DECEMBER 31ST, 1864: As the year 1964 ended at sea, far from the Confederacy, Lt. Waddell, commander of the CSS Shenandoah, wrote in his journal: "Thirty-first of December closed the year, the third since the war began.
"And how many of my boon companions are gone to that bourne from whence no traveler returns. They were full of hope, but not without fears, when we last parted."
Even the tireless Waddell could by this time sense the impeding defeat of the South, despite great gallantry, overwhelmed by Union advantages especially the ceaseless, crushing power of the sea.
--Almost Over Now. --Old B-Runner
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Two Union Launches Captured at Charleston Harbor
DECEMBER 31ST, 1864: Two launches from the USS Wabash and Pawnee ran aground and were captured in Charleston harbor. While on guard duty, the two launches were driven aground close to Fort Sumter by a strong flood tide and freshening wind.. A total of 27 sailors were captured.
DECEMBER 31ST, 1864: The USS Metacomet, Lt.Cmdr. Jouett, captured schooner Sea Witch southeast of Galveston, Texas, with cargo of coffee and medicine.
--Old B-R'er
DECEMBER 31ST, 1864: The USS Metacomet, Lt.Cmdr. Jouett, captured schooner Sea Witch southeast of Galveston, Texas, with cargo of coffee and medicine.
--Old B-R'er
New York City Thanks Farragut
DECEMBER 31ST, 1864: Vice Admiral Farragut received a gift of $50,000 in government bonds from the merchants of New York as a symbol of esteem in which he was held by them.
A letter from the merchants added: "The citizens of New York can offer no tribute equal to your claims on their gratitude and affection. Their earnest desire is, to receive you as one of their number, and to be permitted, as fellow citizens, to share the renown you will bring to the Metropolitan City."
In other words, they wanted him to make his home there.
--Old B-Runner
A letter from the merchants added: "The citizens of New York can offer no tribute equal to your claims on their gratitude and affection. Their earnest desire is, to receive you as one of their number, and to be permitted, as fellow citizens, to share the renown you will bring to the Metropolitan City."
In other words, they wanted him to make his home there.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Union Determination to Take Fort Fisher "Without the Former Commander"
DECEMBER 30, 1864: Determined to take Wilmington and close the South's last important port but dissatisfied with General Butler's leadership, Rear Admiral Porter strongly urged the general's removal from command.
General Grant wrote Porter: "Please hold on where you are for a few days and I will endeavor to be back again with an increased force and without the former commander."
Ships of the fleet kept up a steady bombardment of Fort Fisher to restrict the erection of new works and the repair of the damaged face of the fort.
(It is of interest that Porter, although highly in favor of the powder ship experiment had come to say that he knew it wouldn't work. just another Butler idea.)
--Old B-R'er
General Grant wrote Porter: "Please hold on where you are for a few days and I will endeavor to be back again with an increased force and without the former commander."
Ships of the fleet kept up a steady bombardment of Fort Fisher to restrict the erection of new works and the repair of the damaged face of the fort.
(It is of interest that Porter, although highly in favor of the powder ship experiment had come to say that he knew it wouldn't work. just another Butler idea.)
--Old B-R'er
Shenandoah and Rattler
DECEMBER 29TH, 1864: The CSS Shenandoah captured and destroyed the bark Delphine in the Indian Ocean with cargo of rice. Delphine was the ship's last capture of the year and ninth prize in eight weeks.
DECEMBER 30TH, 1864: The USS Rattler parted her cables in a heavy gale, ran ashore, struck a snag and sank in the Mississippi River near Grand Gulf. Most of the supplies and armament were saved but the small paddle-wheel ship had to be abandoned and later was burned by the Confederates.
--Old B-Runner
DECEMBER 30TH, 1864: The USS Rattler parted her cables in a heavy gale, ran ashore, struck a snag and sank in the Mississippi River near Grand Gulf. Most of the supplies and armament were saved but the small paddle-wheel ship had to be abandoned and later was burned by the Confederates.
--Old B-Runner
Monday, December 29, 2014
Thanks to Union Navy in the Nashville Campaign
DECEMBER 29TH, 1964: Major General Thomas, summarizing the successful repulse of General Hood's Confederate Army in Tennessee, paid tribute to the assistance of the Navy in a letter to Rear Admiral Lee: "Your efficient cooperation on the Tennessee River has contributed largely to the demoralization of Hood's army."
With the big guns and mobility of the river warships efficiently aiding his forces ashore, General Thomas had succeeded in virtually destroying the most effective Confederate force in the West, thus protesting General Sherman's line of communications on his march through Georgia.
--Old B-R'er
With the big guns and mobility of the river warships efficiently aiding his forces ashore, General Thomas had succeeded in virtually destroying the most effective Confederate force in the West, thus protesting General Sherman's line of communications on his march through Georgia.
--Old B-R'er
Naval Brigade Withdrawn in South Carolina
DECEMBER 28TH, 1864: The military situation having stabilized on the Tulifinny River area of South Carolina (where things were getting hot Dec. 5-9), Rear Admiral Dahlgren withdrew the naval brigade Under Commander Preble and returned the sailors and marines comprising it to their respective ships.
The 500-man brigade hastily brought together and trained in infantry tactics, performed vital service in the arduous 4 week campaign.
Major General Foster, commanding the Military District of the South, complimented Dahlgren on the Brigade's courage and skill: "...its gallantry in action and good conduct during the irksome life in camp won from all the land forces with which it served the highest praises."
Although the Savannah-Charleston railroad was not cut by the expedition, it did succeed in diverting Confederate troops opposing Sherman's March across Georgia.
--Old B-Runner
The 500-man brigade hastily brought together and trained in infantry tactics, performed vital service in the arduous 4 week campaign.
Major General Foster, commanding the Military District of the South, complimented Dahlgren on the Brigade's courage and skill: "...its gallantry in action and good conduct during the irksome life in camp won from all the land forces with which it served the highest praises."
Although the Savannah-Charleston railroad was not cut by the expedition, it did succeed in diverting Confederate troops opposing Sherman's March across Georgia.
--Old B-Runner
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Action in Texas
DECEMBER 27TH, 1864: Shortly after midnight a boat crew from the USS Virginia cut out the schooner Belle in Galveston Harbor, loaded with cotton. Belle was at anchor only some 400 yards from the Confederate guard boat Lecompte when the Union sailors boldly boarded it and sailed her out of the harbor.
DECEMBER 28TH, 1864: The USS Kanawha forced an unidentified blockade running sloop ashore near Caney Creek, Texas, and destroyed her.
--Old B-R'er
DECEMBER 28TH, 1864: The USS Kanawha forced an unidentified blockade running sloop ashore near Caney Creek, Texas, and destroyed her.
--Old B-R'er
Blockade-Runner Chameleon Slips Out of Wilmington
DECEMBER 26TH, 1864: Blockade-runner Chameleon, formerly the dread raiser CSS Tallahassee, under the command of Lt. Wilkinson, slipped out of Wilmington amid the confusion of the aftermath of the first attack on Fort Fisher.
In Bermuda, the Chameleon loaded badly needed foodstuffs for the Confederate armies, but by the time Wilkinson could get back to Wilmington in January, the port had already fallen.
--Old B-Runner
In Bermuda, the Chameleon loaded badly needed foodstuffs for the Confederate armies, but by the time Wilkinson could get back to Wilmington in January, the port had already fallen.
--Old B-Runner
The First Battle of Fort Fisher-- Part 6: Aftermath
Confederate reinforcements under General R.F. Hoke were in Wilmington and arrived at Confederate Point just as the last Union forces departed from the beach on the 27th.
The Army transports returned to Hampton Roads to prepare for a second attack on Fort Fisher, while Porter's fleet remained in the Wilmington-Beaufort area and continued sporadic bombardment in an effort to prevent repair to the fort.
--Old B-R'er
The Army transports returned to Hampton Roads to prepare for a second attack on Fort Fisher, while Porter's fleet remained in the Wilmington-Beaufort area and continued sporadic bombardment in an effort to prevent repair to the fort.
--Old B-R'er
The First Battle of Fort Fisher-- Part 5: Bombardment and Failure
Late in the Afternoon, Union skirmishers advanced to within yards of the fort, supported by the guns of the fleet.
Lt. Aeneas Armstrong, CSN, inside Fort Fisher, later described the bombardment: "The whole of the interior of the fort, which consists of sand, merlons, etc., was as one eleven-inch shell bursting. You can now inspect the works and walk on nothing but iron."
Union Army commanders, however, considered the works too strongly defended to be carried by assault with the troops available, and the soldiers returned to the landing zone and began to reembark. However, some 700 troops were left on the beach there when the weather worsened.
They were protected by gun boats under Captain Glisson, USS Santiago de Cuba, who had lent continuous close support to the landing. By December 27th, the last ones on shore had embarked; the first major attack on Fort Fisher had failed.
--Old B-Runner
Lt. Aeneas Armstrong, CSN, inside Fort Fisher, later described the bombardment: "The whole of the interior of the fort, which consists of sand, merlons, etc., was as one eleven-inch shell bursting. You can now inspect the works and walk on nothing but iron."
Union Army commanders, however, considered the works too strongly defended to be carried by assault with the troops available, and the soldiers returned to the landing zone and began to reembark. However, some 700 troops were left on the beach there when the weather worsened.
They were protected by gun boats under Captain Glisson, USS Santiago de Cuba, who had lent continuous close support to the landing. By December 27th, the last ones on shore had embarked; the first major attack on Fort Fisher had failed.
--Old B-Runner
The First Battle of Fort Fisher-- Part 4: Christmas Day
At 10:30 a.m. the following morning, Christmas Day, Porters ships again rained destruction opn the fort and maintained it while Butler's troops landed north of the fort near Confederate Flag Pond Battery. Naval gunfire kept the fort's garrison pinned down and away from their guns as Butler landed about 2,000 men who advanced toward the land face of the fort.
Meanwhile, Porter attempted to find a channel through New Inlet in order to attack the fort from the rear (Cape Fear River). When Commander Guest, USS Iosco and a detachment of double-ender gunboats encountered a shallow bar over which they could not pass, Porter called on the indomitable Lt. William Cushing, hero of the CSS Albemarle sinking, to sound the channel in small boats, buoying it for the ships to pass through. Under withering fire from Battery Buchanan, even the daring Cushing was forced to turn back, one of his boats being cut in half by a Confederate shell.
Not Even Cushing. --Old B-R'er
Meanwhile, Porter attempted to find a channel through New Inlet in order to attack the fort from the rear (Cape Fear River). When Commander Guest, USS Iosco and a detachment of double-ender gunboats encountered a shallow bar over which they could not pass, Porter called on the indomitable Lt. William Cushing, hero of the CSS Albemarle sinking, to sound the channel in small boats, buoying it for the ships to pass through. Under withering fire from Battery Buchanan, even the daring Cushing was forced to turn back, one of his boats being cut in half by a Confederate shell.
Not Even Cushing. --Old B-R'er
The First Battle of Fort Fisher-- Part 3:Christmas Eve Day
From the Civil War Naval Chronology.
DECEMBER 24-25TH, 1864
Naval forces under the command of Rear Admiral Porter and Army units under Major General Butler launched an unsuccessful attack against Fort Fisher.
Transports carrying Butler's troops had retired to Beaufort from their station off Fort Fisher in order to avoid the anticipated results of the explosion of the powder boat Louisiana, and fleet units had assembled in a rendezvous area 12 miles from the fort.
At daylight on 24 December, the huge fleet got underway, formed in line of battle before the formidable Confederate works, and commenced a furious bombardment. The staunch Southern defenders under the command of Col. William Lamb, were driven from their guns and into the bombproofs of the fort, but managed to occasionally return fire from a few of the guns.
Transports carrying Butler's troops did not arrive from Beaufort until evening; too late for an assault that day As such, Porter withdrew his ships, intending to return and again bombard the next day. Most of his casualties this first day came from the bursting of five 100-pounder Parrott guns on board five different ships.
By taking shelter the defenders, too, suffered few casualties despite the tremendous bombardment. At times, as many as a 100 shells a minute were being fired at the big sand fort.
--Duck and Cover. --Old B-Runner
DECEMBER 24-25TH, 1864
Naval forces under the command of Rear Admiral Porter and Army units under Major General Butler launched an unsuccessful attack against Fort Fisher.
Transports carrying Butler's troops had retired to Beaufort from their station off Fort Fisher in order to avoid the anticipated results of the explosion of the powder boat Louisiana, and fleet units had assembled in a rendezvous area 12 miles from the fort.
At daylight on 24 December, the huge fleet got underway, formed in line of battle before the formidable Confederate works, and commenced a furious bombardment. The staunch Southern defenders under the command of Col. William Lamb, were driven from their guns and into the bombproofs of the fort, but managed to occasionally return fire from a few of the guns.
Transports carrying Butler's troops did not arrive from Beaufort until evening; too late for an assault that day As such, Porter withdrew his ships, intending to return and again bombard the next day. Most of his casualties this first day came from the bursting of five 100-pounder Parrott guns on board five different ships.
By taking shelter the defenders, too, suffered few casualties despite the tremendous bombardment. At times, as many as a 100 shells a minute were being fired at the big sand fort.
--Duck and Cover. --Old B-Runner
Friday, December 26, 2014
The First Battle of Fort Fisher-- Part 2: Much Ado About Nothing
Porter rthen sailed in at daylight and opened fire with the 635 heavy naval guns at his disposal. They were throwing over a hundred shells a minute at times. Many flew over the fort, but many struck and did little damage other than moving some sand around.
The bombardment was renewed Christmas Day and an amphibious landing was made north of Fort Fisher. Some 2,000 Union soldiers got ashore and made their way southward toward the fort where they observed only very minimal damage to the fort. They began skirmishing with Lamb's men.
General Robert E. Lee had dispatched Major General Robert Hoke's division from his army to assist with the defense of the fort. His timely arrival to the north of the Union troops convince Butler to cancel his attack on the fort and return to the transports.
Federal officials were enraged by the failure to attack and removed Butler from command and replaced him with Brigadier General Alfred Terry.
Porter and Terry closed out 1864 planning for the renewed attack on Fort Fisher.
One for the Confeds. --Old B-R'er
The bombardment was renewed Christmas Day and an amphibious landing was made north of Fort Fisher. Some 2,000 Union soldiers got ashore and made their way southward toward the fort where they observed only very minimal damage to the fort. They began skirmishing with Lamb's men.
General Robert E. Lee had dispatched Major General Robert Hoke's division from his army to assist with the defense of the fort. His timely arrival to the north of the Union troops convince Butler to cancel his attack on the fort and return to the transports.
Federal officials were enraged by the failure to attack and removed Butler from command and replaced him with Brigadier General Alfred Terry.
Porter and Terry closed out 1864 planning for the renewed attack on Fort Fisher.
One for the Confeds. --Old B-R'er
The First Battle of Fort Fisher-- Part 1: Big Bang Over Fisher
From This Week in Civil War History: Dec. 24-30, 1864 by Michael K. Shaffer.
Sailing toward Fort Fisher, North Carolina, Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter had 61 ships, the largest assemblage of American ships ever up to that time. Major General Benjamin Butler had 6,500 soldiers along with him. The object was to be an amphibious expedition against the huge sand fort.
Colonel William lamb and about 1,900 men held the fort and prepared for the forthcoming fight.
Butler had conceived the idea to blow up a Union ship loaded with gun powder. The old USS Louisiana, had 150 tons of the explosive stuff aboard it. During the early morning hours of Christmas Eve, Dec. 24th, the Louisiana was run aground near the fort and exploded. There came a lot of noise and repercussion, but no damage was done to the fort. Both Butler and Porter had hoped it would knock the fort into ruins.
The Original Big Bang Theory? --Old B-Runner
Sailing toward Fort Fisher, North Carolina, Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter had 61 ships, the largest assemblage of American ships ever up to that time. Major General Benjamin Butler had 6,500 soldiers along with him. The object was to be an amphibious expedition against the huge sand fort.
Colonel William lamb and about 1,900 men held the fort and prepared for the forthcoming fight.
Butler had conceived the idea to blow up a Union ship loaded with gun powder. The old USS Louisiana, had 150 tons of the explosive stuff aboard it. During the early morning hours of Christmas Eve, Dec. 24th, the Louisiana was run aground near the fort and exploded. There came a lot of noise and repercussion, but no damage was done to the fort. Both Butler and Porter had hoped it would knock the fort into ruins.
The Original Big Bang Theory? --Old B-Runner
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
150 Years Ago Today, Butler's Powder Ship Blows Up-- Part 2
The clock mechanism to blow the ship up failed to ignite the powder at the appointed time, 1:18 a.m., and after agonizing minutes of waiting, the fire set in the stern of the Louisiana reached the powder and a tremendous explosion occurred.
Fort Fisher and its garrison, however, were not measurably affected, although the blast was heard many miles away; in fact, Col. Lamb, the fort's commander wrote in his diary: "A blockader got aground near the fort, set fire to herself and blew up."
It remained for the massed gunfire from ships of Porter's huge fleet, the largest ever assembled up to that time under the American flag, to cover the landings and reduce Fort Fisher.
For tghe events of what happened today in te battle, hit the First Battle of Fort Fisher label below and go to Dec. 24, 2012.
--Old B-Runner
Fort Fisher and its garrison, however, were not measurably affected, although the blast was heard many miles away; in fact, Col. Lamb, the fort's commander wrote in his diary: "A blockader got aground near the fort, set fire to herself and blew up."
It remained for the massed gunfire from ships of Porter's huge fleet, the largest ever assembled up to that time under the American flag, to cover the landings and reduce Fort Fisher.
For tghe events of what happened today in te battle, hit the First Battle of Fort Fisher label below and go to Dec. 24, 2012.
