TITLE: Official records of the Union and Confederate Navies in the War of the Rebellion. / Series I - Volume 5: Operations on the Potamac and Rappahannock Rivers (December 7, 1861 - July 31, 1865); Atlantic Blockading Squadron (April 4, 1861 - July 15, 1861) AUTHOR: United States. Naval War Records Office PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1897 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B 3tI~aca, ~ew ~Jcrk BERNARD ALBERT SINN COLLECTION NAVAL HISTORY AND BIOGRAPHY THE GIFT OF BERNARD A. SINN, 97 191 Title Page Page R001 OFFICIAL RECORDS OF THE uNION AND CONFEDERATE NAVIES IN THE WAR OF THE REBELLION. PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF The Hon. H. A. HERBERT, Secretary of the Navy, BY EJEUT. COMMANDER RICHARD RU8II, U. 8. NAVY, SUPERINTENDENT NAVAL WAR RECORDS, AND MR. ROBERT II. WOOD8. B~ AUTHORITY OF AN ACT OF CONGRESS APPROVED JULY 31, 1894. SERIES IVOLUME 5. OIPIE RAJTIONS ON TiEIIE POTOMAC AND RAPPATIANNO CI~ RIV~Rs FROM DECEMBER 7, 1861, TO JULY 31, 1865. ATLANTIC ~LOCI(ADING SQUADRON FROM APRIL 4 TO JULY 15, 1861. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1897 Page R002 of 7 4 Page R003 CONTENTS OF PI{ECEDIN~ VOLUMES. VOLUME 1. Operations of the cruisers from January 19, 1861, to December 31, 1862. VOLUME 2. Operations of the cruisers from January 1, 1863, to March 31, 1864. VOLUME 3. Operations of the cruisers from April 1, 1864, to 1)ecember 30, 1865. VOLUME 4. Operations in the Gulf of Mexico from November 15, 1860, to June 7, 1861. Opera- tions on the Atlantic Coast from January 1 to May 13, 1861. Operations on the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers from January 5 to December 7, 1861. II Page R004 Table of Contents Page R005 TABLE OF CONTENTS. Page. List of illustrations Preface Order of compilation of Series I xiii, xiv List of vessels of Potomac Flotilla and Atlantic Blockading Squadron xv, Xvi Calendar, 1861 to 1865 Operations on the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers 3613 Principal events: Union reports Engagement at Cockpit Point, Va., Jannary 3, 1862 15 Passage of the U. 8. 5. Pensacola by the batteries on the Potomac River, January 12, 1862 1618 Passage of the U. S. S. 1-larriet Lane by the batteries on the Potomac River, February 15, 1862 22 Evacuation by Confederates of batteries on Potomac River, March 9, 1862 25 Expedition lip the Rappahannock River to Tappahannock, Va., April 1315, 1862 3336 Expedition np the Rappahannock River to Fredericksbnrg, Va., April 20, 1862 37, 38 Reconnoissance of Mobjack Bay and Piankatank River, Vir- ginia, April 29 and May 2, 1862 44, 45 Burning of the schooner Frances Elmor, October 8, 1862 118, 119 Burning of the ship Alleghanian, October 29, 1862 137141 Expeditions to Gwynns Island and Nomini Creek, Virginia, November 3 and 4, 1862 146148 Engagement at Port Royal, Va., December 4, 1862 182188 Engagement at Brandywine Hill, Rappahannock River, Vir ginia, December 10, 11, 1862 190196 Destrnction of salt works on Dividing Creek, Virginia, January 12, 1863 209 Destrnction of Confederate stores at Tappahannock, Va., May 30, 1863 277 Transfer of Colonel Kilpatricks command across the Rappahan- nock River, June 1, 1863 281 Attack upon transport George Peabody by Confederates at Mathias Point, Va., July 18, 1863 305 Receipt of news of a Confederate expedition to capture boats on the Rappahannock River, Jnly 24, 1863 310 Capture of U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance, August 16, 1563 322346 Expedition to the Northern Neck of Virginia, January 12, 1864. 388 Capture of the tug Titan by a party of Confederates, March 5, 1864 398401 Expedition np the Rappahannock River, April 1821, 1864 411 Expedition to Carters Creek, Virginia, April 29, 1864 415 Expedition to Mill Creek, Virginia, May 12, 13, 1864 421424 Expedition up the Rappahannock River, May 1619, 1864 429, 436 Page R006 VI TABLE OF CONTENTS. Operations on the Potomac and Rappahannock riversContinued. Page. Principal events: Union reports Experiment with a Confederate torpedo taken from the Rappa hannock River, May 18, 1864 431 Destruction of the light on Blakistone Island by Confederates, May 19, 1864 433 Expedition to the Northern Neck of Virginia, June 1121, l864~ 442451 Expedition to Milford Haven and Stutts Creek, September 24, 1864 484 Captnrc of U. S. picket boat No. 2, October 8, 1864 486 Burning of the steamer Knickerbocker by Confederates, Febru- ary 15, 1865 508 Expedition to Fredericksburg, Va., March 68, 1865 522 Expedition up the Rappahannock River, March 1214, 1865 527530 Operations in Mattox Creek, Va., March 1618, 1865 534536 Capture of the schooners St. Marys and J. B. Spafford by a party of Confederates, March 31, 1865 540 Capture of the steamer Harriet De Ford by a party of Confeder ates, April 5, 1865 541546 Confederate reports Letter from Warner T. Jones regarding burning of the ship Alleghanian 141 Reports of the engagement at Port Royal, Va., December 4, 1862 186188 Reports of the capture of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reli ance 344346 Miscellaneous reports relating to affairs on the Rappahannock River 578,579 Atlantic Blockading Squadron 617813 Principal events: Union reports Arrival of Flag-Officer Stringham at Hampton Roads, Va., May 13, 1861 629 Engagements with the Confederate battery at Sewells Point, May 18, 19, 1861 644648 Capture of the ship A. B. Thompson by the C. 8. 8. Lady Davis, May 19, 1861 649658 Capture of the C. S. privateer schooner Savannah, June 3, 1861 - 691 Engagement with the Confederate battery at Pig Point, Va., June 5, 1861 697700 Affair on the Rappahannock River, June 24, 1861 738741 Recapture of the prize brig Hannah Balch by the C. S. privateer Coffee, June 25, 1861 744 Exchange of shots with Confederate battery at Hatteras Inlet, N. C., July 10, 1861 791 Confederate reports Reports of the engagements at Sewells Point, Va., May 18 and 19, 1861 646648 Testimony regarding the capture of the ship A. B. Thompsorn. - 650658 Letter of marque of the C. S. privateer Savannah 692 Reports of the engagement at Pig Point, Va., June 5, 1861 699 Report of the affair on the Rappahanuock River, .June 24, 186k 740 Miscellaneous reports and correspondence relating to affairs on the Atlantic Coast 79681 List of Illustrations Page R007 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Page. United States Ship Portsmonth. Frontispiece. Sketch of Fort Lowry, Va 35 United States Steamer Jacob Bell 183 Drawing of a Confederate torpedo 433 United States Steamer Fuchsia~ 484 United States Steamer Minnesota 617 United States Steamer Qnaker City 667 Great Seal of the Confedernte States 693 United States Steamer Harriet Lane 697 VI Page R008 Page R009 PREFACE. The publication of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Navies in the war of the rebellion was begun November 1, 1894, by the Navy Department, nnder authority of an act of Congress approved July 31, 1894. 1 he plan of publication adopted by the Department for the compilation includes only the use of such material as may be certified to be contemporaneous naval records of the war, which is divided into three series, in the following order of arrangement: 1. The first series embraces the reports, orders, and correspondence, both Union and Confederate, relating to all naval operations on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and inland waters of the United States during the war of the rebellion, together with the operations of ves- sels acting singly, either as cruisers or privateers, in different parts of the world. These reports are accompanied by occasional maps and d ia~rams. In this series the papers are arranged according to squadrons and flotillas, chronologically, and, as far as liossible, ftc Union reports of any events are immediately followed by the Confederate reports. 11. The second series embraces the reports, orders, and correspond- ence relating to 1. The condition of the Union Navy in 1861, before the com- inencernent of hostilities, and to its increase during the progress of the war, including the annual arid special reports of the Secretary of the Navy and chiefs of the various bnreaus. 2. The construction and outfit of the Confederate Navy, includ- ing privateers, setting forth also the annual and special reports of the Confederate Secretary of the INavy and chiefs of bureaus. 3. Statistical data of all vessels, Union and Confederate, as far as can be obtained. 