[Hank Bloomer]

There were two Confederate boats of this name. The first, built by Howards in 1860/61 was originally named J. A. Cotten and was scuttled and burned on Bayou Teche, 14 Jan '63. She was replaced by the Mary T. which was renamed J. A. Cotton, also built in 1860 by Howards. There are conflicting reports of when she was surrendered or perhaps captured. To add to the confusion these two boats have been referred to as: Cotton, Cotten, J. A. Cotten, J. A. Cotton, Mary T., Merite, Jno. A. Cotton, & Cotton Jr.