The American Landing

The nesting surf boats used in the Mexican War were designed like large row boats and each held about 50 men. The Quartermaster’s Department hired contractors to build these boats to transport men, horses, and supplies for the troops. Although the army contracted for more than 140 of this craft, only 65 were ready when needed. The amphibious landing at Collado Beach was the largest in American history at that time with no lives, boats or supplies lost.