Thursday, April 4, 2013

Naval Happenings 150 Years Ago: April 4th; Final Preps for Charleston Attack

Rear Admiral Du Pont issued his order of battle and attack on Charleston, SC.  "...the squadron will pass up the main ship channel without returning the fire of the batteries on Morris Island....  The ships will open fire on Fort Sumter within easy range...and engage its left or northeast face at a distance from 600 to 800 yards firing low....After the reduction of Fort Sumter it is probable that the next point of attack will be the batteries on Morris Island."


President Lincoln on harbor defense.  He wanted "a steam ram, built so as to sacrifice nearly all capacity for carrying to those of speed and strength....her business would be to guard a particular harbour, as a Bull-dog guards his master's door."


CSS Alabama captured the ship Louise Hatch off the coast of Brazil with a cargo of coal.  Semmes took it with him to afford a ready supply of coal.  Good thing as an expected supply ship didn't show up.  Semmes burned the ship April 17th.

Old B-Runner

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