--Old B-Runner
150 Years Ago Today, Butler's Powder Ship Blows Up-- Part 1
DECEMBER 24TH, 1864: After many days of delay because of heavy weather, the powder ship USS Louisiana, Commander Rhind, towed by the USS Wilderness late at night, anchored and was blown up 250 yards off Fort Fisher, North Carolina. After Rhind and his gallant crew set the fuses and a fire in the stern, they escaped in small boats to the Wilderness.
Rear Admiral Porter and General Butler, who was waiting in Beaufort, N.C., about 70 miles away, to land his troops the next morning to storm Fort Fisher, placed great hope in the exploding powder ship, hope that Rear Admiral Dahlgren as an ordnance expert no doubt disdained.
--Old B-R'er
Rear Admiral Porter and General Butler, who was waiting in Beaufort, N.C., about 70 miles away, to land his troops the next morning to storm Fort Fisher, placed great hope in the exploding powder ship, hope that Rear Admiral Dahlgren as an ordnance expert no doubt disdained.
--Old B-R'er
Cutting Off Hood's Retreat in Alabama
DECEMBER 24TH, 1864: After Confederate General Hood's defeat at Nashville, he began retreating to Alabama with what was left of his army. Today, Rear Admiral Lee, commanding the Mississippi Squadron, arrived off Chickasaw, Alabama, in an attempt to cut off the retreat. At Chickasaw, the USS Fairy destroyed a Confederate fort and magazine, but even this small, shallow-draft river boat was unable to go beyond Great Mussel Shoals on the Tennessee River because of low water.
On 27 December, gunboats engaged and destroyed two field pieces near Florence, Alabama, but by this time the water of the Tennessee River had fallen drastically, and Lee's vessels were compelled to withdraw toward Eastport.
--Old B-R'er
On 27 December, gunboats engaged and destroyed two field pieces near Florence, Alabama, but by this time the water of the Tennessee River had fallen drastically, and Lee's vessels were compelled to withdraw toward Eastport.
--Old B-R'er
Christmas Eve 150 Years Ago Came In With a Bang at Fort Fisher
From the Dec. 16, 2014, Jacksonville, N.C. Daily News "150 Years after Fort Fisher fight, Civil War is big business" by Ben Steelman.
"Christmas Eve came with a bang 150 years ago in Southeastern North Carolina."
At 1:46 a.m. on the morning of December 24, 1864, the USS Louisiana, a flat-bottomed powder ship, blew up 600 yards off Fort Fisher. This was the project of Union General Benjamin Butler who thought the explosion would knock the big sand fort down.
The explosion was heard at Wilmington and some accounts have it being heard at Beaufort, North Carolina, 70 miles away.
The explosion failed to even damage the fort. Undertow and a strong offshore breeze pulled the Louisiana off course. The ship's commander miscalculated the distance and thought he was just 300 yards away and then set the fuses and abandoned the ship.
A group of teen-aged N.C. Junior Reserves were camping near the beach and the explosion jarred them from their tents :like popcorn from a popper." they were frightened, but otherwise unhurt.
Today, ironically, the Fort Fisher State Historic Park will be closed Dec. 24-Dec. 26, 2014, for the holidays, which dates also mark the 150th anniversary of the First Battle of Fort Fisher.
The fort marked its observance last Saturday with re-enactors and the firing of the fort's 32-pdr. gun.
--Old B-Runner
"Christmas Eve came with a bang 150 years ago in Southeastern North Carolina."
At 1:46 a.m. on the morning of December 24, 1864, the USS Louisiana, a flat-bottomed powder ship, blew up 600 yards off Fort Fisher. This was the project of Union General Benjamin Butler who thought the explosion would knock the big sand fort down.
The explosion was heard at Wilmington and some accounts have it being heard at Beaufort, North Carolina, 70 miles away.
The explosion failed to even damage the fort. Undertow and a strong offshore breeze pulled the Louisiana off course. The ship's commander miscalculated the distance and thought he was just 300 yards away and then set the fuses and abandoned the ship.
A group of teen-aged N.C. Junior Reserves were camping near the beach and the explosion jarred them from their tents :like popcorn from a popper." they were frightened, but otherwise unhurt.
Today, ironically, the Fort Fisher State Historic Park will be closed Dec. 24-Dec. 26, 2014, for the holidays, which dates also mark the 150th anniversary of the First Battle of Fort Fisher.
The fort marked its observance last Saturday with re-enactors and the firing of the fort's 32-pdr. gun.
--Old B-Runner
Fort Fisher Visitors Center Closed Today and Christmas Day
It's sad to say, but the Fort Fisher Visitors Center and Museum will be closed today, Christmas Eve and tomorrow, Christmas Day and Friday These three days mark the 150th anniversary of the First Battle of Fort Fisher.
I think that considering this was to be such an important anniversary that it should have remained open.
--Old B-R'er
I think that considering this was to be such an important anniversary that it should have remained open.
--Old B-R'er
Workers Preparing Fort Fisher for 159th Anniversary of Its Fall
From the Dec. 17, 2014, WECT NBC Wilmington, N.C. "Workers at Fort Fisher get ready for massive anniversary crowd" by Bob Townsend.
The year 2015 marks the end of the Civil War Sesquicentennial observance which has been good, but not as good as the centennial one was back in 1961-1965 (when I was ages 10-14). Workers have been busily preparing for the observance of Fort Fisher's capture by Union force on January 15, 1865.
A new palisade fence was been erected along the land face of the earthen fort. Also, new way sign markers have been placed. (The old ones had gotten very faded out over the years.)
After Fort Fisher fell, the war lasted less than 90 days which makes its capture quite important. Two battles were fought at the fort. The first one began 150 years ago today, Christmas Eve, 1864. The Union forces lost that one and withdrew, but came back about three weeks later and this time succeeded.
Fort Fisher officials will conduct special tours the weekend of Jan.17-18, 2015. Over 500 re-enactors are expected to be on hand and over 20,000 visitors are expected.
There will be parking at the Air Force Fort Fisher Recreation Area to handle the overflow vehicles.
--Old B-Runner
The year 2015 marks the end of the Civil War Sesquicentennial observance which has been good, but not as good as the centennial one was back in 1961-1965 (when I was ages 10-14). Workers have been busily preparing for the observance of Fort Fisher's capture by Union force on January 15, 1865.
A new palisade fence was been erected along the land face of the earthen fort. Also, new way sign markers have been placed. (The old ones had gotten very faded out over the years.)
After Fort Fisher fell, the war lasted less than 90 days which makes its capture quite important. Two battles were fought at the fort. The first one began 150 years ago today, Christmas Eve, 1864. The Union forces lost that one and withdrew, but came back about three weeks later and this time succeeded.
Fort Fisher officials will conduct special tours the weekend of Jan.17-18, 2015. Over 500 re-enactors are expected to be on hand and over 20,000 visitors are expected.
There will be parking at the Air Force Fort Fisher Recreation Area to handle the overflow vehicles.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Powder Ship Louisiana Arrives Off Fort Fisher
DECEMBER 23RD, 1864: After the delay of many days due to heavy weather, the powder ship USS Louisiana, Commander Rhind, was towed to a position 250 yards off Fort Fisher.
Early in the morning of the 24th, Christmas Eve morning, it was blown up, but more on that tomorrow, the 150th anniversary of Butler's powder ship.
--Old B-Runner
Early in the morning of the 24th, Christmas Eve morning, it was blown up, but more on that tomorrow, the 150th anniversary of Butler's powder ship.
--Old B-Runner
Bragg Comes to Wilmington-- Part 2: "Goodbye Wilmington"
Another famous line about Braxton Bragg was that when news of his being assigned to Wilmington in October 1864, reached the public, the Richmond Enquirer wrote, "General Bragg is going to Wilmington. Goodbye Wilmington."
And, relieved Major General Whiting at Wilmington had his supporters. None bigger was Fort Fisher's commander, Col. William Lamb, who wrote: "No one was so capable of defending the Cape Fear as the brilliant officer who has given so much of his time and ability for its defense.
One of Lamb's lieutenants recalled that "Little Billy's" relief (what Whiting was called by his men due to his size) and Bragg's arrival brought gloom to the entire command.
While Whiting had commanded the Cape Fear District he had constantly pleaded for more troops and supplies. But when Bragg arrived on October 22, 1864, he reported the city and its defenses to be in good shape.
Bragg's Not the Man. --Old B-R'er
And, relieved Major General Whiting at Wilmington had his supporters. None bigger was Fort Fisher's commander, Col. William Lamb, who wrote: "No one was so capable of defending the Cape Fear as the brilliant officer who has given so much of his time and ability for its defense.
One of Lamb's lieutenants recalled that "Little Billy's" relief (what Whiting was called by his men due to his size) and Bragg's arrival brought gloom to the entire command.
While Whiting had commanded the Cape Fear District he had constantly pleaded for more troops and supplies. But when Bragg arrived on October 22, 1864, he reported the city and its defenses to be in good shape.
Bragg's Not the Man. --Old B-R'er
Bragg Comes to Wilmington-- Part 1: Quarreling With Himself
From the December 15, 2014, Wilmington (NC) Star-News "Back Then" by Scott Nunn.
Scott Nunn considered the appointment of General Braxton Bragg to command Wilmington, N.C. over Gen. W.H.C. Whiting as "one of the stranger pieces of history from the Battles of Fort Fisher." The other was Gen. Butler's powder ship.
Bragg was once a highly respected military commander, but as the war progressed, his reputation diminished. he was noted as being extremely argumentative and was deeply disliked by his subordinates.
During the Mexican War, his own troops tried to assassinate him twice.
His temper was legendary and he feuded with everyone, even himself. Once, while serving as both quartermaster and company commander he got into an argument with himself. he called out to the post commander to sort things out. Supposedly that officers said, "My God, Mr. Bragg!! You have quarreled with every officer in the army and now you are quarreling with yourself!"
A Quarrelsome Fellow. --Old B-Runner
Scott Nunn considered the appointment of General Braxton Bragg to command Wilmington, N.C. over Gen. W.H.C. Whiting as "one of the stranger pieces of history from the Battles of Fort Fisher." The other was Gen. Butler's powder ship.
Bragg was once a highly respected military commander, but as the war progressed, his reputation diminished. he was noted as being extremely argumentative and was deeply disliked by his subordinates.
During the Mexican War, his own troops tried to assassinate him twice.
His temper was legendary and he feuded with everyone, even himself. Once, while serving as both quartermaster and company commander he got into an argument with himself. he called out to the post commander to sort things out. Supposedly that officers said, "My God, Mr. Bragg!! You have quarreled with every officer in the army and now you are quarreling with yourself!"
A Quarrelsome Fellow. --Old B-Runner
Lincoln Creates Rank of Vice Admiral: Farragut Gets It
DECEMBER 23RD, 1864: President Lincoln signed a bill passed the preceding day by Congress which created the rank of vice admiral. A fortnight earlier, secretary Welles had written in his report to Lincoln: "In recommending, therefore, that the office of vice-admiral should be created, and the appointment conferred on Rear-Admiral David G. Farragut, I but respond, as I believe, to the voice and wishes of the naval service and the whole country."
Thus was Farragut made the first vice admiral in the Nation's history as he had also been the first rear admiral.
The Army-Navy Journal wrote of him: "In Farragut the ideal sailor, the seaman of nelson's and Collingwood's days, is revived, and the feeling of the people toward him is of the peculiar character as that which these great and simple-hearted heroes of Great Britain evoked in the hearts of their countrymen."
--Old B-R'er
Thus was Farragut made the first vice admiral in the Nation's history as he had also been the first rear admiral.
The Army-Navy Journal wrote of him: "In Farragut the ideal sailor, the seaman of nelson's and Collingwood's days, is revived, and the feeling of the people toward him is of the peculiar character as that which these great and simple-hearted heroes of Great Britain evoked in the hearts of their countrymen."
--Old B-R'er
Confederates Destroy the Savannah Squadron Before the Fall of the City-- Part 2
Then Thomas Brent continued: "....Under these circumstances it did not seem to me possible to carry out the instructions of the Department in regard to taking the Savannah to sea and fighting her way into this [Charleston] or some other port."
After attempting to move the smaller of his vessels upriver, Flag Officer Hunter this date destroyed the CSS Savannah, Isondiga, Firefly and floating battery Georgia,
General Sherman occupied Savannah on December 23rd, having fought his way across Georgia to the sea where he knew the mobility of the Union's seapower would be ready to provide him with support, supplies and means of carrying out his next operation, a march through South Carolina and into North Carolina.
--Old B-Runner
After attempting to move the smaller of his vessels upriver, Flag Officer Hunter this date destroyed the CSS Savannah, Isondiga, Firefly and floating battery Georgia,
General Sherman occupied Savannah on December 23rd, having fought his way across Georgia to the sea where he knew the mobility of the Union's seapower would be ready to provide him with support, supplies and means of carrying out his next operation, a march through South Carolina and into North Carolina.
--Old B-Runner
Monday, December 22, 2014
Confederates Try to Save Remnants of the Savannah Squadron-- Part 1
DECEMBER 21ST, 1864: The Confederate Navy continued vigorous efforts to save the remnants of the Savannah squadron still at the city on the eve of its capture. On 10 December Commander Thomas Brent of the CSS Savannah, ordered the torpedoes in Savannah Harbor removed in order that his vessels might fight their way to Charleston, S.C..
As Brent later reported to Flag Officer Hunter: "...after every endeavor he found that with all the appliances at his command, grapnels, etc., he was unable with the motive power of the boats to remove any of them, the anchors to which they are attached being too firmly embedded in the sand...."
--Old B-Runner
As Brent later reported to Flag Officer Hunter: "...after every endeavor he found that with all the appliances at his command, grapnels, etc., he was unable with the motive power of the boats to remove any of them, the anchors to which they are attached being too firmly embedded in the sand...."
--Old B-Runner
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Back Then, Impending Attack on Fort Fisher-- Part 4
As bad as the sand and insects were, there were several good things about being stationed at Fort Fisher. off duty, the garrison could go swimming in the ocean or river, fishing and plentiful clams and oysters.
Chris Fonvielle quotes William A. Burgess of Co. A, 40th North Carolina (3rd N.C. Artillery) in a letter to his parents, "We fare a grate deel better than the soldiers in other parts of the Confederacy."
Troops who got leave could go to Wilmington where there were plenty of folks ready to take their money. However, the leaves to Wilmington became increasingly hard to get after the appearance of yellow fever there in 1862
Scott Nunn says he will next write about the "notorious General Braxton Bragg, replacing Whiting as Wilmington's commander. (However, i have used up my "free" articles to the Wilmington Star-News, so most likely won't write about Bragg.)
--Old B-Runner
Chris Fonvielle quotes William A. Burgess of Co. A, 40th North Carolina (3rd N.C. Artillery) in a letter to his parents, "We fare a grate deel better than the soldiers in other parts of the Confederacy."
Troops who got leave could go to Wilmington where there were plenty of folks ready to take their money. However, the leaves to Wilmington became increasingly hard to get after the appearance of yellow fever there in 1862
Scott Nunn says he will next write about the "notorious General Braxton Bragg, replacing Whiting as Wilmington's commander. (However, i have used up my "free" articles to the Wilmington Star-News, so most likely won't write about Bragg.)
--Old B-Runner
The Owl Slips Out of Wilmington and Action in S.C.
DECEMBER 21ST, 1864: The Blockade runner Owl, Commander Maffitt, departed Wilmington through the Federal blockaders with a large cargo of cotton. The Owl was owned by the Confederate government and was one of several blockade runners commanded by Southern officers.
DECEMBER 20-21ST: A boat expedition from the USS Ethan Allen carried out a reconnaissance of the Altamaha River, S.C., engaging Confederate pickets and bringing off prisoners and horses,
--Old B-R'er
DECEMBER 20-21ST: A boat expedition from the USS Ethan Allen carried out a reconnaissance of the Altamaha River, S.C., engaging Confederate pickets and bringing off prisoners and horses,
--Old B-R'er
Action at Rainbow Bluff, N.C.-- Part 2
As many as 40 torpedoes were found in some bends of the river. Union troops intending to operate with the gunboats weer delayed.
By the time they were ready to advance on Rainbow Bluff, the Confederate garrison there had been strongly reinforced.
Torpedoes in the river, batteries along the banks below that point, and the difficulty of navigating the river forced the abandonment of the operation. The wrecks of the Ostego and Bazely were destroyed to prevent their falling into Confederate hands on December 25th. The expedition got back to Plymouth three days later.
--Old B-Runner
By the time they were ready to advance on Rainbow Bluff, the Confederate garrison there had been strongly reinforced.
Torpedoes in the river, batteries along the banks below that point, and the difficulty of navigating the river forced the abandonment of the operation. The wrecks of the Ostego and Bazely were destroyed to prevent their falling into Confederate hands on December 25th. The expedition got back to Plymouth three days later.
--Old B-Runner
Action at Rainbow Bluff, NC-- Part 1
DECEMBER 20TH, 1864: Boats from the USS Chicopee, Valley City and Wyalusing under the command of Commander Macomb on an expedition to engage Confederate troops at Rainbow Bluff, N.C., on the Roanoke River, were fired upon while dragging for torpedoes, seven miles below the bluff.
Macomb then put skirmishers on the banks to clear the Southerners out, but made very slow process.
After the destruction of the USS Ostego and Bazely on 9 December, the Union gunboats moved very slowly and carefully up the river, using small boats to drag for the torpedoes and were continuously harassed by riflemen on the banks.
--Old B-R'er
Macomb then put skirmishers on the banks to clear the Southerners out, but made very slow process.
After the destruction of the USS Ostego and Bazely on 9 December, the Union gunboats moved very slowly and carefully up the river, using small boats to drag for the torpedoes and were continuously harassed by riflemen on the banks.
--Old B-R'er
USS Hartford Goes In for Repairs
DECEMBER 20TH, 1864: The USS Hartford, Rear Admiral Farragut's flagship, was turned over to Rear Admiral Paulding at the New York Navy Yard for much-needed repairs.
