"wampanoag" contained numerous design features unprecedented in american naval construction. her hull — designed by clipper ship architect benjamin franklin delano — was unusually long and tapered relative to the vessel's beam. her machinery, developed by controversial naval engineer benjamin f. isherwood, was unique for its geared steam engine in which slow-moving machinery coupled to fast-moving propulsion gear. tremendous debate caused by this design delayed construction, preventing "wampanoag" from being completed in time to serve in the american civil war.