4. Returns of naval and military property captured by the navies of both sides during the war. 5. Correspondence relating to naval prisoners. This series is also arranged chronologically in each of the above sections as far as practicable. I Page R010 x PREFACE. III. The third serie~ embraces all reports, orders, correspondence, and returns of the Union and Confederate authorities not specially relating to the matter of the first and second series. It is the intention of the Department to introduce throughout the volumes of the different series illustrations of each class or type of vessels referred to, in order to preserve the identity of these ships as they actually appeared during the war. These cuts have beeii repro- duced either from photographs of the vessels themselves or from the carefully prepared drawings made from official sources. Much difficulty has been found in collecting the records, for while the official reports of commanders of fleets and of vessels acting singly are on file in the Navy Department, it is found that the correspondence between flag-officers and their subordinates is frequently missing. Without this squadroii correspondence the historical value of the work would necessarily be incomplete, and the Department, therefore, has spared no pains to secure the letter books and papers of the chief actors on both sides. These papers have for the most part been obtained, and they have been copiously used in the compilation of the work. The reports of the Union commanders are full and fairly coin- plete. It is to be regretted, how ever, that the Confederate records are not equally complete, due to the great difficulty found in collecting them, and also to the fact that a large part of the archives of the Confederate Navy Department was burned at the close of the war. Frequent careful searches throughout various parts of the country, conducted by a special agent of the Department, have brought to light many duplicates of these papers, found among the personal files of participants. It is hoped that the publication will revive the interest of the participants in the events referred to and lead them to bring to the notice of the Department the whereabouts of any papers bearing upon naval operations in the civil war of which they may have knowledge. The fourth volume of the records (Series I, volume 4), which has recently been l)ubhished by the Department, gives the operations in the Gulf of Mexico from November 15, 1860, to June 7, 1861; on the Atlantic Coast from January 1 to May 113, 1861, and on the Potomac and IRappahannock rivers from January 5 to December 7, 1861. Fol- lowing the plan of publication adopted in volume 4, the present volume (Series I, volume 5) is divided into two divisions, and comprises (1) the reports of operations on the Potomac and Ilappahannock river Page R011 PREFACE. XI to the close of the war; (2) operations of the Atlantic Blockading Squadron from May 13 to July 15, 1861. The reports and correspond- ence are placed chronologically in each division, with a distinct heading for every paper. In the record of events in which both sides took part, Confederate reports (where they could be obtained) immediately follow the Union reports, while the miscellaneous Confederate corre- spondence is placed at the end of each division. Reference to the table of contents will show the context of these Conf~derate papers. It is believed that the chronological arrangement of the records, in connection with the fall and complete index to each volume, will afford ample means of reference to its contents without other subdi- vision or classification. In reports of special or single events in which papers bear specific relation to those events, the chronological order has been somewhat modified, and such documents have been placed together in the compilation. RICHARD RUSH, ROBERT II. Woons, (Jompi1c~ s. NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washiuqton, D. C.. March 15, 1897 Page R012 Page R013 ORDER OF COMPILATION OF NAVAL WAR RECORDS. SEIRIES I. 1. Operations of the Cruisers, 18611865. Union cruisers. West India (Flying) Squadron, under Acting Rear.Aduiiral Wilkes, U. S. N., 18621863. WTest India (Flying) Squadron, under Acting Rear-Admiral Larduer, U. S. N., 1863-1864. Confederate cruisers and privateers. 2. Operations in the Gulf of Mexico, January to June 7, 1861. Surrender of the Pensacola Navy Yard. Cooperation of the Navy in the relief of Fort Pickens. 3. Operations on the Atlantic Coast, January to May 13, 1861. Cooperation of the Navy in the attempts to relieve Fort Sumter. Abandonment and destruction of the Norfolk Navy Yard. Home Squadron, under Flag.Officer Pendergrast, U. S. N. 4. Operations on the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers, 18611865. Potomac Flotilla, under Commander Ward. U. S. N., 1861. Potomac Flotilla, under Captain Craven, U. S. N., 1861. Potomac Flotilla, under Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. N., 18611862. Potomac Flotilla, under Commodore Harwood, U. S. iN., 1862-1863. Potomac Flotilla, under Commander Parker, U. S. N., 18631865. 5. Atlantic Blockading Squadrons, 18611865. Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Flag-Officer Striugham, U. S. N., May 13 to Sept. 23, 1861. West India Squadron, under Flag.Officer Pendergrast, U. S. N., 1861. Naval Defenses of Virginia and North Carolina, under Flag.Offlcer Barron, C. S. N. Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Flag Officer Goldaborough, U. S. N., 1861. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Rear-Admiral Goldsborough, U. S. N., 1861-1862. Naval Defenses of Virginia and North Carolina, under Flag.Officer Lynch, C. S. N. James River Squadron, under Flag.Offlcer Buchanan, C. S. N. James River Squadron, under Flag.Officer Tattuall, C. S. N. James River Flotilla, under Commodore Wilkes, U. S. N., 1862. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Acting Rear.Admiral Lee, U. S. N., 1862-1864. James River Squadron, under Flag-Officers Forrest and Mitchell, C. S. N. Naval Defenses Inland Waters of North Carolina, under Commander Pinkney, C. S. N. Naval defenses Cape Fear River, North Carelina, nuder Flag.Offlcer Lynch, C. S. N. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Rear-Admiral Porter, U. S. N., 18641865. James River Squadron, under Flag-Officers Mitchell and Semmes, C. S. N. Naval Defenses .Cape Fear River, North Carolina, under Flag.Officer Pinkney, C. S. N. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Acting Rcar.Admiral Radford, U. S. N. 1865. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Rear.Admiral Du Pont, U. S. N.. 1861-1863. * Naval Defenses of South Carolina and Georgia, under Flag.Offlcer Tattuall, C. S. N. Naval Defensesof Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, under Flag-Officerlngraham, C. S. N. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, under Rear.Admiral Dahlgren, U. S. N., 1863-1865. Naval Defenses of Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, under Flag.Offlcer Tucker, C. S. N. Naval Defeases of Savannah, Ga., under Flag.Officers Hunter and Tattuall, C. S. N. *The Confederate material under this head is very scant. It is therefore hoped that those whohave any Confederate naval documents upon the subject will communicate with the Qifice of Naval War Records, Navy Department, Washington, D. C. XZLL Page R014 XIV ORDER OF COMPILATION OF NAVAL WAR RECORDS. 6. Gulf Blockading Squadrons, 18611865. Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Flag-Officer Mervine, U. S. N., 1861. Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Flag-Officer McKean, U. S. N., 1861-1862. * Mississippi River Defenses, nnder Flag-Officer Rollins, C. S. N. East Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Flag-Officer McKean, U. S. N.. 1862. East Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Acting Rear-Admiral Larduer, U. S. N., 1862. East Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Acting Rear-Admiral Bailey, U. S. N., 1862-1864. East Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Captain Greene, U. S. N., 1864. East Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Acting Rear-Admiral Stribling, U. S. N., 18641865. West Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Flag-Officer Farragut, U. S. N., 1862-1863. Mortar Flotilla, under Commander Porter, U. S. N., 1862. Lower Mississippi River Defenses, under Commander J. K Mitchell, C. S. N. Mobile Defenses, under Flag-Officer Randolph, C. S. N. Trans-Mississippi Marine Department, under Major Leon Smith, C. S. A. West Gulf Blockading Squadron. under Commodore Bell, U. S. N. la(l interim), 1863. West Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Rear-Admiral Farragut, U. 5, N., 1864. * Mobile Defenses, under Admiral Buchanan, C. S. N. West Gulf Blockadin~ Squadron, under Comusodore Palmer, U. S. N., 18641865. West Gulf Blockading Squadron, under Acting Rear-Admiral Thatcher, U. S. N., 1865. * Mobile Defenses, under Flag-Officer Farrand, C. S. N. 7. Operations on the Western Rivers, 18611865. Naval Forces on Western Waters, under Commander Rodgers, U. S. N., 1861. Naval Forces on Western Waters, under Flab-Officer Foote. U. S. N., 18611862. * Mississippi River Defenses, under Flag-Officer Rollins, C. S. N. Naval Forces on Western Waters, under Flag-Officer Davis, U. S. N., 1862. * Mississippi River Defense Fleet, under Captain Montgomery. C. S. A. * Mississippi River Defenses, under Commander R. F. Pinkucy, C. S. N * Mississippi River Defenses, under Flag-Officer Lynch, C. S. N. Mississippi Squadron, under Rear-Admiral Porter, U. S. N., 18621864. Mississippi Squadron, under Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U. S. N., 18641865. * Naval Defenses of Red River, Louisiana, under Lieutenant J. II. Carter, C. S. N. * The Confederate