March 28, 1862: Reconnaissance of New Orleans Defenses

MARCH 28TH, 1862:  Commander Henry H. Bell reported a reconnaissance in the USS Kennebec of the Mississippi River and Forts Jackson and St. Philip.  He noted that the "two guns from St. Philip reached as far downriver as any from Jackson" and called attention to the obstruction, "consisting of a raft of logs and eight hulks moored abreast" across the river below St. Philip.

Scouting missions of this nature enabled Flag Officer Farragut to make careful and precise plans which ultimately led to successful passage of the forts and capture of New Orleans.

--Old B-Runner