September 19, 1864-- Part 2: The Plot Discovered

John Yates Beall and his 19 men came aboard the Philo Parsons as passengers, but soon seized the steamers and took it to Middle Bass Island, on the way from Detroit to Sandusky.  (I've been to Middle Bass Island many times in the past, but for drinking wine at Lonz's Winery on it and enjoying the rock bands.  I never knew this to be a Civil War spot.)

While there, Beall was approached by an unsuspecting steamer, the Island Queen,  which was quickly captured and burned.  He then landed the passengers and cargoes of the two ships and proceeded with his improvised warship to Sandusky.

Meanwhile, Commander J.C. Carter of the USS Michigan had discovered the plot and had Captain Charles Cole, one of the organizers  of Beall's escapade, arrested along with an assistant.    As Beall and his men approached Sandusky, the prearranged signals were not made.

Confronted with uncertain circumstances and overwhelming odds, Beall and his men reluctantly, but wisely abandoned their part of the plan and took the Philo Parsons to Sandwich, Canada, where she was stripped and burned.

The Confederates then dispersed.

Worth A Shot.  --Old B-Runner