material under this head is very scant. It is therefore hoped that those who have any Confederate naval documents upon the subject will communicate with the Office of Naval War Records, Navy Department, Washington, D. C Special Index Page R015 LIST OF UNITED STATES VESSELS OF WAR SERVING iN THE POTOMAC FLOTILLA AND ATLANTIC BLOCKADING SQUADRON DURING THE PERiODS COVERED BY THIS VOLUME. NAME. lIATE. TONNAGE.: CLASS. CREW. GUNS. ______________________________________________________ K ______________________________________________________ ___________ _____________________________________________________________________________ ________________ Adela Fourth 583 Side-wheel steamer 70 7 Adolph Hugel Fourth 269 Mortar schooner 34 3 Albatross . Fourth 178 Screw steamer 68 3 Anacostia Fourth . -- 217 ... .do 67~ 2 Arletta Fourth 119 Mortar schooner 39 3 Aroostook Fourth 507 Screw steamer 94 4 Bailey Coast Survey schooner 12 Bainbridge Fourth 259 Sailing brig 72 6 Baltimore Fourth 100 Side-wheel steamer 18 1 Banshee Fourth 533 do 60 3 Bibb Coast Survey schooner Cactus Fourth 176 Side-wheel steamer 39 1 Casco Fourth 614 Ironclad 69 Chimo Fourth 614 do 51 1 Cceur de Lion Fourth 110 Side-wheel steamer 29 3 Commodore Barney.... Fourth - . - 513 do 108 7 Commodore Jones Fourth 542 . -- - .do j 103 6 Commodore Morris - . Fourth 532 do 83 6 Commodore Read. Fourth 650 do 84 6 Corwin - -. Coast Survey steaiucr Crusader Fourth 545 Screw steamer 83 7 Cumberland Second... 1, 726 Sailing sloop 288 24 Currituck Fourth ... 193 Screw steamer 52 5 Dale Fourth ... 566 Sailing sloop 123 15 Dan Smith. - Fourth ... 149 Mortar schooner 32 5 Dana Coast Survey schooner 11 Dawn Fourth .. 399 Screw steamer 34 2 Daylight Fourth do 682 4 Delaware Fourth. - 357 Side.wheel steamer 57 3 Don Fourth 390 Screw steamer 94 8 Dragon Fourth ... 118 do 42 2 Ella Fourth ... 230 Side.wheel steamer 39 2 Eureka Fourth ... 50 Screw steamer 19 1 Flag Third 938 do 116 7 Fuchsia Fourth ... 180 do 43 3 Fourth ... 274 Mortar schooner George Maugham 26 3 Harriet Lane Third 619 Side.wheel steamer 100 5 Heliotrope Fourth .. 238 do 66 1~ Howell Cobb Coast Survey schooner Iroquois . Third 1, 016 Screw sloop 154 8 Isaac N. Seymour Fourth ... 133 Side-wheel steamer 30 . 2 Jacob Bell Fourth ... 229 do 49 2 Jamestown Third 985 Sailing sloop 186 22 Juniper Fourth -- . 116 Screw steamer 26 2 Keystone State Third 1, 364 Side.wheel steamer 133 6 King Philip Fourth . -. 500 do 14 1 Leslie Fourth ... 100 Screw steamer 10 2 Little Ada .. Fourth ... 196 do 53 2 b8sjr.a Third 832 Side-wheel steamer I 145 9 x Page R016 XVI UNITED STATES VESSELS OF WAR. List of (ailed Slates v658e18 of war serrinq in the Potomac Flotilla and Atlantic Blockad- ing Squadron, etcContinued. NAME. RATE. TONNAOEJ CLASS. CREW. GUNS. Matthew Vassar Fourth ...~ 182 Mortar schooner 29 3 Mercury Fourth 187 Side-wheel steamer 56 2 Minnesota First 3, 307 Screw frigate 540 52 Moccasin . - -. Fourth - - 192 Screw steamer 31 3 Monticello ... - -- Fourth 055 do 96 3 Morse Fourth . -- 513 Side-wheel steamer 78 6 Mount Vernon Fourth 625 Screw steamer 50 3 Nansemond Fourth 340 Side-wheel steamer 55 3 Niagara First 4, 582 Screw steamer 387 12 Penguin Fourth 389 do 69 Periwinkle Fourth . 387 do 37 2 Perry Fourth .9 280 Sailing brig 77 7 Pickethoat No. 4 20 Screw steamer 9 1 Picketboat No.0 10 do 7 1 Port Royal Third 805 Side-wheel steamer 103 8 Primrose Fourth 91 Screw steamer 26 2 Quaker City Second 1, 600 Side-wheel steamer 129 4 Racer Fourth .9 252 Mortar schooner .~ 35 3 Reliance Fourth 00 Screw steamer 17 1 Rescue .~ Fourth..) 111 do 20 3 Resolute Fourth...~ 90 do 16 Roanoke . First 1, 435 Ironclad . 347 6 St. Lawrence Second 1, 726 Sailing frigate 374 50 Sangamon Third 844 Ironclad 85 2 Satellite , Fourth 217 Side-wheel steamer 43 2 Saugus Fourth 1, 034 Ironclad 78 2 Savannah Second 1, 708 Sailing s1oop 264 26 Seminole Third 801 Screw s1oop 120 5 Sophronia Fourth 217 Mortar schooner 32 3 Stepping Stones Fourth 226 Side-wheel steamer 21 1 Susquehanna First 2,450 do 264 16 T. A. Ward Fourth..., 284 Mortar schooner 27 3 Teaser Fourth 90 Screw steamer 25 2 Thomas Freehorn Fourth 269 Side-wheel steamer 67 2 Tulip Fourth 183 Screw steamer I ~ Union Fourth 1,314 do 10 4 Vandalia Fourth 783 Saihin~ sloop 179! 20 Verbena . Fourth 104 Screw steamer 20 2 Wabash I First - -... 3, 274 Screw frigate 523 46 Wachosett I 167 10 Third 1, 032 Screw sloop Watch Fourth ... 65 Screw steamer 18 2 Western World Fourth . 450 do 90 5 William Bacon Fourth ... 183 Mortar schooner 36 3 William G.Putnam.... Fourth 149 Side-wheel steamer 17 2 Wyandauk Fourth .. 399 .. - ..do . ..... 43 2 Wyandotte Fourth ... 458 Screw steamer 73 5 Yankee Fourth ... 328 Side-wheel steamer 48 2 Young America Fourth - . . 173 Screw steamer 13 Young Rover Fourth ... 418 ~-----do 85 5 Zeta Fourth do 10 (a) e No hattery Page R017 C.I)I LI) Cl) ~I~J ~ _________ ~ ~ H Z~)C~L~ ~ - ~ __ ~. -~ ~ -3 -___ I ___________ ~ CI) CI) __ ~.~I~~yt ~ CI) CI) CI) CI) t.~ 3 I H I CI) QC~)OCCZt~ ~ I CI) CI) (I) tfr-~I--~ ~iz~ H I__ ~-~: ~ C~COVVi C___ :~-~ ~ ~ CI) ~~C)O~ ~ ~ z C~1~ ~ CI) ~COLC~C;i ~ CI) ~I-~ ~1~c~ ~gC~ ~ I~ Z ~ ~-~: ~-3 ~ 0 LTJ z U d ~G) I Page R018 C,) 0 0CO[~V~ 0 ~ C,) t~~a C,) 0 0~0CO~ 0 C,) ~ ~ 0C~~C~CO~ Q~COUZC)1 C,) 0 .~I0 _ H z COISOV~~ -~ 0 Ca~ C,) 0 0 C,) 0 C,) 0 0 3~CO _ 1~L~-~ C,) ~ ~ C,) tS,~IZ(~~ I 0 -f.Kj 0 0C~0COL~ CL CL w H C,) 0 -~I0Ca~Oa 0 ~ -1 ~ CO L~ V1 ~ ~(~ I~ I~ 0 Ca3 O~ CO t~ C,) 0 o~c~-~ 0 ~ 0~Q~CO~ C,) ~ -~I 0 Ca3 C,) IN~t~~ 0 CO~QIY~~ 0 ~ 0 Ca~ 0a CO t~O ~ OaCO~C)1 10~30 z OaCO~V1 C,) 0 0 0 C,) 0 C~0~CO~ 0 C,) 0 C,) 0 0~0CO~ 0 OCO C,) COI:(C)1IxH-~ 0 z 0 LH z U Page R019 Ci) I~-~~ C)ZL~ CZ1~Q1~~ Ci) ~- ~ I ~ :-~ (172 C~I~C~-.~ Ci) Ci) z I:d.I Ci) ~ ~: ~ ~ ~ ~ Ci) ~ :-~ Ci) C~1~ ~ -3 ~ :-~ z 0 [TJ z U Page R020 ~- 1 Z ~ cj~ Ct z H Z Ct ~C~dy~CJ!, Ct Ct Ct ~1~ 1 ~ ~: I _________ ~ C~ t~ H ~- -1 ~ ~ ~zsz~1 Ct 1s~ IN~ ~ C~ ~ i: ~ Ct Ct Ct :~~Ct z Ct 1 ~ Ct UZI\.~ 1~CtC~ ~1~Ct~ H m 0) 0 [TJ z U d Page R021 Ct CZ~\~QICt~~ ~ Ct t~:d\~ -ThZC~ )C~~ CI ~ ~ Ct Ct ~ :~~-~: i ~ I Ct z __ I Ct Q1Ct~-~ CC!Ct~-~ Ct 4~--VZC~. :~-~-~ ~-~ :~-~-~ -1ZC~C~ ~ Ct ~ C~:k:~ I C~1CtI~ -. ___ ___ ___ ~ I Ct I~~1~ Ct Ct Ct O~C~t~Cr ~ C~ ___ K Ct i~-~.~ ~ ~ ~ Ct 4--]~C~ Ct~ Ct tIC~-~ ~HL ~U) Ct Ct ~ C~ ~ ~~-I~ ~ z ~ ~ ~ -~-~ Ct I-~-~ -~ I 0 z U Page R022 Page A001 Page A002 UNITED STATES SHIP PORTSMOUTH Page 1 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAf AND Ri~PPAHANNO~K RIVERS. FROM DECEMBER 7, 1861, TO JULY 31, 1865. N W RVOL 5 Page 2 Page 3 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHAN NOCK RIVERS. FROM DECEMBER 7, 1861, TO JULY 31, 1865. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, of having assumed command of the Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac River, December 7, 1861. SIR: In obedience to your order of the 5th instant, I yesterday assumed command of the Potomac Flotilla. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of attack upon the enemys pickets near Freestone Point, Va. U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Off Mattawoman Creek, December 9, 1861. SIR: I have the honor to report to you that this morning abont 9:30 oclock, seeing the enemys pickets, three camp wagons, and a monnted officer coming down the road to the southward of Freestone Point and halting at some buildings near the beach, I directed the steamers Jacob Bell and Anacostia to shell and burn the buildings. I stood in with this vessel as far as her draft of water would admit to protect them, in event of the enemy bringing a field battery to Freestone Point. After shelling the buildings and hill and driving back the pickets, Lieutenant-Commander McCrea landed with a few men and fired four houses, which have since burned to the ground. They contained sut- Jers stores, flour, etc. As eighteen hours elapsed before the fires sub- sided, I judge that the quantity of stores must have been considerable. The enemy fired but a few musket shot. I am, sir, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, B. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 4 4 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting report of Acting Miaster Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Dana, regarding affairs on the lower Potomac. U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac Flotilla, December 12, 1861. SIR: I have the honor to report that the enemy have placed in bat- tery several fieldpieces to the westward of Boyds Hole and nearly opposite to Maryland Point. Means have been taken to direct all ves- sels to keep close to the Maryland shore in passing this battery. At Potomac Creek some work is going on, sounding at night like the beating of boiler iron. It has been reported to me that a contraband from the Lower Macho- doc states that on Saturday night last a small steamer sheathed with sheet iron was brought from the Happahannock to the Lower Macho- doc on wheels, and is intended to carry goods across the Potomac; that she had a small gun (howitzer) and was supplied with small arms. I have taken all precautions at my command as regards her. I enclose herewith a copy of a report of Masters Mate W. T. Street, command- ing schooner Dana, in which several persons are accused of being engaged in conveying goods, etc., from Maryland to Virginia. On reconnoitering the banks of the river this morning, a foraging party with wagons was discovered on a farm about 2 miles above Occo- quan Bay. Two shells were thrown amongst them, which only served to drive them out of range. I neglected to mention that the new battery near Boyd~s Hole is sup- ported by a regiment encamped on the farm of Colonel Tayloe and the farm adjoining, out of the range of our guns. