Lincoln Visits Richmond This Day in 1865-- Part 1

APRIL 4, 1865:  Rear Admiral Porter accompanied President Lincoln up the James River to Richmond on board his flagship the Malvern.  When obstructions blocked the flagship's way, the two embarked in Porter's barge, with three aides and boat crew of twelve.

Thus in a single small boat under oars, significantly by water, the President reached the Southern capital that for four years had been so near for conquest by Union armies, yet had so long been held safe by the remarkable Lee and his hard fighting army.

Of course, here was the leader of the Union about to enter the capital of the Confederacy accompanied only by an escort of 12 men.  Just days earlier it had still been under Lee's control and, who knew what dangers might still be in the capital.

Of interest also, the USS Malvern had been the former blockade-runner Ella and Annie and had been Porter's flagship at both battles of Fort Fisher.

--Old B-Runner