AUGUST 30TH, 1864: Even though the major rivers in the West were under Union control, Confederate batteries and troops would set up ambushes at various points and times. The USS Fawn convoyed Union troops and artillery in the transport Kate Hart on an expedition up the White River from Devall's Bluff, Arkansas. They were to join General West's cavalry who were searching for General Shelby's force of Confederate raiders who were operating along the White River.
The Fawn and transport returned to Devall's Bluff on Sept. 2nd and commenced a second foray with a larger force in three more transports. On Sept. 3rd, above Peach Orchard Bluffs, Confederate batteries opened on the convoy, but the Fawn drove them away. However, the convoy was unable to proceed further because of low water and scouts and cavalry put ashore to communicate with General West, and returned.
The convoy then returned to Devall's Bluff on Sept. 6th. Shelby's force continued to elude Union troops and harass shipping along the White River.
--Old B-Runner
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