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, it. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. CUTTER DANA, Off Blakistone Island, December 11, 1861. SIR: Yesterday morning I left Blakistone Island to search the creeks between Bretons Bay and Piney Island [Point 0?] for boats that I had received information had been in the habit of crossing to Virginia. I anchored off Poplar Hill Creek, took my small boat, and proceeded up the creek, but found nothing but a small fiatboat that was entirely worthless. I again got underway and dropped down to Bley Creek, im- mediately opposite to Ragged Point. This creek is a much larger one than Poplar Hill and better suited as a place of embarking, there being a road down to the beach, which had been evidently used lately for that purpose. I was told on shore that the boats that cross here come from Virginia. I did not find any boats in this creek, nor who the parties were who are engaged in the business. It being calm, I could not pro- ceed any farther. I concluded to lie there all night. At 8 p. m. I saw a white light down the river. Supposing it to be the U. S. schooner Bailey signaling for me, I sent my boat to her, as I could not get underway. While absent the wind sprang up and ran the vessel up to me. She proved to be the Bailey, which came to anchor close by. Cap- tam Gray came on board and reported that he had five contraban Page 5 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 5 negroes on board from Lower Machodoc, Va. He wished me to go on board and question them, as they had some important information from there. I accordingly went on board and saw Henry Lewis, belonging to Dr. Brown; Parker Smith, belonging to Mr. Dailey, of Kinsale; Frederick Johnson and Robert Mealy, belonging to Mr. Bailey, and John Smith, who stated that last Saturday night a small steamboat was hauled on wheels from the Rappahannock to Machodoc Creek, on the Potomac, and that it has a small cannon on board and a hundred muskets. Smith says it is built of wood and sheathed with sheet iron and is intended to carry goods across the Potomac, but I received information abont a month ago from a contraband that they intended to come out and try to take my vessel; he also states that they have pickets on Ragged Point and that [at] the church near Kinsale there are 500 men camped with four cannon; all of the contrabands confirmed the above. Mr. Gray also received information at Piney Point that there were goods in a fish house at the mouth of Floods Creek to be taken to Virginia. The place being on my station, I proceeded thither in company with the Bailey, arriving oft the creek, at 12 oclock at night, but not thinking it advisable to land until daylight. After getting an early breakfast we went on shore with a boats crew from each vessel and were met by John Hanson (colored), belonging to Mr. Able, who gave us the following information: That there were two boats at the head of the creek, one belonging [to] Mr. T. W. Gough and the other to Mr. Matingly, and that they went over to Virginia last Friday night, rowed by William Dims, belonging to T. W. Gough; John Gordon (colored), Wat Barnes, John Bradmar, Ned Downs, and Ned Owens, all negroes. I accordingly took four of my men with four from the Bailey and went up the creek for the boats. I found them as stated. The oars were hidden in the woods; the rowlocks are muffled with sheep- skins. I sent the boats np by Captain Gray, who will give you any information you may desire. The parties who are engaged in convey- ing the goods to Virginia are T. W. Gough, Mr. Matingly, John Black- iston [Blakistone0?], jr., N. Ford~ Mr. Phinick, Mr. Dills, George Simms and brother, and Mr. Moore. Mr. T. W. Gough also uses his teams to haul the goods from Leonardtown. This information is from William Lawrence (colored) and confirmed by all the colored people in the neighborhood. Waiting for further instructions I remain, most respectfully, ~your obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Acting Miasters ilifate, Commanding Dana. [Lieutenant R. II. WYMAN, Commanding Potomac Flotilla.] [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, D. C.], December 12, 18618 a. m. The Stepping Stones is up frpm below; went into the Occoquan yes- terday to reconnoiter; was fired at with musketry and some fieldpieces, which was returned from a howitzer. Vessel hit by two or three mus- ket balls only; got 3 miles up the creek, and when fired at sent a shell over the village; got 4~ feet water. J. A. DAHLGREN. NAVY DEPARTMENT Page 6 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of commandant navy yard, Washington, transmitting report from Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regard- the cutting out of steamer George Page. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 16, 1861. SIR: 1 have the honor to acknowledge the reference to me by the Department of a volunteer on the part of certain seamen to cut out the PQqe. Not being possessed of the information necessary to form a judgment as to the practicability of snch an attempt, I referred the paper to the commander of the flotilla. His answer is herewith enclosed, which I respectfully submit. I also return the letter of the seamen, and have the honor to be, Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. A. DALGHREN, Commandant. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac Flotilla, December 15, 1861. SIR: In answer to your reference for my opinion in regard to the practicability of cutting out the Page, I will first give you her present position as nearly as I have been able to acquaint myself with it. The enemy, considering that the Page was unsafe in Quantico Creek, have recently taken her to Chopawamsic Creek, just below the Shipping Point, where she can lay farther up and be better protected. From the statement of a deserter, it appears that they have anticipated an attack upon her and have thrown up an earthwork and planted a field battery to resist such, should it be attempted, and that quite a large body of men have been stationed in her immediate vicinity. The Shipping Point batteries are on the right, and I have every reason to know that they are very vigilant in these. The steamers own guns must com- mand the approach. The creek being perhaps 150 yards wide where I suppose the Page lays, could be well protected by musketry on each bank. There is also a small island at the entrance, or just within the entrance of the creek. From the above, and placed as she is in the immediate vicinity of a large force, it appears to me that the chances would be very much against success, and therefore that it would be impracticable to attempt it. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Captain J. A. DAHLGREN, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. U. S. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 9, 1861. SIR: We, the men composing Lieutenant FoxhallA. Parkers howitzer brigade at the Washington navy yard, respectfully ask of you to give Lieutenant Parker permission to take us down the river and cut out the pirate George Page, now lying in the mouth of Quantico Creek Page 7 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 7 We have every confidence in our ability to do so, and also in Lieu- tenant Parkers skill and bravery, and are willing in a body to follow wherever he leads. Hoping that your honor will take the foregoing humble request into due consideration, meanwhile we anxiously await a favorable reply, We are, respectfully, your obedient servants, PETER THOMPSON, HENRY A. DAVIS, W. ALLEN, EDWARD DIRHAM, Captains of the Guns for their Respective Crews. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding reported infringement of blockade. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 16, 1861. SIR: Captain Shore, of the steamer Chamberlin, called at the Depart- ment to-day and made the following verbal statement, viz: I was coming up the river on Wednesday last; a flag was raised on Piney Point light-house, and I went in. Mrs. Marshall, the keeper of the light, wished me to report that five or six boat loads of rebels crossed over every night into Virginia with provisions, etc.; that there was $10,000 worth of goods, ammunition, clothing, etc., in the woods just above the light-house to be carried over. Men came to her every day and asked her if any of the United States cutters were about, and told her she had better keep away as they intended to destroy the light-house. The rebels have a small steamer in the creek just above Ragged Point which they brought from Fredericksburg. Captain Shore also states that a small boat with provisions crossed over at Ragged Point at 12 oclock, m. Two of our vessels were lying at Blakistone Island and could have seen this boat. I am, respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant R. H. WYMAN, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding Confederate batteries at Boyds Hole and Lower Shipping Point, Va. ~. ~. