March 28, 1865: Operations on the Neuse and Chowan Rivers

Commander Macomb received Porter's orders via the swift steamer USS Bat on March 30, and on the following day, replied from Roanoke Island:  "A immediately had an interview with the general and arranged that Captain Rhind would attend to everything relating to the Navy in the Neuse [River].

"I am on my way to Plymouth to carry out your orders as regards sending vessels to Winton, on the Chowan [River], and holding the same.  The Shokokon and Commodore Hull are on their way up from New Berne.

"As soon as possible after my arrival at Plymouth I shall proceed up the Chowan, dragging ahead for torpedoes."

Control of the sea and rivers continued to be as invaluable to the North in operations at the end of the war as it had from the start.

--Old B-Runner