Farragut wrote Secretary Welles: "...my flag [was] hauled down at sunset...."
Thus did the two, man and ship, who had served together so heroically for so many months together, close their active Civil War careers.
Farragut died in 1870, but his old ship survived until 1956.
--Old B-Runner
Farragut wrote Secretary Welles: "...my flag [was] hauled down at sunset...."
Thus did the two, man and ship, who had served together so heroically for so many months together, close their active Civil War careers.
Farragut died in 1870, but his old ship survived until 1956.
--Old B-Runner
Friday, December 19, 2014
CSS Water Witch Burned
DECEMBER 19TH, 1864: The CSS Water Witch, captured from the Union on June 3, 1864 in a daring attack, was burned by the Confederates in the Vernon River near Savannah, in order to prevent her capture by Sherman's troops who were getting mighty close to the city by then.
The USS Princess Royal captured schooner Cora off Galveston with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-Runner
The USS Princess Royal captured schooner Cora off Galveston with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-Runner
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Initial Fort Fisher Attack Called Off
DECEMBER 18TH, 1864: Commander Rhind and his brave crew of volunteers aboard the USS Louisiana were towed in toward Fort Fisher by the USS Wilderness to be exploded and perhaps knock down the fort.
They found the ocean swells too severe and turned back.
Major General Butler, still at Beaufort, saw the weather worsening and asked Porter to postpone the attempt to blow up his powder boat (it was his idea) until the sea was calm enough to land his troops safely.
The attack was called off.
(It is strange to me that the Navy attack was to commence without Army support being there on the scene.)
--Old B-Runner
They found the ocean swells too severe and turned back.
Major General Butler, still at Beaufort, saw the weather worsening and asked Porter to postpone the attempt to blow up his powder boat (it was his idea) until the sea was calm enough to land his troops safely.
The attack was called off.
(It is strange to me that the Navy attack was to commence without Army support being there on the scene.)
--Old B-Runner
The Powder Ship USS Louisiana Arrives Off Fort Fisher:
DECEMBER 18TH, 1864: The USS Louisiana, Commander Rhind, arrived off Fort Fisher, having that day been towed from Beaufort, North Carolina, by the USS Sassacus, in company with Rear Admiral Porter and his fleet.
The Louisiana had been loaded with powder and was to be blown up as near Fort Fisher as possible in the hope of reducing or substantially damaging that Confederate work. (In other words, they were hoping the concussion from the explosion would knock the fort down since it was made of sand and turf.)
The day before, Porter had sent Commander Rhind detailed instructions, adding: "Great risks have to be run, and there are chances that you may lose your life in this adventure; but the risk is worth the running, when the importance of the object is to be considered, and the fame to be gained by this novel undertaking, which is either to prove that forts on the water are useless or that rebels are proof against gunpowder....
"I expect more good for our cause from a success in this instance than from an advance of all the armies in the field."
--Old B-R'er
The Louisiana had been loaded with powder and was to be blown up as near Fort Fisher as possible in the hope of reducing or substantially damaging that Confederate work. (In other words, they were hoping the concussion from the explosion would knock the fort down since it was made of sand and turf.)
The day before, Porter had sent Commander Rhind detailed instructions, adding: "Great risks have to be run, and there are chances that you may lose your life in this adventure; but the risk is worth the running, when the importance of the object is to be considered, and the fame to be gained by this novel undertaking, which is either to prove that forts on the water are useless or that rebels are proof against gunpowder....
"I expect more good for our cause from a success in this instance than from an advance of all the armies in the field."
--Old B-R'er
Back Then, Impending Attack on Fort Fisher-- Part 3: Mosquitoes and Deer Flies
Another cause of discomfort were the mosquitoes. Even back to the War of 1812, attacks by these varmints almost led one group of American militia to mutiny against authorities.
And, also there were the ever present gnats, no-see-ums and seasonal deer flies. Scott Nunn said that the latter are still there at Fort Fisher. Once he was exploring the fort one humid late-summer day and got on an off-the-beaten path and was run out of the grove by a swarm of deer flies.
I can relate to that as one May day near Savannah at my sister's house, i was out in her backyard to collect Southern soil for use on the graves of Confederates buried in the North when she warned me about the deer flies. I've often encountered flies so figured perhaps they were like the big old horse flies, fairly easily avoided.
I went out to the back and stooped to get the dirt when suddenly a huge cloud of deer flies descended upon me. They were so thick I almost couldn't see and landing everywhere on me. My sister and family were watching from the house and were greatly amused to see me running full tilt out of the trees, waving my hands and yelling (well, probably screaming). It was indeed my "Great Skedaddle!"
I tell you, I hope to never have an encounter with them again.
Still Having Nightmares 'Bout 'Em. --Old Secesh
And, also there were the ever present gnats, no-see-ums and seasonal deer flies. Scott Nunn said that the latter are still there at Fort Fisher. Once he was exploring the fort one humid late-summer day and got on an off-the-beaten path and was run out of the grove by a swarm of deer flies.
I can relate to that as one May day near Savannah at my sister's house, i was out in her backyard to collect Southern soil for use on the graves of Confederates buried in the North when she warned me about the deer flies. I've often encountered flies so figured perhaps they were like the big old horse flies, fairly easily avoided.
I went out to the back and stooped to get the dirt when suddenly a huge cloud of deer flies descended upon me. They were so thick I almost couldn't see and landing everywhere on me. My sister and family were watching from the house and were greatly amused to see me running full tilt out of the trees, waving my hands and yelling (well, probably screaming). It was indeed my "Great Skedaddle!"
I tell you, I hope to never have an encounter with them again.
Still Having Nightmares 'Bout 'Em. --Old Secesh
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Back Then: The Impending Attack on Fort Fisher-- Part 2: Battling the Sand
The fort's garrison's "biggest complaint seemed to be the ubiquitous beach sand that filled every nook and cranny."
Fonvielle wrote: "Ironically, the substance of which the fort was constructed-- sand-- also caused the troops serious discomfort. Above all else, sand was a soldier's constant companion and his main source of discontentment at Fort Fisher.
"Sand was everywhere-- as far as your eye could see-- and the granules had a nasty way of getting into everything a soldier owned: his uniform, brogans, blanket, rifle musket and food. There was no refuge from it. and it gave no mercy."
--Old B-R'er
Fonvielle wrote: "Ironically, the substance of which the fort was constructed-- sand-- also caused the troops serious discomfort. Above all else, sand was a soldier's constant companion and his main source of discontentment at Fort Fisher.
"Sand was everywhere-- as far as your eye could see-- and the granules had a nasty way of getting into everything a soldier owned: his uniform, brogans, blanket, rifle musket and food. There was no refuge from it. and it gave no mercy."
--Old B-R'er
Back Then: The Impending Attack on Fort Fisher-- Part 1
From the December 5, 2014, Wilmington (NC) Star-News "Back Then" by Scott Nunn.
Tjhis article was based on Chris Fonvielle's book "The Wilmington Campaign: Last Rays of Departing Hope." Scott Nunn doubts that anyone knows more about Wilmington and Fort fisher than this man. I agree. Fonvielle is the author of at least five books on this subject.
People had to wonder why Fort Fisher, the Cape Fear River and Wilmington had stayed under Confederate control for so long, even as its importance grew substantially throughout the war. The North did nothing, nor, for that matter did the South do much to protect. general lee repeatedly turned down requests from Wilmington's commander, Major General W.H.C. Whiting for reinforcements. Confederate authorities believed Whiting was exaggerating the need.
The fort was commanded by Col. William Lamb. The garrison passed its time keeping Fort Fisher in good shape, placing cannons, drilling and making it larger and more defensible.
--Old B-Runner
Tjhis article was based on Chris Fonvielle's book "The Wilmington Campaign: Last Rays of Departing Hope." Scott Nunn doubts that anyone knows more about Wilmington and Fort fisher than this man. I agree. Fonvielle is the author of at least five books on this subject.
People had to wonder why Fort Fisher, the Cape Fear River and Wilmington had stayed under Confederate control for so long, even as its importance grew substantially throughout the war. The North did nothing, nor, for that matter did the South do much to protect. general lee repeatedly turned down requests from Wilmington's commander, Major General W.H.C. Whiting for reinforcements. Confederate authorities believed Whiting was exaggerating the need.
The fort was commanded by Col. William Lamb. The garrison passed its time keeping Fort Fisher in good shape, placing cannons, drilling and making it larger and more defensible.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Dangerous Reconnaissance Off New Inlet, N.C.
DECEMBER 16-17TH, 1864: Acting master Charles A Petit, USS Monticello, performed a dangerous reconnaissance off New Inlet, N.C. removing several Confederate torpedoes and their firing apparatus near the base of Fort Caswell.
Petit's expedition was part of the Union's extensive preparations for the bombardment and assault on Fort Fisher and the defenses of Wilmington, planned for late December.
Note: New Inlet is by Fort Fisher and Old Inlet is by Fort Caswell. The USS Monticello was William Cushing's ship.
--Old B-Runner
Petit's expedition was part of the Union's extensive preparations for the bombardment and assault on Fort Fisher and the defenses of Wilmington, planned for late December.
Note: New Inlet is by Fort Fisher and Old Inlet is by Fort Caswell. The USS Monticello was William Cushing's ship.
--Old B-Runner
Action in Virginia and North Carolina
DECEMBER 15TH, 1864: An expedition including the USS Cour De Lion and USS Mercury seized and burned more than 30 large boats which the Confederates had been massing on the Coan River, Virginia, and drove off defending soldiers in a brief engagement.
DECEMBER 16TH, 1864:The USS Mount Vernon and USS New Bern captured and burned the schooner G.O. Bigelow in ballast at Bear Island, N.C..
--Old B-R'er
DECEMBER 16TH, 1864:The USS Mount Vernon and USS New Bern captured and burned the schooner G.O. Bigelow in ballast at Bear Island, N.C..
--Old B-R'er
Naval Action at Battle of Nashville-- Part 2
"I therefore maneuvered around above them till the afternoon, when our cavalry had reached the desired position in the rear; the USS Neosho and Carondolet then moved down again and the rebels, finding the position they were in, had tried to remove the guns, but were too late; our cavalry closed in and took them with but little resistance."
The Union gunboats then engaged other batteries down the river, in some cases silencing them with gunfire and others absorbing the attention of the Confederate gunners while Union cavalry encircled them.
By the afternoon of 15 December, Hood's batteries on the Cumberland River had been captured and his left flank, further inland, was in full retreat.
In reply to President Lincoln's congratulations on the big victory, Thomas remarked: "I must not forget to report the operations of Brigadier-General Johnson in successfully driving the enemy, with cooperation of the gunboats under Lieutenant Commander Fitch, from the established batteries on the Cumberland River below the City of Nashville...."
An Oft-Overlooked Aspect of the Battle. --Old B-Runner
The Union gunboats then engaged other batteries down the river, in some cases silencing them with gunfire and others absorbing the attention of the Confederate gunners while Union cavalry encircled them.
By the afternoon of 15 December, Hood's batteries on the Cumberland River had been captured and his left flank, further inland, was in full retreat.
In reply to President Lincoln's congratulations on the big victory, Thomas remarked: "I must not forget to report the operations of Brigadier-General Johnson in successfully driving the enemy, with cooperation of the gunboats under Lieutenant Commander Fitch, from the established batteries on the Cumberland River below the City of Nashville...."
An Oft-Overlooked Aspect of the Battle. --Old B-Runner
Naval Action at Battle of Nashville-- Part 1
DECEMBER 15-16, 1864: As Major general George Thomas opened his offensive in the Battle of Nashville, gunboats of the Mississippi Squadron, commanded by Lt.Cmdr. Fitch, operated closely with the Union Army by engaging batteries on the Cumberland River and helping secure a resounding victory for Thomas.
On the night of Dec. 14th, Fitch, together with the seven gunboats of his command, had moved down toward the main Confederate battery guarding the river and Major General Forrest's far left.
Fitch described the joint effort: "Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Howard then returned to where I was, just above their works, and reported but four guns in position. These I could have easily silenced and driven off, but our army had not yet sufficiently advanced to insure their capture."
--Old B-R'er
On the night of Dec. 14th, Fitch, together with the seven gunboats of his command, had moved down toward the main Confederate battery guarding the river and Major General Forrest's far left.
Fitch described the joint effort: "Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Howard then returned to where I was, just above their works, and reported but four guns in position. These I could have easily silenced and driven off, but our army had not yet sufficiently advanced to insure their capture."
--Old B-R'er
Confederate Forts in Savannah's Outer Defenses Captured
DECEMBER 14-21ST, 1864: Union gunboats supporting general Sherman's advance aided in the capture of Forts Beaulieu and Rosedew in Ossabow Sound, Georgia, the outer defenses of Savannah. Wooden steamer USS Winona, USS Sonoma and mortar gunboats shelled the forts until they were abandoned 21 December.
The Winona's log entry for that date: "At 10:05 saw the American Ensign flying on Fort Beaulieu. Ships ; captain left in gig and proceeded up to the fort."
--Old B-Runner
The Winona's log entry for that date: "At 10:05 saw the American Ensign flying on Fort Beaulieu. Ships ; captain left in gig and proceeded up to the fort."
--Old B-Runner
Monday, December 15, 2014
Lincoln Lauds William B. Cushing
DECEMBER 15TH, 1864: President Lincoln wrote in a message to Congress: "I most cordially recommend that Lieutenant William B. Cushing, U.S. Navy, receive a vote of thanks from Congress for his important, gallant, and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel ironclad steamer Albemarle on the night of the 27th October, 1864, at Plymouth, N.C.
"The destruction of so formidable a vessel, which had resisted the continued attacks of a number of our vessels on former occasions, is an important event touching our future naval and military operations, and would reflect honor on any officer, and redounds to the credit of this young officer and the few brave comrades who assisted in this successful and daring undertaking."
Now, if the President had at the same time recommended a Medal of Honor for Lt. Cushing, it would not be necessary to have to work for his receiving one now. especially in light of one of the men with him receiving one.
Give Cushing a Medal of Honor. --Old B-R'er
"The destruction of so formidable a vessel, which had resisted the continued attacks of a number of our vessels on former occasions, is an important event touching our future naval and military operations, and would reflect honor on any officer, and redounds to the credit of this young officer and the few brave comrades who assisted in this successful and daring undertaking."
Now, if the President had at the same time recommended a Medal of Honor for Lt. Cushing, it would not be necessary to have to work for his receiving one now. especially in light of one of the men with him receiving one.
Give Cushing a Medal of Honor. --Old B-R'er
Don't Give Up the Ships (In Savannah)
DECEMBER 14TH, 1864: Foreseeing the fall of Savannah, Secretary Mallory wrote wrote Flag Officer Hunter, commanding the naval squadron at that city: "Should the enemy get ahold of Savannah, and you can do no further service there, you are expected to dispose of your squadron to the greatest injury to him and the greatest benefit to our country.
"If necessary to leave Savannah, your vessels, except the Georgia, may fight their way to Charleston. Under circumstances should they be destroyed until every proper effort to save them shall have been exhausted."
Three days later, Captain S. S. Lee, CSN, addressed a similar letter to Hinter: "Under any circumstances, it is better for the vessels, the Navy, for our cause and country, that these vessels should fall in the conflict of battle, taking all the risks of defeat and triumph, than that they should be tamely surrendered to the enemy or destroyed by their own officers."
Like I Said, Don't Give Up the Ships. --Old B-Runner
"If necessary to leave Savannah, your vessels, except the Georgia, may fight their way to Charleston. Under circumstances should they be destroyed until every proper effort to save them shall have been exhausted."
Three days later, Captain S. S. Lee, CSN, addressed a similar letter to Hinter: "Under any circumstances, it is better for the vessels, the Navy, for our cause and country, that these vessels should fall in the conflict of battle, taking all the risks of defeat and triumph, than that they should be tamely surrendered to the enemy or destroyed by their own officers."
Like I Said, Don't Give Up the Ships. --Old B-Runner
Huge Union Fleet Departs Hampton Roads for Fort Fisher Attack
DECEMBER 13TH, 1864:a The Union fleet massed for the bombardment of Fort Fisher departed Hampton Roads for Wilmington. Wooden double-ender USS Sassacus was assigned to tow the powder ship Louisiana to Beaufort, N.C. where she was to take on more powder.
Army transports carrying the invasion force commanded by Major General Butler left Hampton Roads at approximately the same time as the supporting naval group.
--Old B-R'er
Army transports carrying the invasion force commanded by Major General Butler left Hampton Roads at approximately the same time as the supporting naval group.
--Old B-R'er
Raphael Semmes Back in the Confederacy-- Part 2
DECEMBER 13, 1864: Semmes described the night crossing of the Mississippi River in a crowded skiff: "Our boat was scarcely able to float the numbers that were packed into her.... As we shot within the shadows of the opposite bank, our conductor, before landing, gave a shrill whistle to ascertain whether all was right.
"the proper response came directly, from those who were to meet us, and in a moment more, we leaped on shore among friends."
Federal forces on the river had been alerted in an effort to capture the elusive Captain Semmes of the CSS Alabama, but he succeeded in getting home, and later to Richmond, to receive the thanks of the Confederacy and promotion to the rank of Rear Admiral.
--Old B-Runner
"the proper response came directly, from those who were to meet us, and in a moment more, we leaped on shore among friends."
Federal forces on the river had been alerted in an effort to capture the elusive Captain Semmes of the CSS Alabama, but he succeeded in getting home, and later to Richmond, to receive the thanks of the Confederacy and promotion to the rank of Rear Admiral.
--Old B-Runner
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Raphael Semmes Back in the Confederacy-- Part 1: Lots of Blockaders
DECEMBER 13TH, 1864: Returning to the Confederacy from London, Captain Semmes had landed the month before in Bagdad, Mexico, near Matamoras. This date, en route to his home in Mobile for a brief respite before making his way to Richmond, Semmes crossed the Mississippi River with his son, Major O.J. Semmes.
