USS Fearnot (1861) was purchased by the Union Navy for service during the American Civil War. She was assigned to blockade duty for which she was prepared with her powerful rifled guns capable of accurately firing 32 pound rounds. Fearnot was built by G. W, Jackman, Jr., Newburyport, Massachusetts; purchased by the Union Navy 20 July 1861; and commissioned 28 August 1861, Acting Master E. H. Faucon in command.