In January 1863, the sloop Florida beached at the mouth of the St. Marks River as it was preparing to run the blockade. It was spotted at daylight and a Federal gunboat came in. It shelled both the Florida and the lighthouse and then captured the sloop, but the crew escaped.
In February 1863, the British schooner Pacifique was captured at St. Marks River.
In April of that year, the USS Stars and Stripes gave chase for more than three hours to a "side-wheeled schooner-rigged steamer of unknown registry that sailed out of the St. Marks River. Later, the Union vessel reported that they had been chasing the CSS Spray and that it was steaming at 14 knots and managed to get away.
--Old B-Runner
I have never been able to verify the ship that the "Stars and Stripes" chased was in fact the "Spray". Where did you find that "Stars and Stripes" reported she was chasing the "Spray". Greatly appreciated! Thanks. Glad I've discovered your blog!
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