Why was Winfield Scott not a particular asset to the Union's US Civil War effort?

Answer 1

Quite simply Scott at 75 when the Civil War began was to old and in such poor health that he was unable to take to the field. To his credit, the often derided Anaconda Plan was his creation and was used by the Union. He retired in 1861 and died on 29 May 1866 at 79 years of age. Some believe that because he was a Virginian his sentiment lay with the South, however he was strongly anti-slavery.

At the beginning of the US Civil War, Lincoln relied on Scott's opinions but did not always follow through on them.

Also, at one point US President Lincoln traveled to West Point to ask General Scott his opinion of the Union war effort.

Scott was unappreciated. This was seen as the Union installed almost to a "T" his anaconda plan.

Answer 2

General Winfield Scott was a valuable Union player in the Union's war efforts. His initial Anaconda Plan, was brilliant. He tried his best and used sound military logic. He was unduly ignored. However, his ideas eventually gained traction in the war.