He later wrote: "We reached the bank of the Mississippi just before dark. There were two of the enemy's gunboats anchored in the river, at a distance of about three miles apart...the enemy had converted every sort of water craft, into a ship of war, and now had them in such number, that he was enabled to police the river in its entire length, without the necessity of his boats being out of sight of of each other's smoke...."
--Old B-R'er
He later wrote: "We reached the bank of the Mississippi just before dark. There were two of the enemy's gunboats anchored in the river, at a distance of about three miles apart...the enemy had converted every sort of water craft, into a ship of war, and now had them in such number, that he was enabled to police the river in its entire length, without the necessity of his boats being out of sight of of each other's smoke...."
--Old B-R'er
Farragut Arrives in New York to Great Fanfare
DECEMBER 13TH, 1864: Rear Admiral Farragut arrived in New York on board his battle-scarred flagship, USS Hartford.
A New York newspaper hailed his return in verse:
To Farragut all glory!
The Sea-King's worthy peer,
Columbia's greatest seaman, Without reproach or fear.
--Old B-Runner
A New York newspaper hailed his return in verse:
To Farragut all glory!
The Sea-King's worthy peer,
Columbia's greatest seaman, Without reproach or fear.
--Old B-Runner
Friday, December 12, 2014
Sherman Arrives Near Savannah
DECEMBER 12TH, 1964: Rear Admiral Dahlgren wrote to President Lincoln, reporting news of the greatest importance to the Union: "I have the great satisfaction of conveying to you information of the arrival of General Sherman's near Savannah, with his army in fine spirits.... This memorable event must be attended by still more memorable consequences, and I congratulate you most heartily on its occurrence."
The value of seaborne supply to Sherman was inestimable. His army switched from rail logistics in Chattanooga to sea logistics on the Atlantic.
Getting In On the Glory. --Old Secesh
The value of seaborne supply to Sherman was inestimable. His army switched from rail logistics in Chattanooga to sea logistics on the Atlantic.
Getting In On the Glory. --Old Secesh
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Fort Fisher Re-enactment Last Weekend
From the December 1, 2014, Wilmington (NC) Star-News "Fort Fisher showcases Civil War artillery."
The sights and sounds of Civil War artillery was highlighted from 10-4 this past Saturday, December 6th at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site in the "WE Kept Our Courage Up: Artillery of Fort Fisher."
This was a precursor of the huge re-enactment to take place at the fort in January to mark the 150th anniversary of the fort's fall. There were re-enactment camps showing the lives of soldiers, sailors and Marines from both sides and it is free and open to the public.
Fort Fisher's 32-pounder seacoast rifled and banded cannon at Sheppard's Battery will be fired at 10, noon, 2 and 4. Costumed interpreters will explain the drill and equipment of the cannon before each firing.
Fort Fisher is located near the southern terminus of US-421, south of Kure Beach, North Carolina.
It is too bad I live so far away as I sure would have liked to have been there.
Oh Well. Perhaps I Will be Able to Make the 150th Anniversary of It. --Old B-R'er
The sights and sounds of Civil War artillery was highlighted from 10-4 this past Saturday, December 6th at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site in the "WE Kept Our Courage Up: Artillery of Fort Fisher."
This was a precursor of the huge re-enactment to take place at the fort in January to mark the 150th anniversary of the fort's fall. There were re-enactment camps showing the lives of soldiers, sailors and Marines from both sides and it is free and open to the public.
Fort Fisher's 32-pounder seacoast rifled and banded cannon at Sheppard's Battery will be fired at 10, noon, 2 and 4. Costumed interpreters will explain the drill and equipment of the cannon before each firing.
Fort Fisher is located near the southern terminus of US-421, south of Kure Beach, North Carolina.
It is too bad I live so far away as I sure would have liked to have been there.
Oh Well. Perhaps I Will be Able to Make the 150th Anniversary of It. --Old B-R'er
New Confederate "Explosive Ball"
DECEMBER 11TH, 1864: Commander George H. Preble, commanding the Naval Brigade fighting ashore with the forces of Major General Foster up the Broad River, South Carolina, reported to Rear Admiral Dahlgren concerning a unique "explosive ball" used by Confederate forces against his skirmishers: "It had a conical ball in shape, like an ordinary bullet.
"The pointed end is charged with a fulminate. The base of the ball separates from the conical end, and has a leaden standard or plunger. The explosion of the charge drives the base up, so as to flatten a thin disk of metal between it and the ball, the leaden plunger is driven against the fulminate, and it explodes the ball.... It seems to me that the use of such a missile is an unnecessary addition to the barbarities of war."
I didn't quite follow how it operated, but I sure wouldn't want to get hit by one of these.
Those Nasty Confederates. --Old Secesh
"The pointed end is charged with a fulminate. The base of the ball separates from the conical end, and has a leaden standard or plunger. The explosion of the charge drives the base up, so as to flatten a thin disk of metal between it and the ball, the leaden plunger is driven against the fulminate, and it explodes the ball.... It seems to me that the use of such a missile is an unnecessary addition to the barbarities of war."
I didn't quite follow how it operated, but I sure wouldn't want to get hit by one of these.
Those Nasty Confederates. --Old Secesh
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Hey Navy/Marine Re-Enactors, Time's Running Out to Sign Up for Fort Fisher 150th!
From the Dec. 9, 2014, Civil War Navy and Marine Forum Digest #208.
Andrew Duppstadt reminded everyone that the registration deadline for the 150th Fort Fisher re-enactment is just one week away, Dec. 15th. He urges that you get it in. If you need any help, contact him.
I am thinking about attending this since I am such a big Fort Fisher nut. I am not, however, a re-enactor.
--Old B-Runner
Andrew Duppstadt reminded everyone that the registration deadline for the 150th Fort Fisher re-enactment is just one week away, Dec. 15th. He urges that you get it in. If you need any help, contact him.
I am thinking about attending this since I am such a big Fort Fisher nut. I am not, however, a re-enactor.
--Old B-Runner
Confederate Gunboats On the Move on the Savannah River
DECEMBER 10-12TH, 1864: The CSS Macon, CSS Sampson and CSS Resolute, under Flag Officer Hunter took Union shore batteries under fire at Tweedside on the Savannah River. Hunter attempted to run his gunboats downriver to join in the defense of Savannah, but was unable to pass the strong Federal batteries.
The Resolute was disable din this exchange of of fire December 12th, and was abandoned and captured. Recognizing that he could not get his remaining two vessels to Savannah, and having to destroy the railroad bridge over the Savannah River that he had been defending, Hunter took advantage of the unusually high water to move upstream to Augusta.
Also this date: The USS O.H. Lee captured the British schooner Sort off Anclote Keys, Florida, with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-R'er
The Resolute was disable din this exchange of of fire December 12th, and was abandoned and captured. Recognizing that he could not get his remaining two vessels to Savannah, and having to destroy the railroad bridge over the Savannah River that he had been defending, Hunter took advantage of the unusually high water to move upstream to Augusta.
Also this date: The USS O.H. Lee captured the British schooner Sort off Anclote Keys, Florida, with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-R'er
More Blockade-Runners Captured
DECEMBER 8TH, 1864: The USS J.P. Jackson and USS Stockdale capture the blockade-running schooner Medora in Mississippi Sound with cargo of cotton.
The USS Cherokee captured blockade-running British steamer Emma Henry off the coast of North Carolina with cargo of cotton.
The USS Itasca chased blockade-running sloop Mary Ann ashore at Pass Cavallo, Texas. After removing its cargo of cotton, it was destroyed.
--Old B-Runner
The USS Cherokee captured blockade-running British steamer Emma Henry off the coast of North Carolina with cargo of cotton.
The USS Itasca chased blockade-running sloop Mary Ann ashore at Pass Cavallo, Texas. After removing its cargo of cotton, it was destroyed.
--Old B-Runner
Blockade-Runner Stormy Petrel Run Ashore Off Wilmington
DECEMBER 7TH, 1864: Blockade-Running steamer Stormy Petrel was run ashore and fired upon by gunboats of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron while attempting to enter Wilmington. the ship was totally wrecked a few days later by a gale.
In his report of the incident, Rear Admiral Porter remarked: "In the last fifty days we have captured or destroyed $5,500,000 worth of the enemy's property in blockade runners. To submit to these losses and still run the blockade shows the immense gains the runners make and the straits the enemy are in."
The Noose is Tightening. --Old B-R'er
In his report of the incident, Rear Admiral Porter remarked: "In the last fifty days we have captured or destroyed $5,500,000 worth of the enemy's property in blockade runners. To submit to these losses and still run the blockade shows the immense gains the runners make and the straits the enemy are in."
The Noose is Tightening. --Old B-R'er
USS Narcissus Sunk by Torpedo in Mobile Bay
DECEMBER 7TH, 1864: The USS Narcissus struck a Confederate torpedo in a heavy storm while lying off the city of Mobile. Its commander, Acting Ensign William G. Jones, reported: "...the vessel struck a torpedo, which exploded, lifting her nearly out of the water and breaking out a large hole in the starboard side, amidships...causing the vessel to sink in about fifteen minutes."
The tug went down without loss of life and was raised later in the month.
Mobile Bay was in Union hands, but Southern torpedoes took a heavy toll on their ships. And, Mobile was still in Confederate hands.
--Old B-Runner
The tug went down without loss of life and was raised later in the month.
Mobile Bay was in Union hands, but Southern torpedoes took a heavy toll on their ships. And, Mobile was still in Confederate hands.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
USS Ostego Sunk by Torpedoes in the Roanoke River, N.C.
DECEMBER 9TH, 1864: The USS Ostego sank in the Roanoke River near Jamesville, North Carolina, after striking two torpedoes in quick succession. The double-ended Ostego, along with the USS Wyalusing, Valley City and tugs Belle and Bazely had formed an expedition to capture Rainbow Bluff on the Roanoke River, and to investigate the Confederate ram reported to be building at Halifax.
Commander Macomb anchored his squadron at Jamesville to await the arrival of cooperating Union troops and the Ostego struck two torpedoes while anchoring.
The Bazely came alongside to lend assistance and also struck a torpedo and sank instantly.
Lt. Cmdr. Arnold and part of his crew remained on board the sunken Ostego to cover that portion of the river with the guns remaining above water on the hurricane deck.
The resrt of the group moved upriver, dragging for torpedoes, to commence their attack on Rainbow Bluff which took place December 20th.
--Old B-R'er
Commander Macomb anchored his squadron at Jamesville to await the arrival of cooperating Union troops and the Ostego struck two torpedoes while anchoring.
The Bazely came alongside to lend assistance and also struck a torpedo and sank instantly.
Lt. Cmdr. Arnold and part of his crew remained on board the sunken Ostego to cover that portion of the river with the guns remaining above water on the hurricane deck.
The resrt of the group moved upriver, dragging for torpedoes, to commence their attack on Rainbow Bluff which took place December 20th.
--Old B-R'er
Fitch Returns Later in the Day
DECEMBER 6TH, 1864: Undaunted, Leroy Fitch returned to the scene of the battle later in the day, this time accompanied by the ironclad USS Carondelet and again engaged those pesky batteries. This time, he chose a different firing position and disabled some of the Confederate guns..
Attesting to the endurance of the Neosho under fire, Fitch was able to report to Rear Admiral Lee: "During the day the Neosho was struck over a hundred times, but received no injury whatever.
--Old B-R'er
Attesting to the endurance of the Neosho under fire, Fitch was able to report to Rear Admiral Lee: "During the day the Neosho was struck over a hundred times, but received no injury whatever.
--Old B-R'er
Medal of Honor in Previous Action Entry
DECEMBER 6TH, 1864: During this action, Quartermaster John Ditzenback, seeing the USS Neosho's ensign shot away by the concentrated Southern fire, coolly left the pilot house, and, despite the deadly shot raking the Neosho's decks, took the flag which was drooping over the wheelhouse and made it fast tp the stump of the highest mast remaining.
For this courageous act Ditzenback was awarded the Medal of Honor.
--Old B-Runner
For this courageous act Ditzenback was awarded the Medal of Honor.
--Old B-Runner
More Fighting on the Cumberland River in Tennessee
DECEMBER 6TH, 1864: The USS Neosho, with Lt.-Cmdr. LeRoy Fitch aboard, embarked with three small steamers: USS Fairplay, Silver Lake and Moose and several Army transports and moved down the Cumberland River from Nashville to engage Confederate batteries near Bell's Mills, Tennessee.
The Neosho was an ironclad and took the lead and single-handedly engaged the Confederates. Fitch sailed to within 20-30 yards to test his ship's strength and to fire canister and grape shot at that distance: "Our fire was slow and deliberate, but soon had the effect to scatter the enemy's sharpshooters and infantry, but owing to the elevated position of the batteries directly over us we could do but little injury.
"The enemy's fire was terrific, and in a very few minutes everything perishable on our decks was completely demolished."
Fitch returned to Nashville with the lighter ships.
--Old B-R'er
The Neosho was an ironclad and took the lead and single-handedly engaged the Confederates. Fitch sailed to within 20-30 yards to test his ship's strength and to fire canister and grape shot at that distance: "Our fire was slow and deliberate, but soon had the effect to scatter the enemy's sharpshooters and infantry, but owing to the elevated position of the batteries directly over us we could do but little injury.
"The enemy's fire was terrific, and in a very few minutes everything perishable on our decks was completely demolished."
Fitch returned to Nashville with the lighter ships.
--Old B-R'er
More Blockade Runners Seized
DECEMBER 6TH, 1864: USS Chocura, Lt.-Cmdr. Meade, seized blockade-running British schooner Lady Hurley off Velasco, Texas, with cargo including bar iron, steel, salt and medicines. The Lady Hurley, according to Meade, was the consort of the Carrie Mair, captured by the USS Itasca a few days earlier. She was the third prize taken by Meade in as few days as the Union blockade got tighter on the Texas coast. Lots of crew prize money.
The USS Princess Royal captured blockade-running schooner Alabama after driving her aground near San Luis Pass, Texas. Her crew abandoned ship and a boarding party worked her free and took the prize to Galveston. Her cargo included iron bars, rope, flour and soda.
USS Sunflower seized blockade-running sloop Pickwick off St. George's Sound, Florida.
The USS Princess Royal captured blockade-running schooner Alabama after driving her aground near San Luis Pass, Texas. Her crew abandoned ship and a boarding party worked her free and took the prize to Galveston. Her cargo included iron bars, rope, flour and soda.
USS Sunflower seized blockade-running sloop Pickwick off St. George's Sound, Florida.
Fighting in Georgia
DECEMBER 5-9, 1864: The naval landing force under Commander Preble participated in heavy fighting around Tulifinny Crossroads, Georgia, while federal troops attempted to cut the vital Savannah-Charleston Railway and join with the advancing forces of General Sherman.
The Naval Brigade was withdrawn from Boyd's Landing, Broad River, on 5 December, and while Union gunboats made a feint against the Coosawwatchie River fortifications, soldiers and sailors landed up the nearby Tulifinny River.
During the next four days, the versatile naval brigade participated in a series of nearly continuous heavy actions, though plagued by rain and swampy terrain. Union forces advanced close enough to the strategic railway to shell it but failed to destroy it.
--Old B-Runner
The Naval Brigade was withdrawn from Boyd's Landing, Broad River, on 5 December, and while Union gunboats made a feint against the Coosawwatchie River fortifications, soldiers and sailors landed up the nearby Tulifinny River.
During the next four days, the versatile naval brigade participated in a series of nearly continuous heavy actions, though plagued by rain and swampy terrain. Union forces advanced close enough to the strategic railway to shell it but failed to destroy it.
--Old B-Runner
Monday, December 8, 2014
Plans for the Powder Vessel at Fort Fisher
DECEMBER 8TH, 1864: Rear Admiral Porter wrote to Lt. Cmdr Watmough, senior officer off New Inlet, North Carolina, regarding the plan to explode a vessel laden with powder off Fort Fisher: "I propose running a vessel drawing 8 1/2 feet (as near to Fort fisher as possible) with 350 tons of powder, exploding her by running her upon the outside and opposite Fort Fisher.
"My calculations are that the explosion will wind up Fort Fisher and the works along the beach, and that we can open fire with the vessels without damage."
Major general Butler had suggested the powder ship late in November, and Porter, anxious to get the long-delayed Wilmington attack underway, agreed to attempt his unlikely means of reducing the fort before the landing.
--Old B-R'er
"My calculations are that the explosion will wind up Fort Fisher and the works along the beach, and that we can open fire with the vessels without damage."
Major general Butler had suggested the powder ship late in November, and Porter, anxious to get the long-delayed Wilmington attack underway, agreed to attempt his unlikely means of reducing the fort before the landing.
--Old B-R'er
Confederates Capture Tug Lizzie Freeman in Virginia
DECEMBER 5, 2014,: Confederate force under Acting Master William A. Hines, CSN, captured tug Lizzie Freeman by boarding near Smithfield, Virginia. The daring raid took place shortly before midnight while the Union tug, with two Army officers on board, lay at anchor.
USS Chocura, Lt. Cmdr. Meade, seized blockade-running British schooner Julia south of Velasco, Texas, with cargo including bar iron, medicines, cotton bagging and rope.
DECEMBER 5-6TH, 1864: Monitors USS Saugus, Onondaga, Mahopac and Canonicus (most of them at the Battle of Fort Fisher 19 days later) participated in a lively engagement with strong shore batteries at Howlett's, James River, Virginia. The Saugus received a solid 7-inch shot which disabled her turret.
--Old B-Runner
USS Chocura, Lt. Cmdr. Meade, seized blockade-running British schooner Julia south of Velasco, Texas, with cargo including bar iron, medicines, cotton bagging and rope.