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac Flotilla, December 18, 1861. SIR: I have the honor to report that last evening the enemy opened a battery of two heavy guns at Boyds Hole, the field battery which I before reported having been withdrawn. Their range extends well inside the Maryland shore. I have also reason to believe that another battery is in course of construction in the vicinity of Hoars [Hoes 0?] house, across the neck of land which forms the Chopawamsie Creek. A reconnoissance has been made, but no response to our fire. The enemy have placed an additional gun on the southern face of the Lower Shipping Point battery, which has exploded a shell over Sandy Point Page 8 $ OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOOK. a distance of 2~ miles. From what information I can gather I am led to believe that the greater part (if not all) of the goods, etc., carried into Virginia are brought from Baltimore to the Patuxent. I am, sir, very respectfully, yoar obedient servant, IR. II. WYMAN, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding reported location of the enemys force. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, December 20, 1861. SIR: The country in the neighborhood of Piney Point and Point Lookout has been overhauled, and as yet nothing of a suspicious nature found. There are rumors there that the enemy are collecting quite a force at Currioman Bay and its brauches, intending to cross in boats. Though I look upon this as mere talk, there will be a lookout kept on them. The enemys cavalry scout frequently as far as Pohick Creek, and show themselves on Hallowing Point, but have not lately been on the farms below. I have been informed by slaves that a gunning sloop has been in the habit of passing around into the Occoquan, and selling whisky, etc. Her name I could not ascertain, but the names of the men in her were said to be Thomas Hewitt and Pearson. Should she slip by me, information respecting her might be obtained by those on board the Perry, off Alexandria. From the same source, Jam informed that the enemys force does not extend on this side of the Occoquan River, but that they have built a fort a short distance below the Occoquan Mills (this I have seen myself some little distance from the road), and also that they are still working at fortifications. Their firing from the batteries is constantly kept up, but no damage done as yet. Last night a schooner was becalmed for nearly two hours off the Shipping Point batteries, and the damage she sustained amounted to two holes through her mainsail. I this moment see by a newspaper that the man Hewitt has been arrested by the Perry. I applied a short time since for an assistant surgeon for the lower portion of the flotilla; he is much needed. At Blakistone Island it was found necessary to place one of the Jacob Bells crew under charge of a physician on shore, there being no surgeon below on the Freeborn, and neither surgeon nor medicine below Mathias Point. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of th~ Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding transportation of supplies for his command. U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac Flotilla, December 20, 1861. SIR: I would respectfully suggest to the Department that the pro- visions, clothing, etc., for the use of the vessels of this flotilla statione Page 9 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 9 below the batteries opposite Budds Ferry be sent from Baltimore and that one of the schooners (without armament), now stationed below, be anchored at Liverpool Point, and used as a store vessel. This arrangement, Ijudge, will not only be more economical as regards transportation, but most convenient, and will save the risk of running these stores past the rebel batteries, as also that of the communication by water being cut off by the freezing of the river above. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the detention of a party of ladies and children. U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac Flotilla, December 20, 1861. SIR: I have the lionor to inform you that three ladies and two children were taken on the night of the 18th iu the middle of the river (below Mathias Point) on their way to Virginia. They assert that they were on their way to join their husbands in Virginia. Their names are as follows: Mrs. Ellery and child, Mrs. Cantatore, Mrs. E. Piper and child. Their baggage has been searched and no letters, papers, or con- traband of war fonnd in it. I enclose also their certificate to that effect, as also to nothing being concealed about their persons. They are at present detained on board the schooner Cobb at Piney Point, where they will remain until I receive your instructions regarding theni. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Certificate. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Piney Point, December 19, 1861. We, the undersigned, do give our most solemn word and honor that nothing contained in our trunks, boxes, or parcels contain any letters, papers, or articles intended for the use or comfort of the enemy, and nothing contraband of war, or about our persons. S. M. CANTATORE, JULIA ELLERY, E. PIPER, Ladies. Witnesses: E. P. MUORBA, Lieutenant, Commanding. A. J. FRANK, Acting Master, U. S. Navy Page 10 10 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla to release ladies and children detained on board U. S. schooner Howell Cobb. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 21, 1861. SIR: Your communication of the 20th instant, reporting the arrest of certain ladies and children while attempting to pass into Virginia, has been received. You will release the parties, cautioning them that if they are again taken in a like attempt they will be held and treated as prisoners. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Lieutenant It. II. WYMAN, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, comman(ling Potomac Flotilla~, relative to protection of building at Freestone Point, Va., enclosing letter from Samuel Cropley, esq. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 21, 1861. SIR: I enclose herewith a copy of a communication from Mr. Samuel Cropley, of Georgetown, D. C., relative to a building at Freestone Point containing his fishing outfit and asking the Departments protection of the same, which it is desired you will do, so far as the flotilla is concerned. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Lieutenant iR. II. WYMAN, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure.] GEORGETOWN, D. C., December 17, 1861. DEAR SIR: My attention was called to the published report of Lieu- tenant Commanding It. II. Wyman, of the Potomac Flotilla, who sent Lieutenant McCrea ashore at the Freestone Point fishing landing, who set fire to some buildings on said fishing shore. I immediately went down the river in sight of the landing, to ascer- tain whether all the buildings were burned. I fonnd one still standing, and that fortunately contains my entire outfit of seine, rope, etc., of a value to me of some thousands of dollars. My object in troubling you with this note is to ask the favor of you to shield with your pro- tection that building, which is filled, as stated, with my seine, rope, barrels, salt vats, etc. I, for some years, have been the lessee of the Freestone Point fish- ery; am a resident and merchant of this town. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S~ML CROPLEY. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington City Page 11 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 11 Letter from Caleb S. Wright, esq., to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, offering free transportation to troops for the capture of a battery at Hallowing Point. WILLARDS HOTEL, Washington City, December 25, 1861. DEAR SIR: I am the owner of steamers Volunteer and Reindeer, running daily from foot of Eleventh street to Rum Point on Matta- woman Creek, but am in dread constantly of a rebel battery now or about to be erected at ilallowell [Hallowing] Point, 6 or 8 miles below Mount Vernon, they having possession there, as rebel cavalry and soldiers are seen there daily. It is the most dangerous point on the river, and would be a complete blockade of the river, as vessels draw- ing 6 feet are obliged to pass within a quarter of a mile of the shore. If the Government desires to land 1,000 men there to protect it, 1 will transport them from here or General Hookers division for nothing, immediately, if they require it. CALEB S. WRIGHT. Mr. Fox. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, requesting the presence of an armed launch in Chicomuxen Creek. