Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Conning Tower

CONNING TOWER, the place in modern battleships where the commander stands during a naval engagement, and from which he directs the movements of the ship and men. The conning tower is built over the foreward turret and is a circular chamber, scarcely 6 feet across and protected by walls of steel 12 inches thick. The roof is also of solid steel. Between the arched roof and the walls is a narrow slit from which the eye can sweep the whole horizon. The sharp-pointed bow of the boat is just below, and directly in front are the two big guns that protrude from the turret. Throughout the engagement the commander is invisible to his men, his voice alone being heard through the speaking tubes and telephone with which the turret is fitted. In its center are the steam-steering wheel, binnacle and compass, and by the directing hand of the commander, standing beside the compass, the battle is fought.