USS Joseph F. Bellows (SP-323)

USS Joseph F. Bellows (SP-323) was a fishing boat purchased by the U.S. Navy during World War I. She was outfitted as an armed minesweeper and was assigned to the Virginia coast. Post-war she served as a tender and supply ship until sold in 1919.

Built in Maryland
Joseph F. Bellows (SP-323), a fishing steamer built in 1912 by E. J. Tull, Pocomoke City, Maryland, was acquired by the Navy from Bellows and Squires, Inc., Ocran, Virginia, in May 1917. She commissioned 18 May 1917, Ens. T. C. Christopher, USNRF, in command.

World War I service
Assigned to the 5th Naval District at Norfolk, Virginia, Joseph F. Bellows operated as a minesweeper off Cape Henry and in the convoy channel to Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Post-war service
After the armistice ending World War I was signed, she acted as a lightship tender and a supply ship until July 1919.

Decommissioning and sale
Joseph F. Bellows was sold 2 July 1919 to NcNeal Dodson Co., Inc., Reedville, Virginia.