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, December 27, 1861. SIR: To guard against the boats belonging to the enemy coming out of the creeks near their batteries and attacking any of our schooners which may be passing within their reach (as I have no steamer suit- able to place in the Chicomuxen Creek), I would respectfully request that I may be furnished from the navy yard a light launch, with gun, with gun crew, and competent officer, aild a rough board honse with stove for their accommodation. My plan would be to place the boat and crew permanently in Chicomuxen Creek, out of range of the enemys guns, moving her out at night to protect our vessels in passing. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IR. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Endorsement.] DECEMBER 28. There will be no difficulty in providing the launch, gun, and little house, but there are so few seamen left in the yard that a pressing emergency can hardly be met to man a gun. Very respectfully, J. A. DAHLGREN. Report of Captain Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Pensacola, suggesting means for the safe passage of that vessel by the river batteries. U. S. [STEAM] SLOOP PENSACOLA, Qfl~ Alexandria, Va., December 28, 1861. SIR: I am of the opinion that it will be necessary for me to have two large scows loaded with wet hay to lash alongside of my ship to pro- tect her machinery going down the river from the batteries. I a Page 12 12 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. informed that the Army have suitable scows. If we could procure the loan of two of them, of about 75 or 100 feet in length each, they would be of great service to us for that purpose. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY W. MoRRIs, Ccptain. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Letter from the Assistant Secretary of the Navy to the Quartermaster- General of the Army, requesting the use of two scows. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 28, 1861. I have to request that you will loan the Department two scows belonging to your Department, and a quantity of hay to fill them for the purpose of lashing the scows to the steamer Pensacola to protect her machinery in passing the batteries on the Potomac. I am, respectfully, etc., G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary. Brigadier-General M. C. MEIGS. Order of Lieutenant MeOrca, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, to Acting Masters Mate Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Dana, to proceed to Nanijemoy for assistance. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 28,1861. SIR: You will get underway, if possible, and go as near Kanjemoy shores as possible, and proceed to said shores and inform the officer commanding the guard that the dispatches must be sent immediately to Commander Magaw. I am on shore and need assistance. Should you pass any steamer on the way, you will send her back to Captain Magaw. If they protest, tell them a military necessity demands it. if they still persist, make her go. Yours, E. P. MCCREA. Masters Mate W. T. STREET, Commanding Dana. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, relative to the chasing of the steamer Chamberlin by a steamer below Ragged Point, Potomac River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 28, 1861. SIR: I enclose herewith for your information a letter * addressed to the Department b~T Captain E. Shore, of the Chamberlin, in which he states he was chased by a steamer that came out from the Virginia shore below Ragged Point on the Potomac. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant H. H. WYMAN, Commanding U. S. Potomac Flotilla. Not found Page 13 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 13 Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting enclosure regarding steamer George Page. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 28, 1861. Sin: I herewith transmit for your information a copy of a letter from Assistant Adjutant-General S. Williams and also a copy of its enclosure from Brigadier-General Hooker, in relation to affairs on the Potomac. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant H. H. WYMAN, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure.1 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, December 27, 1861. SIR: By direction of the commanding general, I have the honor to enclose an extract from a letter received from Brigadier-General Hooker, comma~ndin~~ our forces on the lower Potomac, which is respect- fully furnished for the information of the honorable Secretary of the Navy. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WiLLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Captain G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. [Subenclosure.] HEADQUARTERS HOOKERS DIVISION, Camp Baker [Md.], December 22, 1861. GENERAL: * * * I have nothing to apprehend in the passage of stores from one to the other from the batteries. From the steamer Page 1 have more. She has removed to her old anchorage in the Quantico, and on any dark night may slip out and pick up some of our boats. I shall, of course, take every precaution in my power to prevent it, but if some of the vessels of the flotilla would take a proper position above and below the mouth of the Quantico, and near it (which they can do with impunity any night when the moon is not shining), they might cut off her retreat. It has been reported to me since dark that a schooner has been damaged to-day in ascending the river, opposite to Boyds Hole. If so, it must have been from the field battery on that shore. Vessels should arrange to pass along here at night. When last seen [line cut off] not be true. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Brigadier-General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington, D. C. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, responding to letters received from the Department. U. S. S. HARRIET LANE, Potomac Flotilla, December 31, 1861. SiR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of letters from the Department of the 27th and 28th instant, enclosing an extract of a lette Page 14 14 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. from Brigadier-General Hooker and a letter from Captain Shore, of steamer Chamberlin. With regard to the former I would state that the rebel steamer Page is closely watched by the vessels of the flotilla, that every protection has beeii given to army transports, and in some instances their schooners have been towed by the batteries, and those vessels without arms furnished with them for the trip. The schooner Mary Willis, loaded with wood, was struck below the water line on the 22d, by shot from the field battery at Boyds Hole, and was run on the flats. I made no report of it to the Department, being in hopes of suc- ceeding in getting her afloat. This vessel was hailed and warned not to attempt to pass the battery by dayby the scouts or pickets at Nanjemoybut paid no attention to the warning. Captain [Win. S.] McClure, of the Indiana pickets in that vicinity, states that when the captain of this vessel came on shore he said he wondered why they (the enemy) should fire at him; he was no damned Yankee. The report of Captain Shore I am inclined to discredit entirely (but have instituted an investigation), and believe that he was running away from one of our steamers, as about that time the Jacob Bell visited Ragged Point and the Lower Machodoc, where she could discover noth- ing, or it might have been the Murray with two launches in tow, which his fears transformed into the rebel steamer. The Herbert and Murray have been sent below on their way out of the river. The letters of dis- charge will be dated byLieutenant-Commander McCrea on his delivering them to them below, and I will inform the Department as soon as I receive notice of their date of leaving. I find that the only safe ice harbor below White House is Mattawoman Creek. Vessels drawing 9 feet can go far enough np that creek to be perfectly secure from drift ice or the possibility of being carried away by the ice. 1 am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant & cretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding tugs hired by the Department. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, January 2, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report to the Department that the hired steam tugs Herbert and Murray were discharged and left the Potomac River on the 30th of December. I would call the attention of the Department to Mr. Charles Bentrick, the master of the Herbert, hav- ing been appointed and still holding the appointment of masters mate. