William Wister McKean was an admiral in the United States Navy during the American Civil War. He was noted for his service in the Union blockade that effectively closed Confederate seaports in the Gulf of Mexico.
At the age of 14, McKean was appointed midshipman on the under the command of Oliver Hazard Perry on 30 November 1814. He was relieved from active duty on 4 June 1862. ==Personal life==
Personal life
McKean married Davis Rosa. They had at least two children, Rosa and Stephen. His cousin was Confederate Navy officer Franklin Buchanan. Following his retirement, McKean moved to Washington Street, Binghamton, New York. McKean died on 22 April 1865 near Binghamton. He was buried in Spring Forest Cemetery. ==Dates of rank==
Dates of rank
• Midshipman - 30 November 1814 • Lieutenant - 13 January 1825 • Commander - 8 September 1841 • Captain - 14 September 1855 • Retired List - 27 December 1861 • Flag Officer, Retired List - 3 January 1862 • Commodore, on Retired List - 16 July 1862 • Died - 22 April 1865 ==Namesakes==