SEPTEMBER 8TH, 1864: The USS Tritonia, Rodolph, Stockdale and an Army transport commenced a two-day operation to destroy a large salt works at Salt House Point near Mobile Bay. Only the Rodoph and Stockdale crossed the bar and entered Bob Secours River.
Arriving at the Point in mid-morning, two boats were sent ashore and immediately began destroying the salt works. They were so extensive that it took until the next day to complete their destruction.
Acting Lt. George Wiggin reported: "I found some of the works well built and very strong, particularly one known as Memphis Works, said to have cost $60,000.... Another work, which was very strong and well built, said to have cost $50,000."
Rear Admiral Farragut had ordered the attack and reported: "There were 55 furnaces, in which were manufactured nearly 2,000 bushels of salt per day, and their destruction must necessarily inconvenience the rebels."
No More Salt for Your Steak in Mobile. --Old B-Runner
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