USS Fox (TB-13)

The third USS "Fox" (Torpedo Boat No. 13/TB-13), was launched 4 July 1898 by Wolf and Zwickers, Portland, Oregon.; sponsored by Miss V. Patterson; and commissioned 8 July 1899, Lieutenant Commander K. F. Nicholson in command.

Based at Mare Island Navy Yard, the pioneer group of torpedo boats, which included "Fox", cruised during 1900 only in the immediate area, conducting trials of engines and equipment, and in general, developing their type both in terms of construction and equipment, and tactics. Between 1901 and 1906, "Fox" was in the yard for installation of torpedo-firing circuits and other work designed to enhance her capabilities. After 2 years in reserve, she was recommissioned 23 March 1908, and based at San Diego for intensive training operations with the Pacific Fleet.

Out of commission between 7 January 1909 and 17 October 1910, when she was commissioned in reserve, "Fox" returned to full commission between 1 November 1910 and 5 July 1913, although for much of 1911 and 1912 she lay in reserve. While active, she continued her training and experimental operations out of SanDiego. From 1913 to 1916, "Fox" was on loan to the Washington State Naval Militia, based at Aberdeen, Washington. She was sold 27 October 1916.

References

*DANFS|http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/f4/fox-iii.htm
*"Technical data from" cite book
last = Gardiner
first = Robert
coauthors =
title = Conway's All The World's Fighting Ships 1860-1905
publisher = Conway Maritime Press
date = 1979
pages = p. 160
month =
isbn = 0 85177 133 5