In the fall of 1861 the Confederates strung a chain across the Mississippi to prevent the passage of the Union gunboats. It was tied to two Sycamore trees on the Missouri side and was held on the Kentucky end by a marine anchor which weighed over 7,000 pounds and measured 8 feet between the tips of the flukes. The chain, itself, was over a mile long and was made of 1/2 inch diameter iron links, each measuring 10 inches in length and weighing about 14 pounds. Due to its great weight, the portion which actually spanned the water was supported by several rafts and it was further armed with submerged explosive devices which were fastened to it at regular intervals.
      The anchor and section of the chain shown at left can be found in the National Park at Columbus.

      The sketch at bottom, left shows the positions of the chain and the lower batteries.