James M. Prichett

James M. Prichett (1836–1871) was an officer of the United States Navy who served in the American Civil War.

James M. Prichett
Born1836
Centerville, Indiana
Died1871 (aged 3435)
New York City
Allegiance United States of America
Service/branch United States Navy
Years of service1857–1871
Rank Lieutenant Commander
Commands held
Battles/warsAmerican Civil War

Biography

Prichett, born in Centerville, Indiana, in 1836, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1857. Prior to the Civil War he served aboard the Mississippi on the China Station, and in Richmond on the Mediterranean Station.

Assigned to the Washington Navy Yard in 1861, Prichett joined the Naval forces on the Mississippi River in 1862. On 4 July 1863, while commanding the gunboat Tyler, he participated in, and won praise for, effective action in repulsing a superior Confederate force during the battle of Helena, Arkansas. He also commanded monitor Mahopac during the war.

After the war he sailed with Admiral David Farragut's expedition to Russia and, in 1869, returned to the Pacific Squadron. Lieutenant Commander Prichett died in 1871 while attached to receiving ship Vermont at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Namesake

In 1943, the destroyer Prichett (DD-561) was named in his honor.

References

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