 "Racer" was purchased for $7500 by the Navy at New York City 29 August 1861; and commissioned at the New York Navy Yard 21 January, Acting Master Alvin Phinney in command.Originally fitted out for blockade duty, the schooner first carried four 32-pounders, but, before she commissioned, she was selected for service in Comdr.David D. Porter's mortar flotilla, and two of her cannon were removed to make room for a 13-inch mortar and two 12-pounder rifles.