Originally used as a British troop transport ship, the CSS Shenandoah was purchased by the Confederate government for use as a commerce raider. An iron-framed, teak-planked, full-rigged ship with auxiliary steam power, the Shenandoah was captained by Commander James Waddell of the Confederate States Navy. The CSS Shenandoah captured and sank or bonded (was promised payment for the captured vessel)38 Union merchant vessels, mostly New Bedford Whaleships.