In the spring of 1864, Confederate General Robert E. Lee began looking for ways to regain initiative in the war in the Confederate heartland as well as reduce the building pressure from the Army of the Potomac against Petersburg and Richmond. He detached North Carolina native Robert F. Hoke to launch an offensive against Plymouth, North Carolina.
The Union garrison there was well-protected by forts, defensive positions and a formidable flotilla of ships. An important aspect of this venture would be the assistance of the CSS Albemarle.
Hoke met with Captain James Wallace Cooke, CSN, and found that the ram was still being fitted out. The ram wasn't on the prow yet, the shop lacked a capable crew and it had not even had its "shakedown" cruise yet.
Not to be stopped, Hoke promised mechanics to work on the ship and sailors from his infantry. Cooke agreed to join the planned attack by April 17,1864.
With a force of roughly 10,000 men, Hoke showed up at Plymouth on time. But, the Albemarle was not there.
--Old B-Runner
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