DECEMBER 5-6TH, 1864: Monitors USS Saugus, Onondaga, Mahopac and Canonicus (most of them at the Battle of Fort Fisher 19 days later) participated in a lively engagement with strong shore batteries at Howlett's, James River, Virginia. The Saugus received a solid 7-inch shot which disabled her turret.
--Old B-Runner
Blockade-Runner Armstrong Captured Off Wilmington
DECEMBER 4TH, 1864: The USS R.R. Cuyler, USS Mackinaw and USS Gettysburg, captured blockade running steamer Armstrong at sea. The Cuyler and Gettysburg, joined by the USS Montgomery, picked up a number of bales of cotton thrown overboard by the Armstrong during the chase.
The Mackinaw had earlier in the day captured the brig Hattie E. Wheeler with a cargo of sugar.
Good Prize Money. --Old B-R'er
The Mackinaw had earlier in the day captured the brig Hattie E. Wheeler with a cargo of sugar.
Good Prize Money. --Old B-R'er
CSS Shenandoah Captures and Burns Whaling Ship
DECEMBER 4TH, 1864: The CSS Shenandoah captured and burned whaling bark Edward off Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic. Lt. Waddell noted in his journal: "Her outfit was of excellent quality, and I lay by her two days supplying the steamer with deficiencies.... Two of her boats were new, and took the place of my old and worthless ones."
--Old B-Runner
--Old B-Runner
Sunday, December 7, 2014
December 7, 1941
From the December 6, 2014, Whidbey (Washington) News-Times "Story of Pearl Harbor survivors to be shared Dec. 7" by Janis Reid.
PART 2
Continued from today's Saw the Elephant blog. This is always a day to remember and be prepared.
Gail Vyskocil will share her late husband James' Pearl Harbor story as part of the Pearl Harbor Day remembrance today at 12:30 p.m. in the chapel at Ault Field.
The Cascade Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association has lost many members in the last several years and is now down to just a few.
Her remarks will come from a speech James gave. James was a signal man third class that day.
PART 2
Continued from today's Saw the Elephant blog. This is always a day to remember and be prepared.
Gail Vyskocil will share her late husband James' Pearl Harbor story as part of the Pearl Harbor Day remembrance today at 12:30 p.m. in the chapel at Ault Field.
The Cascade Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association has lost many members in the last several years and is now down to just a few.
Her remarks will come from a speech James gave. James was a signal man third class that day.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
150 Years Ago: Grant Writes Butler About Wilmington Expedition
DECEMBER 6TH, 1864: Major general Grant wrote Major General Butler regarding the objectives of the proposed joint expedition against Wilmington, one of the most ambitious of the war: "The first object of the expedition under General Weitzel is to close the port of Wilmington.
"If successful in this, the second will to be capture Wilmington itself....The object of the expedition will be gained by effecting a landing on the mainland between Caope Fear River and the Atlantic north of the north entrance to the river, then the troops should entrench themselves, and by cooperating with the Navy effect a reduction and capture of those places.
"These in our hands, the Navy could enter the harbor and the port of Wilmington would be sealed."
Old B-R'er
"If successful in this, the second will to be capture Wilmington itself....The object of the expedition will be gained by effecting a landing on the mainland between Caope Fear River and the Atlantic north of the north entrance to the river, then the troops should entrench themselves, and by cooperating with the Navy effect a reduction and capture of those places.
"These in our hands, the Navy could enter the harbor and the port of Wilmington would be sealed."
Old B-R'er
Naval Activity Early December 1864
DECEMBER 3RD, 1864: Boat expedition from USS Nita, Stars and Stripes, Hendrick Hudson, Ariel and Two Sisters destroyed a large salt work at Rocky Point, Tampa Bay, Florida.
USS Mackinaw captured schooner Mary at sea off Charleston with cargo of cotton, tobacco and turpentine.
DECEMBER 4TH, 1864: USS Chocura, Lt.Cmdr. Richard. Meade, captured schooner Lowood south of Velasco, Texas, with cargo of cotton. Calling the Lowood "a notorious blockade runner", Meade said" "We had been watching this schooner for some time and finally laid a trap for her, which had proved successful."
USS Pembina seized blockade running Dutch brig Geziena Hilligonda near Brazos Santiago, Texas, with cargo including medicines, iron and cloth.
Boats from the USS Pursuit captured Peep O'Day near Indian River, Florida, with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-Runner
USS Mackinaw captured schooner Mary at sea off Charleston with cargo of cotton, tobacco and turpentine.
DECEMBER 4TH, 1864: USS Chocura, Lt.Cmdr. Richard. Meade, captured schooner Lowood south of Velasco, Texas, with cargo of cotton. Calling the Lowood "a notorious blockade runner", Meade said" "We had been watching this schooner for some time and finally laid a trap for her, which had proved successful."
USS Pembina seized blockade running Dutch brig Geziena Hilligonda near Brazos Santiago, Texas, with cargo including medicines, iron and cloth.
Boats from the USS Pursuit captured Peep O'Day near Indian River, Florida, with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-Runner
Action on the Cumberland River
DECEMBER 3-4TH, 1864: The USS Moose, Carondolet, Fairplay Reindeer and Silver Lake engaged Confederate field batteries on the Cumberland River near Bell's Mills, Tennessee, silencing them and recaptured three transports taken the day before.
The gunboats were protecting General Thomas' right flank before Nashville, had started down the river on the night of the 2nd after hearing that Confederate troops under General Forrest had erected a battery at Bell's Mills. They succeeded in surprising the Confederates and a sharp engagement ensued.
The ships returned to Nashville with valuable information on the composition and strength of Southern forces that proved vital in the upcoming Battle of Nashville.
--Old B-R'er
The gunboats were protecting General Thomas' right flank before Nashville, had started down the river on the night of the 2nd after hearing that Confederate troops under General Forrest had erected a battery at Bell's Mills. They succeeded in surprising the Confederates and a sharp engagement ensued.
The ships returned to Nashville with valuable information on the composition and strength of Southern forces that proved vital in the upcoming Battle of Nashville.
--Old B-R'er
Secretary Welles' 4th Annual Report to Lincoln-- Part 2
"Over fifty such results have occurred since Rear-Admiral Dahlgren anchored his monitor inside of Charleston bar and closed that port to commerce."
By this date the United States Navy, consisting of only 42 ships on active duty in March 1861, had grown to 671 ships mounting more than 4,600 guns. A total of 203 ships had been built for naval service since March 1861, including 62 ironclads.
The growing force had ringed the South with an increasingly close blockade, which, by December 1864 had taken nearly 1,400 prizes. In addition, Welles noted that four ships had been lost to the Southern naval cause in the course of the year: the commerce raiders Alabama, Florida and Georgia, and the fearsome ram Albemarle.
Moreover, the last major Gulf port had been closed by the Union victory at Mobile Bay. The fierce engagement, Welles wrote, was one which "in many respects [is] one of the most remarkable on record, and which added new lustre even to the renown of Rear-Admiral Farragut...."
Doing a Swell Job. --Old B-Runner
By this date the United States Navy, consisting of only 42 ships on active duty in March 1861, had grown to 671 ships mounting more than 4,600 guns. A total of 203 ships had been built for naval service since March 1861, including 62 ironclads.
The growing force had ringed the South with an increasingly close blockade, which, by December 1864 had taken nearly 1,400 prizes. In addition, Welles noted that four ships had been lost to the Southern naval cause in the course of the year: the commerce raiders Alabama, Florida and Georgia, and the fearsome ram Albemarle.
Moreover, the last major Gulf port had been closed by the Union victory at Mobile Bay. The fierce engagement, Welles wrote, was one which "in many respects [is] one of the most remarkable on record, and which added new lustre even to the renown of Rear-Admiral Farragut...."
Doing a Swell Job. --Old B-Runner
Friday, December 5, 2014
Secretary Welle's 4th Annual report to the President-- Part 1
DECEMBER 5TH, 1864: In his fourth annual report to Lincoln, Welles noted the great impact on the Confederacy made by Union seapower. Of the tireless blockaders, he wrote: "The blockade of the coastline...greater in extent than the whole coast of Europe from Cape Trafalgar to Cape north is an undertaking without precedent in history."
Welles observed that while successful runs through the blockade brought huge profits, "the blockade has not been violated with impunity. Heavy losses have befallen most of those who have engaged in the illicit trade. Sixty-five steamers, the aggregate value of which, with their cargoes, will scarcely fall short of thirteen millions of dollars, have been captured or destroyed in attempting to enter of escape Wilmington."
More to Come. --Old B-Runner
Welles observed that while successful runs through the blockade brought huge profits, "the blockade has not been violated with impunity. Heavy losses have befallen most of those who have engaged in the illicit trade. Sixty-five steamers, the aggregate value of which, with their cargoes, will scarcely fall short of thirteen millions of dollars, have been captured or destroyed in attempting to enter of escape Wilmington."
More to Come. --Old B-Runner
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Confederate Naval Defenses at Savannah As Sherman Approached
DECEMBER 3, 1864: As Union pressure on Savannah increased, the Savannah Squadron, under Captain W.W. Hunter, CSN, played an increasing role in the defense of the city and the important railroad above it.
This date, Hunter wrote Lt. Joel S. Kennard of the CSS Macon: "The Charleston and Savannah Railway Bridge at the Savannah River is a very important point to defend, and, should it become necessary, endeavor to be in position there to defend it.
"In order to do so, and also to patrol the Savannah River, watch carefully the state of the river, and do not be caught aground or be cut off from the position of the bridge."
--Old B-R'er
This date, Hunter wrote Lt. Joel S. Kennard of the CSS Macon: "The Charleston and Savannah Railway Bridge at the Savannah River is a very important point to defend, and, should it become necessary, endeavor to be in position there to defend it.
"In order to do so, and also to patrol the Savannah River, watch carefully the state of the river, and do not be caught aground or be cut off from the position of the bridge."
--Old B-R'er
Army-Navy Expedition Up Chowan River, N.C.
DECEMBER 2-6TH, 1864: Joint Army-Navy expedition, including sailors from the USS Chicopee, Cmdr. Harrell, captured and burned a large quantity of Confederate supplies and equipment near Pitch Landing on the Chowan River, North Carolina.
In addition, a large quantity of cotton and over $17,000 in Confederate money and bonds were brought off.
And, How Much Was Confederate Money Worth At This Time? --Old B-R'er
In addition, a large quantity of cotton and over $17,000 in Confederate money and bonds were brought off.
And, How Much Was Confederate Money Worth At This Time? --Old B-R'er
Blockade Runners at the Cape Fear River
DECEMBER 1ST, 1864: The USS Rhode Island, Cmdr. Stephen D. Trenchard, captured the blockade-running British steamer Vixen off the Cape Fear, North Carolina, with cargo including arms.
DECEMBER 2-3, 1864: The USS Pequot, Lt.Cmdr. Daniel L. Braine, sighted the blockade running steamer Ella off the coast of South Carolina and pursued her for nearly seven hours before darkness halted the chase.
Early in the morning 3 December, the USS Emma sighted the Ella steering for the Western Bar of the Cape Fear River, and, attempting to intercept her, forced the runner aground near the light at Bald Head Point.Ships of the blockading squadron shelled the grounded Ella for two days before a boarding party burned the ship on 5 December.
--Old B-Runner
DECEMBER 2-3, 1864: The USS Pequot, Lt.Cmdr. Daniel L. Braine, sighted the blockade running steamer Ella off the coast of South Carolina and pursued her for nearly seven hours before darkness halted the chase.
Early in the morning 3 December, the USS Emma sighted the Ella steering for the Western Bar of the Cape Fear River, and, attempting to intercept her, forced the runner aground near the light at Bald Head Point.Ships of the blockading squadron shelled the grounded Ella for two days before a boarding party burned the ship on 5 December.
--Old B-Runner
Confederate Activity Along the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers
DECEMBER 1ST, 1864: In order to cope with powerful rifled batteries erected by Confederates along the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers, Rear Admiral Lee, commanding the Mississippi Squadron, strengthened the forces of Lt.Cmdr. Fitch with the ironclads USS Neosho and USS Carondelet.
Major General Thomas, responsible for halting General Hood's advance on Nashville, wired Major General Halleck this date: "I have two ironclads here, with several gunboats, and Commander Fitch assured me that Hood can neither cross the Cumberland or blockade it. I therefore think it is best to wait here until Wilson can equip all his cavalry."
In the coming, as in the whole Tennessee campaign, the Mississippi Squadron played a key role in covering Union Armies, engaging shore batteries in support of troop movements, and insuring river lines of supply.
--Old B-R'er
Major General Thomas, responsible for halting General Hood's advance on Nashville, wired Major General Halleck this date: "I have two ironclads here, with several gunboats, and Commander Fitch assured me that Hood can neither cross the Cumberland or blockade it. I therefore think it is best to wait here until Wilson can equip all his cavalry."
In the coming, as in the whole Tennessee campaign, the Mississippi Squadron played a key role in covering Union Armies, engaging shore batteries in support of troop movements, and insuring river lines of supply.
--Old B-R'er
Aiding a Prison Escape in South Carolina
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 4TH, 1864: Acting on intelligence that Union prisoners were attempting to reach blockading ships after having escaped from a prisoner train en route to Savannah, five boats and nearly 100 men from the USS Ethan Allen and Dai Ching, scoured the South Altamaha River, South Carolina, without finding any of the reported escapees.
After encountering and engaging a considerable Confederate force, they were compelled to withdraw to their ships.
--Old B-Runner
After encountering and engaging a considerable Confederate force, they were compelled to withdraw to their ships.
--Old B-Runner
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Naval Action Late November '64: Whiskey and Opium
NOVEMBER 29TH, 1864: A ship's boat from the USS Elk captured an unidentified small craft with cargo of whiskey and opium near Mandeville, Louisiana. Can't let THAT get through the blockade, you know.
NOVEMBER 39TH, 1864: Boat expedition from the USS Midnight landed at St. Andrew's Bay, Florida, and destroyed a salt work and took prisoners.
USS Itasca seized British blockade-running schooner Carrie Mair off Pass Cavallo, Texas.
--Old B-R'er
NOVEMBER 39TH, 1864: Boat expedition from the USS Midnight landed at St. Andrew's Bay, Florida, and destroyed a salt work and took prisoners.
USS Itasca seized British blockade-running schooner Carrie Mair off Pass Cavallo, Texas.
--Old B-R'er
Naval Brigade Engages at Honey Hill, S.C.
NOVEMBER 30TH, 1864: Naval Brigade, composed of 350 sailors and 150 Marines from ships of the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron and commanded by Commander George H. Preble joined an Army action at Honey Hill, near Grahamville, South Carolina.
In order to aid General Sherman in his march toward Savannah, Major General Foster had proposed to Admiral Dahlgren a campaign up the Broad River to cut the Charleston-Savannah Railway and establish contact with Sherman.
Preble organized an artillery and two naval infantry battalions to operate with the Army, and they were landed at Boyd's Landing on Broad River on 29 November. Sailors and Marines played a vital role in the ensuing Battle of Honey Hill on 30 November, after which they entrenched on the Grahamville Road.
General Foster then decided with Dahlgren, who accompanied the brigade as far as Boyd's Landing, that the main thrust should come up the Tulifinny River toward Pocotaligo.
--Old B-Runer
In order to aid General Sherman in his march toward Savannah, Major General Foster had proposed to Admiral Dahlgren a campaign up the Broad River to cut the Charleston-Savannah Railway and establish contact with Sherman.
Preble organized an artillery and two naval infantry battalions to operate with the Army, and they were landed at Boyd's Landing on Broad River on 29 November. Sailors and Marines played a vital role in the ensuing Battle of Honey Hill on 30 November, after which they entrenched on the Grahamville Road.
General Foster then decided with Dahlgren, who accompanied the brigade as far as Boyd's Landing, that the main thrust should come up the Tulifinny River toward Pocotaligo.
--Old B-Runer
Monitors Engage Howlett's Battery on the James River
NOVEMBER 29TH, 1864: Double-turret monitor USS Onondaga and single-turret monitor Mahopac engaged Howlett's Battery, on the James River in Virginia in an engagement which lasted for three hours. This was part of continuing action below Richmond.
Major Francis W. Smith, CSA, remarked: "I think the monitors (although they retired under our fire below Dutch Gap) will probably return...."
--Old B-Dutch
Major Francis W. Smith, CSA, remarked: "I think the monitors (although they retired under our fire below Dutch Gap) will probably return...."
--Old B-Dutch
William Turner, USN
In my Saw the Elephant Civil War blog today, I wrote about the auction of "Cotton" Reynolds' huge Civil War collection in August of this year. One of the items was the footlocker of Captain William Turner, USN. which was loaded with items. It went for $4,700.
I have been unable to find any information on the man's service, but it was bought by Mayo Cameron who plans to exhibit it in his museum in North Carolina.
There is a Cameron Art Museum located in Wilmington, so perhaps that is its destination.
--Old B-Runner
I have been unable to find any information on the man's service, but it was bought by Mayo Cameron who plans to exhibit it in his museum in North Carolina.
There is a Cameron Art Museum located in Wilmington, so perhaps that is its destination.
--Old B-Runner
Saturday, November 29, 2014
"The Civil War Adventures of a Blockade Runner"-- Part 2
Topics covered in Chapter 7"
The vessel again repaired
Another detention
A large Federal fleet on the coast
Capture of Captain Downs's vessel and others
The Forts bombarded
The Rob Roy again employed in the Government service
Arrival of a schooner escaped from her captors
Captain McLusky
Account of her capture and escape
--Old B-Runner
The vessel again repaired
Another detention
A large Federal fleet on the coast
Capture of Captain Downs's vessel and others
The Forts bombarded
The Rob Roy again employed in the Government service
Arrival of a schooner escaped from her captors
Captain McLusky
Account of her capture and escape
--Old B-Runner
Thursday, November 27, 2014
"The Civil War Adventures of a Blockade Runner"-- Part 1
By William Watson.
