MARCH 21ST, 1861: Gustavus V. Fox, ex-naval officer now a civilian, reconnoitered Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, as directed by President Lincoln, to determine the best means of relieving the fort. Based on his observations, Fox recommended relieving Fort Sumter by sea.
"I propose to put the troops on board of a large, comfortable sea steamer and hire two powerful light draft New York tug boats, having the necessary stores on board. These to be conveyed by the USS Pawnee...and the revenue cutter Harriet Lane...
"Arriving off the bar, I propose to examine by day the naval preparations and obstructions. If their vesels determine to oppose our entrance, and a feint of flag of truce would ascertain this, the armed ships must approach the bar and destroy them or drive them on shore.
"Major Anderson would do the same upon any vessel within the range of his guns and would also prevent any naval succor being sent down from the city."
Things Getting very tense at Fort Sumter. The War began Just 22 Days Later. --Old B-Runner
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