Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Thomas C. Dunn & USS Emma at First Battle Fort Fisher-- Part 5: Getting the Troops Off the Beach and a New Commander

DECEMBER 27, 1864

At anchor and occasionally shelling the shore between midnight and 4 a.m, in the rear of Federal forces encamped on the beach.

At 6:45 a.m. sent first cutter ashore under the charge of  Acting Ensign Beetle, to reembark troops from the shore.

**************************

DECEMBER 28, 1864

At 6:45 a.m. saw a steamer  under the beach coming out,  and the Moccasin fired a gun.  The Emma went to quarters and stood in toward the steamer.  Opened fire from our starboard battery and 20-pounder pivot gun.  The steamer turned around and went back in again.

This must have been a blockade runner trying to leave.  I am not sure if the Emma was back on station off Old Inlet or still north of Fort Fisher.

Thomas Dunn observed five steamers and a schooner lying inside the river.

Acting Volunteer Lieutenant  James M. Williams came aboard and  assumed command of the USS Emma.

**************************

DECEMBER 29, 1864

At 11:30 a.m.  firing guns from Fort Fisher.

--Old B-Runner


No comments:

Post a Comment