This is one of the two Civil War Navy books I bought at Half Price Books in Columbus, Ohio, last week.
Of course, having cut my Civil War "teeth" on Fort Fisher and its role as protector for blockade-runners and the port of Wilmington, N.C., I am interested in all accounts of blockade-running (hence my sign-off Old B-Runner and Old B-R'er). This one deals with blockade-running in the Gulf of Mexico (though I would have preferred the east coast).
William Watson spent two years evading Union blockaders and dealing with "sharpers."
In the book, he shares his life aboard his ship, the Rob Roy as he made runs from Galveston to Havana, "braving gales and a hurricane, and surviving plots against his ship and his life.
--Old B-Runner
This is one of the two Civil War Navy books I bought at Half Price Books in Columbus, Ohio, last week.
Of course, having cut my Civil War "teeth" on Fort Fisher and its role as protector for blockade-runners and the port of Wilmington, N.C., I am interested in all accounts of blockade-running (hence my sign-off Old B-Runner and Old B-R'er). This one deals with blockade-running in the Gulf of Mexico (though I would have preferred the east coast).
William Watson spent two years evading Union blockaders and dealing with "sharpers."
In the book, he shares his life aboard his ship, the Rob Roy as he made runs from Galveston to Havana, "braving gales and a hurricane, and surviving plots against his ship and his life.
--Old B-Runner
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Buying Those Civil War Navy Books
On November 20th, I was on the outskirts of Columbus, Ohio, on my annual Thanksgiving trip to North Carolina. Driving around the motel, I found one of my favorite stores anywhere, Half Price Books. I love the place even though it always cost me big bucks to go into one of them.
I was beginning to think I might just be in luck and get out without buying anything when I found two Navy books, one by blockade-runner William Watson relating his experiences and the other about the CSS Virginia.
--Old B-Runner
I was beginning to think I might just be in luck and get out without buying anything when I found two Navy books, one by blockade-runner William Watson relating his experiences and the other about the CSS Virginia.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Fort Fisher Replacing Replica Fence
From the November 24, 2014, Wilmington (N.C.) Star-News by Julian March,
The smell of fresh-cut woods once again is among the sand dunes that make up the remnants of the Confederacy's mightiest defensive position, Fort Fisher. This fence runs between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River and was built as a defense against Union land attack.
The fence it is replacing was a replica of the one built in 1864 and installed in the 1960s. The wood in the 1960s fence is in need of replacing which will have a final cost of $140,000.This one is being constructed a whole lot faster than the 1860s one due to modern machinery.
The nine-foot poles of wood are sharpened at the top and have loopholes cut in them for sharpshooters. Every 50 to 100 yards, the fence is angled so Confederates could shoot perpendicularly. Such fences are referred to as palisades in military jargon,
Of course, this is being done in prelude to the big 150th commemoration of the two attacks of Fort Fisher and its eventual capture next month and in January.
A Lot of Wood. --Old B-Runner
The smell of fresh-cut woods once again is among the sand dunes that make up the remnants of the Confederacy's mightiest defensive position, Fort Fisher. This fence runs between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River and was built as a defense against Union land attack.
The fence it is replacing was a replica of the one built in 1864 and installed in the 1960s. The wood in the 1960s fence is in need of replacing which will have a final cost of $140,000.This one is being constructed a whole lot faster than the 1860s one due to modern machinery.
The nine-foot poles of wood are sharpened at the top and have loopholes cut in them for sharpshooters. Every 50 to 100 yards, the fence is angled so Confederates could shoot perpendicularly. Such fences are referred to as palisades in military jargon,
Of course, this is being done in prelude to the big 150th commemoration of the two attacks of Fort Fisher and its eventual capture next month and in January.
A Lot of Wood. --Old B-Runner
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Union Attack On Wilmington Imminent
From the October 28, 2014, Wilmington (N.C.) Star-News "Back Then" by Scott Nunn.
Looking at the October 1864 newspapers there were stories of intelligence being received by military officials regarding an imminent Union attack on the city and its defenses.
General Lee warned the Cape Fear military authorities that if Wilmington fell, he would not be able to maintain his lines at Petersburg, Virginia.
The survival of his Army of Northern Virginia and the Confederacy now depends on Wilmington, North Carolina, "The Lifeline of the Confederacy."
--Old B-Runner
Looking at the October 1864 newspapers there were stories of intelligence being received by military officials regarding an imminent Union attack on the city and its defenses.
General Lee warned the Cape Fear military authorities that if Wilmington fell, he would not be able to maintain his lines at Petersburg, Virginia.
The survival of his Army of Northern Virginia and the Confederacy now depends on Wilmington, North Carolina, "The Lifeline of the Confederacy."
--Old B-Runner
Cushings in the Union Civil War Navy-- Part 2
STEPHEN CUSHING: Acting Assistant Surgeon 11 June 1864. Honorably discharged 10 October 1865.
THOMAS B.: CUSHING: Acting Assistant Paymaster 14 August 1863. Resigned 9 March 1865.
WILLIAM BARKER CUSHING: Acting Midshipman 25 September 1857. Resigned 23 March 1861. Acting Master's Mate 1861. Lieutenant 16 July 1862, Lt. Cmdr. 27 October 1864 (after sinking of the CSS Albemarle), Commander 31 January 1872. Died 17 December 1874.
--Old B-R'er
THOMAS B.: CUSHING: Acting Assistant Paymaster 14 August 1863. Resigned 9 March 1865.
WILLIAM BARKER CUSHING: Acting Midshipman 25 September 1857. Resigned 23 March 1861. Acting Master's Mate 1861. Lieutenant 16 July 1862, Lt. Cmdr. 27 October 1864 (after sinking of the CSS Albemarle), Commander 31 January 1872. Died 17 December 1874.
--Old B-R'er
Cushings in the Union Civil War Navy-- Part 1
From the Officers of the Continental and U.S. Navy and Marines 1775-1900.
I have been writing a lot in the past month on the four Cushings from the same family, three of whom made quite a name for themselves: William, Alonzo and Howard (the last two being in the Army Artillery).
William and Milton Cushing were in the Navy, but upon looking up the name Cushing, I found quite a few others in the Navy during the war.
CHARLES C. CUSHING: Acting Ensign on Admiral Lee's staff November 1864. Honorably discharged 3 October 1865.
EDMUND H. CUSHING: Acting Assistant paymaster, 30 June 1863. Passed Asst. Paymaster 23 July 1866, Paymaster 16 September 1868. Died on USS Tuscarora 11 March 1869.
HENRY CUSHING: Acting Assistant Paymaster 29 July 1862. Discharged 3 October 1865.
MILTON CUSHING: (brother of William) Acting Assistant Paymaster 20 August 1864, Passed Assistant Paymaster 23 July 1866, Paymaster 12 March 1869. Retired List 1 April 1882. Died 1 June 1887.
--Old B-Runner
I have been writing a lot in the past month on the four Cushings from the same family, three of whom made quite a name for themselves: William, Alonzo and Howard (the last two being in the Army Artillery).
William and Milton Cushing were in the Navy, but upon looking up the name Cushing, I found quite a few others in the Navy during the war.
CHARLES C. CUSHING: Acting Ensign on Admiral Lee's staff November 1864. Honorably discharged 3 October 1865.
EDMUND H. CUSHING: Acting Assistant paymaster, 30 June 1863. Passed Asst. Paymaster 23 July 1866, Paymaster 16 September 1868. Died on USS Tuscarora 11 March 1869.
HENRY CUSHING: Acting Assistant Paymaster 29 July 1862. Discharged 3 October 1865.
MILTON CUSHING: (brother of William) Acting Assistant Paymaster 20 August 1864, Passed Assistant Paymaster 23 July 1866, Paymaster 12 March 1869. Retired List 1 April 1882. Died 1 June 1887.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
General Butler's Headquarters Steamer Destroyed, Perhaps By a Coal Torpedo
NOVEMBER 27TH, 1864: An explosion and fire destroyed General Benjamin Butler's headquarters steamer Greyhound, on the James River, Virginia, and narrowly missed killing the general, Major General Schenck and Rear Admiral Porter, on board for a conference on the upcoming Fort Fisher expedition.
Because of the nature of the explosion, it is likely that one of the deadly Confederate coal torpedoes had been planted in the Greyhound's boiler.
Butler recalled: "The furnace door blew open and scattered coals throughout the room."
Coal torpedoes were finely turned pieces of cast iron containing ten pounds of powder and made to resemble closely a lump of coal, and was capable of being used with devastating effect.
Rear Admiral Porter later described the event: "We had left Bermuda Hundred five or six miles behind us when suddenly an explosion forward startled us, and in a moment large volumes of smoke poured out of the engine room."
He continued: "In devices for blowing up vessels the Confederates were far ahead of us, putting Yankee ingenuity to shame."
Coal torpedoes are suspected as being the cause of several unexplained explosions during the war. I know that is one possible reason for the explosion and sinking of the tragic SS Sultana six months later.
Who Knows, Maybe a Left-Over Confederate Coal Torpedo Was Responsible for the Sinking of the USS Maine in 1898? --Old B-R'er
Because of the nature of the explosion, it is likely that one of the deadly Confederate coal torpedoes had been planted in the Greyhound's boiler.
Butler recalled: "The furnace door blew open and scattered coals throughout the room."
Coal torpedoes were finely turned pieces of cast iron containing ten pounds of powder and made to resemble closely a lump of coal, and was capable of being used with devastating effect.
Rear Admiral Porter later described the event: "We had left Bermuda Hundred five or six miles behind us when suddenly an explosion forward startled us, and in a moment large volumes of smoke poured out of the engine room."
He continued: "In devices for blowing up vessels the Confederates were far ahead of us, putting Yankee ingenuity to shame."
Coal torpedoes are suspected as being the cause of several unexplained explosions during the war. I know that is one possible reason for the explosion and sinking of the tragic SS Sultana six months later.
Who Knows, Maybe a Left-Over Confederate Coal Torpedo Was Responsible for the Sinking of the USS Maine in 1898? --Old B-R'er
Attacking the Salt Works in Florida
NOVEMBER 30TH, 1864: A boat expedition from the USS Midnight landed at St. Andrew's Bar, Florida, and destroyed a slat work and took prisoners.
--Old B-R'er
--Old B-R'er
Action in Western Mississippi,Monitors in Action, No Whiskey or Opium for You
NOVEMBER 27TH, 1864: Ram USS Vindicator and USS Prairie Bird transported and covered a successful Union cavalry attack on Confederate communications and transportation in western Mississippi. Thirty miles of track and an important railroad bridge over the Big Black River, east of Vicksburg, were destroyed.
These two ships were in the 6th Division Mississippi Squadron.
Double-turret monitor USS Onondaga and single-turret USS Mahopac engaged Howlett's Battery on the James River, Virginia, for three hours. This was part of ongoing operations below Richmond.
A ship's boat from the USS Elk captured an unidentified small craft with a cargo of whiskey and opium near Mandeville, Louisiana.
--Old B-Runner
These two ships were in the 6th Division Mississippi Squadron.
Double-turret monitor USS Onondaga and single-turret USS Mahopac engaged Howlett's Battery on the James River, Virginia, for three hours. This was part of ongoing operations below Richmond.
A ship's boat from the USS Elk captured an unidentified small craft with a cargo of whiskey and opium near Mandeville, Louisiana.
--Old B-Runner
Harsh Work on the Blockade, Especially on Launch Duty
NOVEMBER 27TH, 1864: Blockade-running British steamer Beatrice was captured by picket boats of the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron off Charleston, S.C.. The prize crew accidentally grounded the Beatrice near Morris Island and she soon was a total wreck.
Rear Admiral Dahlgren noted the ship was captured by small boats and not seagoing vessels, adding: "The duty is severe beyond what is imagined. I the launches the men may be said to live in the boats, and all of them are, in these long nights, exposed to every hardship of sea, wind, and weather; in the stormiest nights they are cruising around close int o the rebel batteries."
The Federal Navy spared no efforts to tighten the blockade now that final victory was coming into sight.
Bad enough to be out on a full-sized ship, but imagine in a little launch.
--Old B-R'er
Rear Admiral Dahlgren noted the ship was captured by small boats and not seagoing vessels, adding: "The duty is severe beyond what is imagined. I the launches the men may be said to live in the boats, and all of them are, in these long nights, exposed to every hardship of sea, wind, and weather; in the stormiest nights they are cruising around close int o the rebel batteries."
The Federal Navy spared no efforts to tighten the blockade now that final victory was coming into sight.
Bad enough to be out on a full-sized ship, but imagine in a little launch.
--Old B-R'er
Capturing Blockade-Runners
NOVEMBER 24TH, 1864: USS Chocura, Lt. Cmdr. Meade, sighted schooner Louisa and chased her ashore on the bar off San Bernard River, Texas. A heavy gale totally destroyed the schooner before it could be boarded.
NOVEMBER 27TH, 1864: USS Princess Royal seized blockade-running British schooner Flash in the Gulf of Mexico off Brazos Santiago with cargo of cotton. Later that day, the Princess Royal also captured blockade-running schooner Neptune.
Lots of prize money for the Princess Royal, but Commander Woolsey reported: "The vessel was empty, having just a cargo of salt, said salt having, according to the master's statement, 'dissolved in her hold'."
The USS Metacomet, Lt.Cmdr. James Jouett, captured blockade-running steamer Susanna in the Gulf of Mexico off Campeche Banks. Half her cargo of cotton was thrown overboard in the chase. Rear Admiral Farragut had regarded the Susanna as "their fastest steamer."
NOVEMBER 30TH, 1864: USS Itasca seized blockade-running British schooner Carrie Mair off Pass Cavallo, Texas.
--Old B-Runner
NOVEMBER 27TH, 1864: USS Princess Royal seized blockade-running British schooner Flash in the Gulf of Mexico off Brazos Santiago with cargo of cotton. Later that day, the Princess Royal also captured blockade-running schooner Neptune.
Lots of prize money for the Princess Royal, but Commander Woolsey reported: "The vessel was empty, having just a cargo of salt, said salt having, according to the master's statement, 'dissolved in her hold'."
The USS Metacomet, Lt.Cmdr. James Jouett, captured blockade-running steamer Susanna in the Gulf of Mexico off Campeche Banks. Half her cargo of cotton was thrown overboard in the chase. Rear Admiral Farragut had regarded the Susanna as "their fastest steamer."
NOVEMBER 30TH, 1864: USS Itasca seized blockade-running British schooner Carrie Mair off Pass Cavallo, Texas.
--Old B-Runner
Monday, November 17, 2014
Milton B. Cushing, USN
I have been writing about the four Cushing brothers who served in the U.S. military during the Civil War. Milton and William were in the Navy and Alonzo, who just received the Congressional Medal of Honor, and Howard were in the Army.
I have just made an entry on Milton Cushing in my Saw the Elephant Civil War blog. He was an Assistant Paymaster on the USS Seneca during the war. This ship was one of the 90-Day Gunboats and took part in the attacks on Fort Fisher.
--Old B-Runner
I have just made an entry on Milton Cushing in my Saw the Elephant Civil War blog. He was an Assistant Paymaster on the USS Seneca during the war. This ship was one of the 90-Day Gunboats and took part in the attacks on Fort Fisher.
--Old B-Runner
Baker's Plan to Capture Fort Pickens-- Part 2
A month later, after having conferred with President Davis and General Braxton Bragg, Mallory ordered Baker to proceed with his plan.
On 25 October James McC Baker departed Mobile with a number of sailors on the steamer Dick Keys and rendezvoused with 100 soldiers from general Dabney Maury's command that night in Blakely, Alabama.
As they were preparing to get underway, Maury ordered a temporary delay because of information received which reported that Union forces had landed at Pensacola Navy Yard near Fort Pickens. By the 30th this intelligence was demonstrated to be inaccurate, but Maury still was reluctant to go ahead.
Concerned that the Northerners now had knowledge of the attempt, he suggested the soldiers return to their units Maury intimated that the expedition might proceed in the future "with more secrecy and certainty of success."
On the 24th of November, Maury called it all off: "I regret that circumstances beyond the control of the department or yourself should have thus terminated an enterprise which seemed to promise good results."
If the expedition had gone undetected and if there were just two soldiers posted at Fort Pickens, I'm sure it would have been a success, but I'm sure the Confederates would have quickly been cut off by Union ships and soldiers on the peninsula of land and eventually forced to surrender.
But, it Would Have Made Up a Little for Cushing's Success Against the CSS Albemarle. --Old B-R'er
On 25 October James McC Baker departed Mobile with a number of sailors on the steamer Dick Keys and rendezvoused with 100 soldiers from general Dabney Maury's command that night in Blakely, Alabama.
As they were preparing to get underway, Maury ordered a temporary delay because of information received which reported that Union forces had landed at Pensacola Navy Yard near Fort Pickens. By the 30th this intelligence was demonstrated to be inaccurate, but Maury still was reluctant to go ahead.
Concerned that the Northerners now had knowledge of the attempt, he suggested the soldiers return to their units Maury intimated that the expedition might proceed in the future "with more secrecy and certainty of success."
On the 24th of November, Maury called it all off: "I regret that circumstances beyond the control of the department or yourself should have thus terminated an enterprise which seemed to promise good results."
If the expedition had gone undetected and if there were just two soldiers posted at Fort Pickens, I'm sure it would have been a success, but I'm sure the Confederates would have quickly been cut off by Union ships and soldiers on the peninsula of land and eventually forced to surrender.
But, it Would Have Made Up a Little for Cushing's Success Against the CSS Albemarle. --Old B-R'er
Lt. James McC Baker, CSN, Wants to Take Fort Pickens-- Part 1
NOVEMBER 24TH, 1864: Lt. James McC Baker's preparations for the capture of Union-held Fort Pickens at Pensacola, Florida, were terminated by Secretary Mallory: "Major-General Maury having withdrawn his men from the enterprise to the command of which you were assigned, its prosecution becomes impracticable."
