Gilbert Elliott facts for kids

Gilbert Elliott was an important builder who lived from 1843 to 1895. He is best known for building a special kind of warship called an ironclad ram. This ship was named the CSS Albemarle.

Gilbert Elliott's Family Life

Gilbert Elliott was born on December 10, 1843. His birthplace was the "Milford" estate in Camden County, North Carolina. His parents were Gilbert Elliott and Sarah Ann Grice. Sarah Ann Grice was the granddaughter of a shipbuilder named Charles Grice. This connection might have sparked Gilbert's interest in ships.

After his father passed away, Gilbert's mother moved. She went to Oxford, North Carolina. She also wrote a cookbook called "Mrs. Elliott's Housewife". It was published in New York in 1870.

His Early Education

Gilbert Elliott went to school in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He learned many things in the local schools there. By the year 1860, he was working as a law clerk. This means he helped lawyers with their paperwork.

Military Service

Gilbert Elliott likely joined the Confederate Army. This happened on May 16, 1862. He was at Camp Mangum in North Carolina. The very next day, he was made a First Lieutenant. He was given the job of Regimental Adjutant. This role involved managing important military records.

Building the CSS Albemarle

Gilbert Elliott's most famous work was building the CSS Albemarle. This was a powerful ironclad ship. Construction on the ship started in 1862. It was built in Halifax County, North Carolina. The building site was once a cornfield. This shows how quickly and creatively ships were built during that time.