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 15 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 15 Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of attack by U~ S. steamers Anacostia and Yankee, upon Cockpit Point battery. POTOMAC FLOIILLA, January 3, 1862. Sin: Judging that the battery on Cockpit Point could be enfiladed, and wishing to obtain a more complete knowledge of the extent of the enemys works in that vicinity, I directed the Anacostia, Lieutenant Commanding Badger, with the Yankee, Lieutenant Commanding East- man, to stand inside Cockpit Point to the northward and throw their shells into the battery. In this they were entirely successful, their shells falling directly in the battery, those of the Anacostia being planted with the most admir- able precision; the guns on the extreme point of the battery were at once abandoned. The only guns which the enemy could at any time bring to bear were an 80-pounder rifle gun and a rifle 12-pounder. Four shots were fired from these as the vessels I)assed inside of the battery, one of which, from the 80-pounder rifle, passed through the port bow of the Yankee and lodged in a berth on the starboard side in the forecastle, doing no damage except very slightly wounding one of the crew (Alexander Mitchell, ordinary seaman) by a piece of lead from the shell being thrown inboard over the rail. On the enemy fir- Pig their fourth shot, a 9-inch shell from the Anacostia and a 6-inch shell from the Yankee were exploded under their gun; almost simultaneously with its flash their gun was dismounted and they abandoned the bat- tery. After firing a few more shell the vessels retired. On Cockpit Point the enemy have now four or five guns in battery. Their heavy gun has been remounted and moved to the northern face of the battery to prevent another attempt at flanking them. A breast- work for another battery has been thrown up, which will entirely pro- tect them to the northward. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Captain ]Jiforris, U. S. Navy, com- manding U. S. S. Pensacola, to proceed with that vessel to Hampton Roads. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 9, 1862. SIR: As soon as the U. S. steam sloop Pensacola is in all respects ready, proceed with her to Hampton Roads and there await farther instructions from the Department. It is important that every precaution should be used to pass the rebel batteries on the Potomac with safety to the vessel and those under your command. The Department relies upon your skill and upon such means as your judgment may dictate to accomplish this object. lam, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Captain LI. XV. Monnis, Commanding U. S. S. Pensacola, off Alexandria, Twa Page 16 16 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the capture of three men. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, January [11], 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report to the Department that I have sent to the navy yard three gentlemen, who were taken on the night of the 9th instant by Lieutenant Commanding McCrea, in attempting to cross from Maryland into Virginia below Mathias Point. Their names are as follows: Rev. Bennet Smedes, of Raleigh, N. C.; John E. Rea, of Bal- timore, Md.; George M. Gormly, of Norfolk, Va. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 11, 1862. Send a vessel to ascertain if the Pensacola has passed the batteries, or any of them. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commander J. A. DAHLGREN, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Captain Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Pensacola, regarding measures for the safe passage of the batteries on the Poto- mac. Unofficial.] U. S. [STEAM] SLOOP PENSACOLA, At Anchor off White House Point, January 11, 18622 p. m. SIR: I left Alexandria at daylight this morning, as the pilots did not wish to run her down at night on account of the tortuous channel, and anchored here at nearly low water. It will be necessary for us to pass over the shoal of Mattawoman mud at high water, I shall leave this anchorage to.night at 1 a. in., so as to pass the rebel batteries at moon down. I have communicated with Lieutenant Commanding R. II. Wyman, of the Potomac Flotilla, and made arrangements with him to anchor some of his vessls at the buoys on the Mattawoman mud, with colored lights up, to enable me to steer by, and also for others to attack the batteries whilst I am passing them, to distract their attention from me. Very respectfully, your obedient servant HENRY W. MORRIS, Captain. G. V. Fox, Esq., Assistant Secretary, Navy Department, Washington, D. C. Report of commandant navy yard, Washington, regarding the safety of U. S. S. Pensacola. NAVY YARD, WASHINGON, January 12, 1862. SIR: The steamer which I sent down to the flotilla has returned with news that the Pensacola passed the batteries this morning about 5:3 Page 17 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 17 oclock. Only two guns were fired from Shipping Point and about twenty shot from the lower batteries. Captain Wyman, with his usual forethought, had his steamers at hand to indicate the channel and was prepared to open his guns if needed. The Pensacola, however, made no return, and it is believed passed without injury. I have dispatched another steamer for information, and have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. A. DAIILGREN. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] U. S. [STEAM] SLOOP PENSACOLA, At Anchor off Licerjpool Point, Sunday Morning, January 12, 18G26 a. m. We passed the batteries at Cockpit and Shipping points at 5:45 a. in. without being hit. They fired abont fifteen shells at us from the two. Nearly all of them passed over the ship. Their firing was very good, but aimed too high. HENRY W. MORRIS, Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Captain. Secretary of the Navy. Report of Captain Morris, U~ S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Pensacola regarding the safe passage of batteries on Cockpit and Shipping points. U. S. [STEAM] SLOOP PENSACOLA, At Anchor off Liverpool Point, January 12, 18G25 :45 a. m. DEAR SIR: We got abreast of Cockpit Point about 4:30 a. in. That battery fired three shells; the first passed directly over our smoke- stack, and only a little above it. None of their shot or shell struck us. In passing the batteries of Shipping Point they fired about fifteen shot and shells at us, chiefly shells; most of them passed over the ship in a line from the starboard quarter to the after part of the fore rig- ging, and little above the tops. None of our rigging was injured or cut away. We did not retnrn their fire at all, as we did not wish to indicate our position. I have written a short telegraph to the Secretary of the Navy and given it to Lieutenant Commanding Magaw, who will send it to General Hooker to transmit. Please send this letter to him immediately. Very respectfully, HENRY W. MORRIS, Commander J. A. DAHLGREN, Captain. Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. N W RYOL 5 Page 18 18 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY lARD [WASHINGTON, D. C.], January 12, 1861 [1862]. Tile Pensacola passed Lower Sandy Point, below Mathias Point, at 10 a. m. all right. F. A. PARKER. Hon. G. WELLES. Report of Captain Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Pensacola, regarding the passage of that vessel down the Potomac. U. S. [STEAivi] SLOOP PENSACOLA, Past Kettle Bottom Shoals, January 12, 1862. SIR: After passing below Cockpit and Shipping Point batteries, which I did at a quarter before 5 oclock this morning, safely, without being struck by the enemys shot, I anchored at Liverpool Point to wait for daylight to proceed on. I availed myself of this opportunity to write you a short telegram, which I gave to Lieutenant Commanding Magaw, of the flotilla, to send on shore to Colonel [Charles K.] Graham, of tile Army, to forward, informing you that we had passed the enemys batteries and that we had been fired at fifteen or twenty times, most of their shot passing directly over ns, but none hitting us. We were very much favored by the weather, the sky being slightly obscured by the clouds so that after the moon had set, which was at 4:30 a. in., the darkness made us indis- tinct to them, whilst it was not too dark for us to see tile shores of the river and enable us to steer by them and to keep in the channel. I did not return the enemys fire, as it would only have exposed my position to them without enabling me to do them any damage, on account of the darkness of the night. I am very much indebted to Lieutenant Commanding P. II. Wyman for the efficient assistance rendered by him to me, in anchoring some of his vessels at certain points with lights up, which enabled me to steer down the channel with safety, and accompanying me past the batteries with his whole flotilla, ready to open his fire on them if I did mine. I beg leave to recommend to the favorable notice of the Department my two pilots, Mr. Walters and Mr. Price, for their skillful pilotage of this large ship at night, drawing as she does 19 feet. I hope that a suitable recompense will be made to them. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY W. MORRIS, Captain. