Program

NYS Historic

Subject

People

Location

26 W Court St, Warsaw, NY 14569, USA

Lat/Long

42.742798842214, -78.133912975313

Grant Recipient

Town of Warsaw

Zera L. Tanner’s career as a naval officer and early oceanographer took him all over the world; still, regarding his hometown of Warsaw, in his obituary published in The Buffalo News on December 17th, 1906, it states, “[he] has always considered this his home.” That connection Tanner had to Warsaw is now commemorated with a historical marker.

During the Civil War, Tanner served as an officer on the USS Midnight and USS Rhode Island. His obituary published in The Buffalo News details his service during the War, stating, “[Capt. Tanner] took part in the capture of Fort Fisher.” Fittingly, this historical marker is placed within sight of the Wyoming County Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, sometimes known as the Warsaw Civil War monument, which was dedicated in honor of those who served their country during the conflict.

Following the War, Tanner remained in the service, commanding research vessels in partnership between the Navy and the United States Fish Commission. Most famously, he commanded the USS Albatross, (sometimes referred to as the USFC Albatross in scientific literature,) which completed groundbreaking hydrographic surveys around the world. During his involvement with ocean research, he created a method of depth sounding that he would later patent.

Tanner retired from service in 1897 and passed away in Washington, D.C. at the age of 71. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Evidence of his impact can readily be seen by the fact two U.S. Navy ships were named in his honor during the 20^th century, both of which operated as research vessels. In addition, records from his career have since been digitized, and can be accessed at the Harvard Library “Expeditions and Discoveries” CURIOSity Collections webpage.