USS Monitor (ironclad)

The USS Monitor was an American ironclad that was in service with the United States Navy in the mid-19th century. In the American Civil War, the Monitor took part in the historic Battle of Hampton Roads, the first battle between ironclad vessels, when it stood off against the Confederate's own ironclad.

A painting depicting this battle was stored in the USS Enterprise (NCC-1701)'s library computer in 2254, and was among the materials viewed by the Talosians when they scanned the Enterprise computer. 

Background information
The Monitor was later referenced by Abraham Lincoln in what was a deleted scene from. In this scene, Lincoln, who was amazed at the wonders of the Enterprise stated, "We thought our Monitor the most formidable vessel imaginable. An iron ship that floated on water! You can imagine my amazement at an iron ship that floats on air..."