the second ship to be so named, "saranac" was laid down in 1847 by the portsmouth navy yard, and was launched on 14 november 1848. the new side-wheel steam sloop of war got underway on 10 april 1850 for a trial cruise in the north atlantic. upon returning home, she underwent repairs and alterations before commissioning on 12 october 1850, captain josiah tattnall in command.