enthusiast in the Maryland, Delaware, Virginia region to come and learn of the unique story of the first USS Arizona and its place in Civil War history.

Our Foundation continues to conduct historical and archaeological research on the Arizona as well as a number of other Confederate and Union vessels that were lost. Our mission is to continue our research in partnership with the National Park Service / American Battlefield Protection Program as well as local heritage programs. The presentation will consist of a brief history of the Arizona, current research and recovery operations, including sonar images of the vessel, and discussion on future projects. There will be a number of informational materials and one on one discussions after the formal presentation.

The Arizona was built in Wilmington, Delaware in 1858-59 as a civilian vessel, became a Confederate blockade runner in 1862 known as the Caroline, and eventually was captured and renamed the USS Arizona in 1863 and became a part of the Eastern Blockade Squadron and finally served as a blockade and communications vessel in the Western Gulf Blockade Squadron.

For further information visit the USS Constellation web-site at: www.constellation.org or call the USS Arizona Civil War Gunboat Foundation at: 303-912-5593

I hope to see you there.

Sincerely,

Rob Christopher
USSACWGF Chairman / Project Manager