George Henry Preble-- Part 5: Chasing the CSS Florida

The Winona was not on station at the onset of the Florida chase as it had been sent out in a chase of a blockade runner.  It was returning as the Florida chase began.

One of Preble's Oneida's boilers was shut down for repairs so just one was in operation.  This significantly slowed Preble's ship.

Preble placed the Oneidai n front of the fast-moving Florida.  At 6 p.m., he ordered shots fired across the Florida's bow (still not knowing what kind of ship he was facing).  And then another across the unknown ship's forefoot.  All three shots were fired just as soon as the Florida was within range.

The Florida did not stop.

--Old B-R'er