JULY 10TH, 1864: Reflecting the widespread concern caused by the exploits of the CSS Florida (fully replacing the Alabama in Northern fears) off the Virginia and Maryland coasts, Rear Admiral lee of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron dispatched the screw steamers USS Mount Vernon, Lt. Cmdr. Henry A. Adams, Jr., and the USS Monticello, Lt. Cushing (yes, that Cushing who would have to put his plans to sink the Albemarle on hold) to "cruise together, and on finding the Florida will make a joint attack on her and capture her."
The career of the CSS Florida, one of the most successful Confederate raiders, was nearing an end, but the honor of capturing her was to go to neither Adams or Cushing. Many ships went after her, but few ever even got a glimpse of her.
This date, Lee also ordered the USS Ino, with her battery and crew disguised to look like a merchant ship to entice the Florida "alongside when you, being prepared, will open upon her suddenly and effectually."
The Germans and Allies used this guise in both world wars.
Hunting the Florida. --Old B-R
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