It was a bitter blow to the daring young Confederate naval officer who had first undertaken the scheme in April and had fought persuasively for months to bring it off. By mid-August, still unable to obtain authorization from the local command to proceed with the plan, the bold lieutenant had written Mallory outlining his scheme to seize Fort Pickens.
"Not dreaming that we have any designs upon it, and deluding themselves with the idea that its isolated position renders it safe from attack, they have been exceedingly careless, having only two sentinels on duty...."
Baker proposed to take a landing force of sailors and soldiers in small boats and, "...pulling down the eastern shore of the bay (evidently Mobile Bay) into Bon Secours, and, hauling the boats across qa narrow strip of land into Little Lagoon, I would enter the Gulf at a point 20 miles east of Fort Morgan and be within a seven hours' pull of Fort Pickens, with nothing to interrupt our progress.
A Daring Move. --Old B-Runner
It was a bitter blow to the daring young Confederate naval officer who had first undertaken the scheme in April and had fought persuasively for months to bring it off. By mid-August, still unable to obtain authorization from the local command to proceed with the plan, the bold lieutenant had written Mallory outlining his scheme to seize Fort Pickens.
"Not dreaming that we have any designs upon it, and deluding themselves with the idea that its isolated position renders it safe from attack, they have been exceedingly careless, having only two sentinels on duty...."
Baker proposed to take a landing force of sailors and soldiers in small boats and, "...pulling down the eastern shore of the bay (evidently Mobile Bay) into Bon Secours, and, hauling the boats across qa narrow strip of land into Little Lagoon, I would enter the Gulf at a point 20 miles east of Fort Morgan and be within a seven hours' pull of Fort Pickens, with nothing to interrupt our progress.
A Daring Move. --Old B-Runner
Admiral Lee Looking for More Ships in Western Waters
NOVEMBER 23RD, 1864: Constantly alert to the need to strengthen his squadron for the difficult work of convoying and patrolling the Western Rivers, Rear Admiral Lee on this date dispatched a group of officers on a confidential mission to Cincinnati, Pittsburgh "and other places if necessary, for the purpose of purchasing ten sound, strong, and swift light draft steamers to be converted into gunboats."
Ten were eventually bought, converted and added to the Mississippi Squadron in early 1865.
--Old B-R'er
Ten were eventually bought, converted and added to the Mississippi Squadron in early 1865.
--Old B-R'er
Engagement on the Mississippi River and Capture of Blockade-Runner
NOVEMBER 21ST, 1864: Boats from the USS Avenger capture a large quantity opf supplies on the Mississippi River near Bruinsburg, Mississippi after a brief engagement. Union gunboats maintained a vigilant patrol to prevent Confederate supplies from crossing the Mississippi River for the armies in Tennessee and Alabama.
Also, the USS Iosco captured blockade-running schooner Sybil with a cargo of cotton off the North carolina coast.
--Old B-Runner
Also, the USS Iosco captured blockade-running schooner Sybil with a cargo of cotton off the North carolina coast.
--Old B-Runner
USS Louisiana to Become Powder Boat Experiment at Fort Fisher
NOVEMBER 20TH, 1864: Rear Admiral Porter directed Commander Macomb to send the USS Louisiana to Beaufort, N.C.. The Louisiana was to become the powder ship which Porter and General Butler hoped to use to level Fort Fisher and obviate the need for a direct attack on the big sand fort.
The hope was that the concussion from a huge explosion might knock down the ramparts of the fort.
Early in December, she was taken to Hampton Roads, where she was partially stripped and loaded with explosives.
--Old B-R'er
The hope was that the concussion from a huge explosion might knock down the ramparts of the fort.
Early in December, she was taken to Hampton Roads, where she was partially stripped and loaded with explosives.
--Old B-R'er
Confederate Submersible Torpedo Boat Saint Patrick
NOVEMBER 20TH, 1864: Edward La Croix of Selma, Alabama, writing Secretary Welles from Detroit (spy?), reported that a torpedo boat had been constructed at Selma for use against Union forces at Mobile Bay.
he described her: "Length, about 30 feet; has watertight compartments; can be sunk or raised as desired; is propelled by a very small engine, and will stow five men. It has some arrangement of machinery that times the explosions of the torpedoes, to enable the operators to retire to a safe distance.
"the boat proves to be a good sailer on the river and has gone to Mobile to make last preparations for trying its efficacy on the Federal vessels."
La Croix was referring to the submersible torpedo boat Saint Patrick built by John P. Halligan who was also her first commander. It was a source of concern for Federals in Mobile Bay and in 1865, did attempt to sink a blockader.
--Old B-Runner
he described her: "Length, about 30 feet; has watertight compartments; can be sunk or raised as desired; is propelled by a very small engine, and will stow five men. It has some arrangement of machinery that times the explosions of the torpedoes, to enable the operators to retire to a safe distance.
"the boat proves to be a good sailer on the river and has gone to Mobile to make last preparations for trying its efficacy on the Federal vessels."
La Croix was referring to the submersible torpedo boat Saint Patrick built by John P. Halligan who was also her first commander. It was a source of concern for Federals in Mobile Bay and in 1865, did attempt to sink a blockader.
--Old B-Runner
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Not a Blockade-Runner, Per Se: The CSS Chickamauga Returns to Wilmington
NOVEMBER 19TH, 1864: The CSS Chickamauga, Lt. Wilkinson, ran the blockade into Wilmington under cover of a heavy fog. He had miscalculated his position the day before and successfully run through the blockade to Masonboro Inlet instead of New Inlet.
Wilkinson dropped down the coast and early in the morning of the 19th anchored under the guns of Fort Fisher to await high tide when the Chickamauga could cross the bar and stand up the Cape Fear River to Wilmington.
As the fog lifted blockaders USS Kansas, Wilderness, Cherokee and Clematis opened on what they thought at first was a grounded blockade runner. The Chickamauga broke out its Confederate flag and returned the fire, joined by the heavy guns of Fort Fisher.
Fog and the range of the fort's guns thwarted efforts to destroy the cruiser and by mid-morning, the Chickamauga was safely up the river and nearing Wilmington.
Nearly an Oops. --Old B-R'er
Wilkinson dropped down the coast and early in the morning of the 19th anchored under the guns of Fort Fisher to await high tide when the Chickamauga could cross the bar and stand up the Cape Fear River to Wilmington.
As the fog lifted blockaders USS Kansas, Wilderness, Cherokee and Clematis opened on what they thought at first was a grounded blockade runner. The Chickamauga broke out its Confederate flag and returned the fire, joined by the heavy guns of Fort Fisher.
Fog and the range of the fort's guns thwarted efforts to destroy the cruiser and by mid-morning, the Chickamauga was safely up the river and nearing Wilmington.
Nearly an Oops. --Old B-R'er
Reconnaissance Up the Roanoke River in N.C
NOVEMBER 17TH, 1864: Now that the CSS Albemarle was no longer a threat and Plymouth under Union control, upper Roanoke River became a Union consideration. On this date the USS Ostego and Ceres ascended the river to Jamesville, N.C. on a reconnaissance.
The smaller Ceres continued upriver to Williamston. Although Confederates had been reported to be in the area, no batteries or troops were encountered.
--Old B-R'er
--
The smaller Ceres continued upriver to Williamston. Although Confederates had been reported to be in the area, no batteries or troops were encountered.
--Old B-R'er
--
Fear of the CSS Tallahassee Strikes Conncticut
Governor William A. Buckingham of Connecticut wrote secretary Welles of the "defenselessness of Stonington." The citizens of that city, he reported, "feel that the Tallahassee having been near them, that or some other vessel may make them a piratical visit at any hour, and urge that an ironclad be stationed in their harbor not only for their protection, but for the protection of other towns on the sound and sound steamers."
The governor's letter typified the grave concern caused by the infrequent but devastating Confederate raids along the Northern coast.
Imagine how they would have felt if they were Southerners along the coast living in constant threat of visit by Northern ships.
--Old B-Runner
The governor's letter typified the grave concern caused by the infrequent but devastating Confederate raids along the Northern coast.
Imagine how they would have felt if they were Southerners along the coast living in constant threat of visit by Northern ships.
--Old B-Runner
Work on Dutch Gap Canal Progressing
A Union expedition reconnoitered Confederate naval forces above Dutch Gap on the James River in Virginia. Work was progressing ahead quickly on the Dutch Gap Canal, which would allow Union gunboats to bypass obstructions and defenses at Trent's Reach.
This expedition provided valuable information regarding the positions of enemy ships and fortifications.
--Old B-Runner
This expedition provided valuable information regarding the positions of enemy ships and fortifications.
--Old B-Runner
Salt Works in Florida
NOVEMBER 9TH, 1864: The USS Stepping Stones captured blockade running sloops Reliance and Little Elmer in Mobjack Bay, Virginia.
NOVEMBER 12TH, 1864: A boat expedition from the USS Hendrick Hudson and USS Nita attempted to destroy Confederate salt works on a reconnaissance near Tampa Bay, Florida, but the sailors were driven back to their boats by Confederate cavalry.
--Old B-R'er
NOVEMBER 12TH, 1864: A boat expedition from the USS Hendrick Hudson and USS Nita attempted to destroy Confederate salt works on a reconnaissance near Tampa Bay, Florida, but the sailors were driven back to their boats by Confederate cavalry.
--Old B-R'er
Confederate Attempt to Seize the SS Salvador Thwarted
NOVEMBER 11TH, 1864: Commander Henry K. Davenport, USS Lancaster, captured Confederates on board steamer Salvador, bound from Panama to California, after learning that they planned to seize the ship and turn her into a commerce raider. The Salvador's captain had warned naval authorities at Panama Bay that the attempt was to be made, and Davenport and his men arranged to search the baggage of the passengers after the vessel passed the territorial limits of Panama (actually a part of Colombia at the time). This was done to avoid international law problems.
The search revealed guns and ammunition, along with a commission from Confederate Secretary Mallory for the capture; the Confederates were promptly taken into custody.
This daring party, led by Acting master Thomas E. Hogg, CSN, was one of many attempting to seize Union steamers and convert them into commerce raiders, especially with the view toward capturing the gold shipments from California. Union ships usually convoyed the California ships to avoid capture.
It Costs Money to Fight a War. --Old B-Runner
The search revealed guns and ammunition, along with a commission from Confederate Secretary Mallory for the capture; the Confederates were promptly taken into custody.
This daring party, led by Acting master Thomas E. Hogg, CSN, was one of many attempting to seize Union steamers and convert them into commerce raiders, especially with the view toward capturing the gold shipments from California. Union ships usually convoyed the California ships to avoid capture.
It Costs Money to Fight a War. --Old B-Runner
Friday, November 14, 2014
Dahlgren Planning Another Joint Attack on Charleston, S.C.
NOVEMBER 10, 1864: Rear Admiral Dahlgren wrote to Secretary Welles regarding plans for another joint attack on Charleston. Dahlgren well understood the great advantage of mobility and supply enjoyed by the Union through its control of the sea.
He wrote: "Part of the troops could be landed at Bull's Bay, whence there is a good road for some 15 miles; part would enter the inlet seaward of Sullivan's Island, seize Long Island, and with the aid of the Navy, land in the rear of Sullivan's Island, join the force coming from Bull's Bay, and occupy Mount Pleasant... .
"This operation would requite 30,000 to 50,000 good men because it is reasonable to admit that the present small force of rebels would receive large additions. Still, we have the unquestioned advantage of being able to bring here additional forces more promptly in the present position of the main armies.
"Hood must pass around Sherman to give any aid, and general Grant equally obstructs the road from Richmond."
--Old B-Runner
He wrote: "Part of the troops could be landed at Bull's Bay, whence there is a good road for some 15 miles; part would enter the inlet seaward of Sullivan's Island, seize Long Island, and with the aid of the Navy, land in the rear of Sullivan's Island, join the force coming from Bull's Bay, and occupy Mount Pleasant... .
"This operation would requite 30,000 to 50,000 good men because it is reasonable to admit that the present small force of rebels would receive large additions. Still, we have the unquestioned advantage of being able to bring here additional forces more promptly in the present position of the main armies.
"Hood must pass around Sherman to give any aid, and general Grant equally obstructs the road from Richmond."
--Old B-Runner
Thursday, November 13, 2014
CSS Shenandoah's Busy Cruise
NOVEMBER 8TH, 1864: Captured and burned bark D. Godfrey southwest of the Cape Verde Islands with cargo of beef and pork.
NOVEMBER 10TH, 1864: Captured and scuttled brig Susan at sea southwest of the Cape Verde Islands with cargo of coal. Waddell described her as in bad shape and moved very slowly.
NOVEMBER 12TH, 1864: Seized and bonded clipper ship Kate Prince and brig Adelaide in the mid-Atlantic near the equator.
NOVEMBER 13TH, 1864: Captured and burned schooner Lizzie M. Stacey in the mid-Atlantic near the equator with cargo of pinesalt and iron. Two of its crew joined the Shenandoah. It was the last prize the Shenandoah would take for some three weeks.
--Old B-Runner
NOVEMBER 10TH, 1864: Captured and scuttled brig Susan at sea southwest of the Cape Verde Islands with cargo of coal. Waddell described her as in bad shape and moved very slowly.
NOVEMBER 12TH, 1864: Seized and bonded clipper ship Kate Prince and brig Adelaide in the mid-Atlantic near the equator.
NOVEMBER 13TH, 1864: Captured and burned schooner Lizzie M. Stacey in the mid-Atlantic near the equator with cargo of pinesalt and iron. Two of its crew joined the Shenandoah. It was the last prize the Shenandoah would take for some three weeks.
--Old B-Runner
Breaking Up Court in Edenton, N.C.
NOVEMBER 8TH, 1864: Acting Master Francis Josselyn, USS Commodore Hull, landed a party of sailors at Edenton, North Carolina, under orders from Commander Macomb to break up a court session being held there.
Josselyn described the unique expedition: "I landed with a detachment of men this afternoon at Edenton and adjourned sine die a county court which was in session in the court house at that place under so-called Confederate authority. This court, the first that had been held at Edenton since the breaking out of the war, the authorities had the impertinence to hold under my very guns."
No Justice Today. --Old B-R'er
Josselyn described the unique expedition: "I landed with a detachment of men this afternoon at Edenton and adjourned sine die a county court which was in session in the court house at that place under so-called Confederate authority. This court, the first that had been held at Edenton since the breaking out of the war, the authorities had the impertinence to hold under my very guns."
No Justice Today. --Old B-R'er
John C. Tennett, CSN-- Part 2
I was able to find him listed as being an officer on the CSS Fredericksburg May 31, 1864, as First Assistant Engineer. He is listed in the Portal to Texas History, Register of Officers CSN, 1861-1865, but they gave only the information from the Arlington National Cemetery site.
As far as his being a chaplain as mentioned in the previous post, there is no mention of him, but there is a John C. Tennent listed in one source as being from North Carolina and serving as Chaplain F&S in the 32nd N.C. Infantry Regiment (Lenoir Braves). Another source lists John C. Tennent as being chaplain of the 2nd Battalion Gyrmes Brigade (probably Grimes).
As far as his being a chaplain as mentioned in the previous post, there is no mention of him, but there is a John C. Tennent listed in one source as being from North Carolina and serving as Chaplain F&S in the 32nd N.C. Infantry Regiment (Lenoir Braves). Another source lists John C. Tennent as being chaplain of the 2nd Battalion Gyrmes Brigade (probably Grimes).
John C. Tennett, CSN
From the Arlington National Cemetery site, Confederate Burials.
John C. Tennett, First Assistant Engineer, CSN.
Appointed from North Carolina. Served aboard the CSS Fredericksburg in 1864. Resigned in late 1864 and joined the Confederate Army as a chaplain.
Died July 11, 1913.
--Old B-Runner
John C. Tennett, First Assistant Engineer, CSN.
Appointed from North Carolina. Served aboard the CSS Fredericksburg in 1864. Resigned in late 1864 and joined the Confederate Army as a chaplain.
Died July 11, 1913.
--Old B-Runner
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Farragut on Sea Power
NOVEMBER 8TH, 1964: Rear Admiral Farragut, writing Secretary Welles, expressed his deeply held conviction that effective sea power was not dependent so much on a particular kind of ship or a specific gun but rather on the officers and men who manned them: ...I think the world is sadly mistaken when it supposes that battles are won by this or that kind of gun or vessel.
"In my humble opinion the Kearsarge would have captured or sunk the Alabama as often as they might have met under the same organization and officers. The best gun and the best vessel should certainly be chosen, but the victory three times out of four depends upon those who fight them.
"I do not believe that the result would have been different if the Kearsarge had nothing but a battery of 8-inch guns and 100-pound chase rifle. What signifies the size and caliber of the gun if you do not hit the adversary?"
--Old B-R'er
"In my humble opinion the Kearsarge would have captured or sunk the Alabama as often as they might have met under the same organization and officers. The best gun and the best vessel should certainly be chosen, but the victory three times out of four depends upon those who fight them.
"I do not believe that the result would have been different if the Kearsarge had nothing but a battery of 8-inch guns and 100-pound chase rifle. What signifies the size and caliber of the gun if you do not hit the adversary?"
--Old B-R'er
Black Market Cotton?
NOVEMBER 7, 1864: Upon learning that Confederate officers were quartered in a house on the Arkansas side of the Mississippi River near Island 69, Acting Lt. Frederic S. Hill led an expedition from the USS Tyler to capture them. However, they had departed.
The mother of one of them boldly showed Hill her permit to transport cotton up the Mississippi and a request, officially endorsed by Major General Cadwallader C. Washburn, USA, for gunboat protection.
Hill reluctantly complied with the request, remarking to Rear Admiral Lee: "...in the face of all these documents, as I was upon the spot and a steamer then at hand ready to take the cotton, I considered it proper to give her the required protection, although with a very bad grace.
