The inferiority of the timberclad vessels to the ironclad warships was ever more apparent following the battle, particularly their lack of a stern gun. Following the incident, the Union timberclads were modified to have at least one cannon pointed aft. The Lucas Bend engagement would nevertheless be among the last engagements of the Civil War to see timberclad vessels fulfil anything more than a supporting role for either side. The "Essex" and "St Louis" would go on to join Admiral Foote's squadron to capture Fort Henry on February 6. The "New Orleans" would be scuttled following the Confederate loss at the Battle of Island Number Ten. The CSS Jackson was burned when New Orleans fell in April 1862. Similarly, the CSS General Polk was burned in June 1862 to prevent it from falling into Union hands.