Aaron Anderson-- Part 4: The Potomac Flotilla

The Union's Potomac Flotilla began as a thrown-together collection of small steamers assigned to hold the Potomac River and protect Washington, D.C..  Some were former side wheel ferry boats like the one Anderson was assigned to, the USS Wayandank.

Eventually the Potomac Flotilla grew to twenty vessels operating out of Washington Navy Yard.  Its goal was to harass and drive off Confederate troops along and near the Potomac River, conduct raids (such as the one Anderson was on) prevent smuggling and to disrupt Confederate operations.  A particular emphasis was on the area known as the Northern Neck.

--Old B-Runner