"Permit me, admiral, respectfully to call your attention to the anomaly of using every exertion to capture rebel officers at 2 a,m,, whose cotton I am called upon to protect in its shipment to a market at 10 a.m. of the same day, this affording themselves with every comfort money can procure ere they return to their brother rebels in arms with Hood."
Wondering What Washburn's Cut Was? --Old B-Runner
The mother of one of them boldly showed Hill her permit to transport cotton up the Mississippi and a request, officially endorsed by Major General Cadwallader C. Washburn, USA, for gunboat protection.
Hill reluctantly complied with the request, remarking to Rear Admiral Lee: "...in the face of all these documents, as I was upon the spot and a steamer then at hand ready to take the cotton, I considered it proper to give her the required protection, although with a very bad grace.
"Permit me, admiral, respectfully to call your attention to the anomaly of using every exertion to capture rebel officers at 2 a,m,, whose cotton I am called upon to protect in its shipment to a market at 10 a.m. of the same day, this affording themselves with every comfort money can procure ere they return to their brother rebels in arms with Hood."
Wondering What Washburn's Cut Was? --Old B-Runner
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
A Day to Honor All Veterans
Memorial Day is the commemoration of military service that grew out of the Civil War. Today is the one that grew out of the end of World War I, or First World War as the British refer to it.
Nonetheless, both commemorate the service of all veterans and that includes the Civil War veterans. And, even though some people hate this idea, those who served the Confederacy are also included as our nation's veterans.
So, To All Veterans, a Very Big Thank You
Nonetheless, both commemorate the service of all veterans and that includes the Civil War veterans. And, even though some people hate this idea, those who served the Confederacy are also included as our nation's veterans.
So, To All Veterans, a Very Big Thank You
Monday, November 10, 2014
Action at Charleston, High Seas, Texas and Florida
NOVEMBER 5TH, 1864: The monitor USS Patapsco bombarded and set afire an unidentified sloop aground off Fort Moultrie, Charleston with cargo of cotton and turpentine judging by the resulting fire.
CSS Shenandoah captured and burned the schooner Charter Oak off the Cape Verde Islands.
USS Fort Morgan captured blockade runner John A. Hazard off the Texas coast with cargo of coffee, rice, oil, dry goods and medicine.
NOVEMBER 6TH, 1864: USS Fort Morgan captured blockade running schooner Lone off Brazos Pass, Texas.
Boats from the USS Adela captured blockade running schooner Badger attempting to run the blockade out of St. George's Sound, Florida, with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-R'er
CSS Shenandoah captured and burned the schooner Charter Oak off the Cape Verde Islands.
USS Fort Morgan captured blockade runner John A. Hazard off the Texas coast with cargo of coffee, rice, oil, dry goods and medicine.
NOVEMBER 6TH, 1864: USS Fort Morgan captured blockade running schooner Lone off Brazos Pass, Texas.
Boats from the USS Adela captured blockade running schooner Badger attempting to run the blockade out of St. George's Sound, Florida, with cargo of cotton.
--Old B-R'er
Confederate Plans to Attack the USS Michigan and the Great Lakes
NOVEMBER 5TH, 1864: W.G. Fargo, Mayor of Buffalo, New York, telegraphed Secretary Welles that the ship Georgian had been purchased in Toronto by Southern sympathizer Dr. James Bates: "My information is that she will be armed on the Canada shore for the purpose of encountering the USS Michigan and for piratical and predatory purposes on the Lakes..."
Though Commander Carter of the USS Michigan discounted these rumors, the Georgian continued to rouse grave concern in the Great Lakes area.
To be commanded by Master John Y. Beall, CSN, she was in fact to be a part of the new plot on the part of Confederate agent Jacob Thompson to capture the Michigan and attack the cities on Lake Erie, but the suspicions of Union authorities and the strict surveillance under which the ship was placed by Union agents prevented the plot from being carried out.
Welles ordered the Carter to seize the Georgian if she ventured into American waters, but she was searched twice by Canadian and American authorities without any hint of her true character being detected. The Georgian was eventually laid up at Collingwood, on the Canadian side, and later sold to private interests.
--Old B-Runner
Though Commander Carter of the USS Michigan discounted these rumors, the Georgian continued to rouse grave concern in the Great Lakes area.
To be commanded by Master John Y. Beall, CSN, she was in fact to be a part of the new plot on the part of Confederate agent Jacob Thompson to capture the Michigan and attack the cities on Lake Erie, but the suspicions of Union authorities and the strict surveillance under which the ship was placed by Union agents prevented the plot from being carried out.
Welles ordered the Carter to seize the Georgian if she ventured into American waters, but she was searched twice by Canadian and American authorities without any hint of her true character being detected. The Georgian was eventually laid up at Collingwood, on the Canadian side, and later sold to private interests.
--Old B-Runner
Saturday, November 8, 2014
More on the Confederate Naval Academy
NOVEMBER 5TH, 1864: Secretary Mallory reported to President Davis on the continuing contributions of the Confederate Naval Academy which was training young midshipmen not only in the classroom but under fire: "In my last report I brought to your notice that the steamship Patrick Henry had been organized as a school and practice ship for the education of midshipmen in the several essential branches of their profession.
"The system of instruction conforms, as nearly as practical, to that of the most approved naval schools, and this institution will serve as a nucleus for an establishment which the necessities of naval service and the interests of the country will at an early day render necessary.
"Under the efficient command of Lieutenant Commander Parker, aided by zealous and competent officers, the beneficial of the school are already visible in the progress, tone, and bearing of our midshipmen.
""Though but from 14 to 18 years of age, they eagerly seek every opportunity presented for engaging in hazardous enterprises who are sent upon them uniformly exhibit good discipline, conduct, and courage."
Cadet classroom ordnance theory classes were often interrupted by very real ordnance "drills" of helping to man ship and shore batteries to repel Union attack.
--Old B-R'er
"The system of instruction conforms, as nearly as practical, to that of the most approved naval schools, and this institution will serve as a nucleus for an establishment which the necessities of naval service and the interests of the country will at an early day render necessary.
"Under the efficient command of Lieutenant Commander Parker, aided by zealous and competent officers, the beneficial of the school are already visible in the progress, tone, and bearing of our midshipmen.
""Though but from 14 to 18 years of age, they eagerly seek every opportunity presented for engaging in hazardous enterprises who are sent upon them uniformly exhibit good discipline, conduct, and courage."
Cadet classroom ordnance theory classes were often interrupted by very real ordnance "drills" of helping to man ship and shore batteries to repel Union attack.
--Old B-R'er
More Honors for Cushing
NOVEMBER 5, 1864: In General order No. 34 to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Rear Admiral Porter wrote: "The gallant exploits of Lieutenant Cushing previous to this affair will form a bright page in the history of the war, but they have all been eclipsed by the destruction of the Albemarle.
"The spirit evinced by this officer in what I wish to see pervading this squadron.... Opportunity will be offered to all those who have the energy and skill to undertake like enterprises."
What You Gonna Do With Cushing? --Old B-Runner
"The spirit evinced by this officer in what I wish to see pervading this squadron.... Opportunity will be offered to all those who have the energy and skill to undertake like enterprises."
What You Gonna Do With Cushing? --Old B-Runner
Friday, November 7, 2014
More Action on the Tennessee River
NOVEMBER 4TH, 1864: Paddle-wheelers USS Key West, USS Towah and small steamer USS Elfin were destroyed after an engagement with Confederate batteries at Johnsonville, Tennessee, along with several transport steamers and a large quantity of supplies.
Acting Lt. King, in command of the naval group, was patrolling the river and protecting the Union depot and headquarters at Johnsonville as the forces of General Forrest suddenly struck the city.
--Old B-Runer
Acting Lt. King, in command of the naval group, was patrolling the river and protecting the Union depot and headquarters at Johnsonville as the forces of General Forrest suddenly struck the city.
--Old B-Runer
Action Heating Up on the Tennessee River
NOVEMBER 2ND, 1864: Paddle-wheelers USS Key West and USS Towah, patrolling the Tennessee River, encountered the Undine and Venus, which the Confederates had captured three days earlier.
After a heated running engagement, the Venus was retaken, but Undine, though badly damaged, escaped. Carrying Confederate troops, the Undine outran her pursuers and gained the protection of Confederate batteries at Reynoldsburg Island, near Johnsonville, Tennessee.
--Old B-R'er
After a heated running engagement, the Venus was retaken, but Undine, though badly damaged, escaped. Carrying Confederate troops, the Undine outran her pursuers and gained the protection of Confederate batteries at Reynoldsburg Island, near Johnsonville, Tennessee.
--Old B-R'er
Blockade's Impact on Confederate Medicines
NOVEMBER 1, 1864: Dr. W.A.W. Spotswood, Surgeon in Charge, Office of medicine and Surgery, CSN, reported the effect of the continuing blockade: "It affords me much satisfaction to report that, by the operations of the purveyor's department, an ample supply of medicines, instruments, and everything to meet the wants of the sick has been furnished up to the present time, but owing to the strict blockade of the seacoast and harbors of the Confederacy, rendering it impossible to procure medical supplies from abroad, I feel that there will necessarily be much difficulty in procuring many valuable articles soon required for the sick.
"Every effort has been made to procure a large supply, but in vain, and it is to be regretted that the
supplu of cotton placed in the hands of the Navy agent at the port of Wilmington can not be sent to Bermuda to purchase more or to pay for the medicines that have been received."
Things Are Going to Get Even Worse and Soon. --Old B-Runner
"Every effort has been made to procure a large supply, but in vain, and it is to be regretted that the
supplu of cotton placed in the hands of the Navy agent at the port of Wilmington can not be sent to Bermuda to purchase more or to pay for the medicines that have been received."
Things Are Going to Get Even Worse and Soon. --Old B-Runner
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Navy News 150 Years Ago
OCTOBER 31ST, 1864:The USS Katahdin captured British blockade-runner off Galveston with cargo of cotton.
NOVEMBER 1ST, 1864: Rear Admiral Lee assumed command of the Mississippi Squadron at Mound City, Illinois.
NOVEMBER 2ND, 1864: USS Santiago de Cuba, Captain Glisson, captured blockade-running steamer Lucy at sea east of Charleston with cargo of cotton and tobacco.
NOVEMBER 5TH, 1864: The monitor USS Patapsco bombarded and set afire an unidentified sloop aground off Fort Moultrie, Charleston, S.C..
CSS Shenandoah captured and burned the schooner Charter Oak off the Cape Verde Islands after removing her passengers and a quantity of fruit, vegetables and other provisions.
USS Fort Morgan captured blockade-runner John A. Hazard off Texas coast with cargo of coffee, rice, oil, dry goods and medicines.
--Old B-R'er
NOVEMBER 1ST, 1864: Rear Admiral Lee assumed command of the Mississippi Squadron at Mound City, Illinois.
NOVEMBER 2ND, 1864: USS Santiago de Cuba, Captain Glisson, captured blockade-running steamer Lucy at sea east of Charleston with cargo of cotton and tobacco.
NOVEMBER 5TH, 1864: The monitor USS Patapsco bombarded and set afire an unidentified sloop aground off Fort Moultrie, Charleston, S.C..
CSS Shenandoah captured and burned the schooner Charter Oak off the Cape Verde Islands after removing her passengers and a quantity of fruit, vegetables and other provisions.
USS Fort Morgan captured blockade-runner John A. Hazard off Texas coast with cargo of coffee, rice, oil, dry goods and medicines.
--Old B-R'er
CSS Chickamauga Still At It
NOVEMBER 1ST, 1864:The Chickamauga, now rid of Mrs. Drinkwater, captured and scuttled the schooners Godspeed, in ballast, and Otter Rock, cargo of potatoes, off the northeast coast of the United States.
NOVEMBER 2ND, 1864: The CSS Chickamauga captured bark Speedwell off the New Jersey coast and bonded her for $18,000.
--Old B-Runner
NOVEMBER 2ND, 1864: The CSS Chickamauga captured bark Speedwell off the New Jersey coast and bonded her for $18,000.
--Old B-Runner
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Blockade-Runner Annie Seized Off New Inlet, N.C.: Some Question About Procedure
OCTOBER 31ST, 1864: The USS Wilderness and USS Niphon seized British blockade-runner steamer Annie off New Inlet, N.C.. New Inlet was one of the two entrances to the Cape Fear River and Wilmington. The Annie was outward bound with a cargo of tobacco, cotton and turpentine
Concerned by reports that the officers of the two ships had not properly signaled other Union blockaders during the chase in order to obtain a larger share of the prize money, Rear Admiral Porter wrote: "This war is not being conducted for the benefit of officers to enrich them by the capture of prizes, and every commander is deficient in the high moral character which has always been inherent in the Navy who for a moment consults his private interests in preference to the public good, hesitates to destroy what is the property of the enemy, or attempts to benefit himself at the expense of others... Honor and glory should be the watchword of the Navy, and not for profit."
A steamer such as the Annie brought in large prize money from all ships within sight of its capture. The fewer the ships, the more the shares of money for its captors. I have to wonder how many blockade-runners avoided capture when a blockader "neglected" to alert others about its presence?
--Yea, Right! --Old B-R'er
Concerned by reports that the officers of the two ships had not properly signaled other Union blockaders during the chase in order to obtain a larger share of the prize money, Rear Admiral Porter wrote: "This war is not being conducted for the benefit of officers to enrich them by the capture of prizes, and every commander is deficient in the high moral character which has always been inherent in the Navy who for a moment consults his private interests in preference to the public good, hesitates to destroy what is the property of the enemy, or attempts to benefit himself at the expense of others... Honor and glory should be the watchword of the Navy, and not for profit."
A steamer such as the Annie brought in large prize money from all ships within sight of its capture. The fewer the ships, the more the shares of money for its captors. I have to wonder how many blockade-runners avoided capture when a blockader "neglected" to alert others about its presence?
--Yea, Right! --Old B-R'er
CSS Chickamauga Captures Two Union Ships and Has to Deal With Mrs. Drinkwater
OCTOBER 31ST, 1864: The CSS Chickamauga, Lt. Wilkinson, captured and burned the ship Emma L. Hall, with cargo of molasses and sugar, and the ship Shooting Star, with cargo of coal, off the northeast coast of the United States. The Chickamauga had slipped through the Union blockade off Wilmington, N.C., on the 28th.
Wilkinson transferred the passengers of the Shooting Star to a passing vessel, Albion Lincoln, which headed directly for New York to spread the word that the Chickamauga was out again.
Wilkinson later wrote of the transfer of prisoners: "In truth, I was relieved from an awkward dilemma by the opportune capture of the Albion Lincoln for there was absolutely no place for a female aboard the Chickamauga. I do not doubt, however, that the redoubtable Mrs. Drinkwater [wife of Shooting Star's Master] would have accommodated herself to the circumstances by turning me out of my own cabin.
"Heavens! what a tongue she wielded. The young officers of the Chickamauga relieved each other in boat duty to and fro and she routed every one of them ignominiously."
A Lady You Don't Want to Mess With.
--Old B-Runner
Wilkinson transferred the passengers of the Shooting Star to a passing vessel, Albion Lincoln, which headed directly for New York to spread the word that the Chickamauga was out again.
Wilkinson later wrote of the transfer of prisoners: "In truth, I was relieved from an awkward dilemma by the opportune capture of the Albion Lincoln for there was absolutely no place for a female aboard the Chickamauga. I do not doubt, however, that the redoubtable Mrs. Drinkwater [wife of Shooting Star's Master] would have accommodated herself to the circumstances by turning me out of my own cabin.
"Heavens! what a tongue she wielded. The young officers of the Chickamauga relieved each other in boat duty to and fro and she routed every one of them ignominiously."
A Lady You Don't Want to Mess With.
--Old B-Runner
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Fall of Plymouth, N.C.-- Part 2
Tinclad USS Whitehead was lashed to the port side of the Tacony, with tugs Bazely and Belle lashed to the Shamrock and Ostego. The fleet sailed boldly up and engaged the Plymouth batteries and rifle pits at close range.
A violent battle ensued in which the Commodore Hull sustained heavy damage. The Union cannonade detonated a large magazine ashore with a tremendous explosion shortly thereafter. The Southerners began to evacuate their fortifications.
Macomb reported: "I then made signal to cease firing, and then to land and take possession of the batteries, which was done without resistance." A landing party from the Wyalusing entered Fort Williams, captured prisoners and raided the Stars and Stripes again over Plymouth.
Macomb captured 37 prisoners, 22 cannon, a large quantity of stores, 200 stand of arms, and the sunken, but still important CSS Albemarle. For his dashing and timely action, Macomb was praised by Secretary Welles and advanced ten numbers in grade by Congress.
President Lincoln enthusiastically recommended the advancement, speaking of Commander Macomb's "distinguished conduct in the capture of the town of Plymouth, North Carolina...."
The Union again held this strategic town and thus commanded the Roanoke River, Albemarle Sound, and threatened the interior of North Carolina from the sea.
--Old B-R'er
A violent battle ensued in which the Commodore Hull sustained heavy damage. The Union cannonade detonated a large magazine ashore with a tremendous explosion shortly thereafter. The Southerners began to evacuate their fortifications.
Macomb reported: "I then made signal to cease firing, and then to land and take possession of the batteries, which was done without resistance." A landing party from the Wyalusing entered Fort Williams, captured prisoners and raided the Stars and Stripes again over Plymouth.
Macomb captured 37 prisoners, 22 cannon, a large quantity of stores, 200 stand of arms, and the sunken, but still important CSS Albemarle. For his dashing and timely action, Macomb was praised by Secretary Welles and advanced ten numbers in grade by Congress.
President Lincoln enthusiastically recommended the advancement, speaking of Commander Macomb's "distinguished conduct in the capture of the town of Plymouth, North Carolina...."
The Union again held this strategic town and thus commanded the Roanoke River, Albemarle Sound, and threatened the interior of North Carolina from the sea.
--Old B-R'er
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