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary ~f the Nary, Washington, D. C. Report of Captain Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Pensacola, of the safe arrival of that vessel at Hampton Roads. U. S. [STEAM] SLOOP PENSACOLA, At Anchor, Hampton Roaf s, January 14, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report my arrival at this anchorage yester- day afternoon at 3 oclock Page 19 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 19 I regret that I had not this report written in time to send it by the pilots who left the ship to return to Washington very shortly after we anchored. I presume the Department heard of our arrival here through them. I communicated to the Department our having safely passed the batteries, which dispatch I sent up to the navy yard by the steam tug Pusey. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY W. MORRIS, Captain. Lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding U. S. S. Harriet Lane. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 18, 1862. SIR: You will please have the Harriet Lane brought to the Washing- ton navy yard within a week from this time, for the purpose of being repaired and fitted up for the service on which she is to be engaged in the Gulf [of Mexico]. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. R. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding U. S. Potomac Flotilla. Report ~f Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, suggesting additions to the force under his command. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, February 1, 1862. SIR: There was at Annapolis, belonging to the Naval Academy, a cutter fitted with an engine and propeller, and also a convenient light- draft schooner, Rainbow. Are these still there and not in use? They would be particularly serviceable in this flotilla more especially the steam cutter. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the examination of schooner Dorothy Haynes. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, February 6, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to enclose the report of the schooner Dorothy Haynes, which succeeded in entering Aquia Creek. She was thoroughly overhauled, and her clearance papers, etc., found to be correct. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 11. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 20 20 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosure.] Report of achooiter Dorothy Haynes, of Baltimore. JANUARY 26, 1862. Copy of boarding book.J. T. Gilley, master; number of enrollment, 153; number of license, {90; date of license, December 27, 1861 ton- nage, 60 tons; date of clearance, January 17, 1862. Shippers, E. M. Hosley, Baltimore; William Rogers, Baltimore; Robert Turner, Balti- more. Cousignees, S. W. Clankins, Washington, D. C.; Q. F. Crabbles & Co., Washington, D. C. Cargo, whisky, oil, hay, as per manifest. E. L. ROBBINS, Boarding Officer. [Endorsement.] It will be seen by the above that the cousignecs were ~I1 all proba- bility fictitious, and this should have been seen at the custom-house. R. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant. [Telegram.] WASHINGTON NAVY YARn, February 5, 186~29 a. m. The Pinola passed the batteries about 3 this morning. Was not fired at. She went no faster than 8 knots, with 80 revolutions without sail. Water smooth. JOHN A. DAHEGREN, Commandant. NAVY DEPARTMENT. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, proposing operations against the enemys batteries. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, February 10, 1862. SIR: From more recent observation I have reason to believe that the reports of the force of the enemy and their position in the neigh- borhood of Aquia and Potomac creeks, as reported by me to the De- partment a few days since, are correct; also that the center and strong- est force of their right wing on the river is at and around Dumfries, which is by road 12 miles from the crossing of the road over Potomac - Creek and 17 miles to Fookes Landing. Between Fookes Landing and Boyds Hole troops can be landed and with but little opposition. Can the embarkation and movements of the troops be conducted in such manner as to conceal their intention from the enemy l I judge that the batteries at Potomac Creek could be taken and the bridge over that crcek destroyed before any mate- rial reenforcement could arrive from or about Dumfries. On the road from Belle Plain the distance is 7 miles to Fredericksburg. From where the railroad crosses Potomac Creek it is about 5 miles to Fred- ericksburg; on these roads (as I before stated) are reported to be four or five regiments. I have no information as to what numbers of troops may be concentrated at Fredericksburg. The greatest difficulty I can foresee in a movement of this kind is the concealing the movement from the enemy while embarking in steamers and boats, with their artillery, in the vicinity of Liverpool, Smiths, and Maryland points, bnt I believe it can be done, and the flotilla will clear the way for the landing and protect the shore 1~ to 2 miles back Page 21 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 21 Again, a feint of landing at Boyds Hole might be made, and the troops of the enemy being drawn from Dumfries to protect this place, tlie great body of our troops having been previously on the march to Glymont wharf (where such steamers as the Baltimore, etc., can go), could be lauded at Freestone Point, thus dividing the right wing of their army, with the option of marching on 0cc oquan and forming a junction with the left wing of our army, or on Dumfries. Landing can easily be effected above the Occoquan, but that would merely reenforce our left wing and leave the right of the enemy unbroken. I enclose a rough tracing* of these points, and offer these reniarks merely iu connection with the points most favorably situated for landing. At General Hookers request I shall have an interview with him on Wednesday next. I am, sir, vcry respectfully, your obedient servant, T~. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to J. B. Harris, esq., regarding the granting ojpermits to Jisking vessels. NAVY DEPARTMENT, February 11, 1862. [Sin:] In answer to yours of the 8th instant the Department is will- ing to grant permits to boats for fishing purposes upon the same con- ditions as they are granted to other vessels on the Potomac, viz, upon the execution of a bond for each boat of from $500 to $1,000. If you find it necessary to land on the Virginia shore you must get your per- mission from the Army for that purpose. This Department can not grant that permission. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES. J. B. HARRIS, Piscataway, Md. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla of protection e. tended to loyal citizens. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, February 15, 1862. SIR: I have forwarded Mr. Philip Otterback, jr., and his wife to Washington from their farm in Virginia, he having claimed our pro- tection. Mr. Otterback states that both himself and wife are Union people, as also both their families; that he has remained as long as possible on his mothers farm in order to protect their property; that he has not aided or assisted the rebels in any manner. Now the rebels threateii his life, having burned some of his outbuildings a few nights since. I have directed Lieutenant Commanding Eastman to go to the Department with Mr. Otterback and to report to yourseff. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. H. WYMAN, Hon. G. V. Fox, Lieutenant, Commanding. Assistant Secretary of the Navy. * Not found Page 22 22 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, B. C.], February 15, 18G2. The Harriet Lane passed the batteries about 2 p. in.; also the yard steamer, with ordnance stores for Hatteras. J. A. DAHLGREN. NAVY DEPARTMENT. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, U. S. S. Jacob Bell, of the passage of that vessel, with U. S. S. Harriet Lane, by the batteries on the Potomac River. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, February 15, 1862. SIR: Agreeably to your instruction, I proceeded up to Washington navy yard for repairs. Our new boiler not being ready, it was i~eces- sary to have the old one repaired. After blowing off the boiler, it was found requisite to patch it in five places, which was finished on Tuesday, the 11th instant, and at 4 p. m. had steam on and started down, arriv- ing at the upper division at 7 p. in., where I lay until this morning, the night being too light to insure us in passing with safety. While lying below Indian Head the U. S. S. Harriet Lane came down. I received orders from Lieutenant Commanding Wyman to follow her when she attempted to run by the batteries, keeping about 600 yards astern. At 10 a. in., during a heavy snowstorm from N. E., the Harriet Lane got underway, followed by the Jacob Bell and Baltimore. We passed the upper battery without being fired upon, but on the approach of the Lane to Shipping Point battery the enemy opened fire. I immediately replied with tile 68-pounder, with 10-second shell, also with the 32-pounder forward. A number of shell fell around us, but none hit- ting the Bell; the Harriet Lane, however, was not so fortunate. She was hit on the port wheelhouse, forcing out the iron rim of the wheel, causing her to stop her engine. Signaling for us to come alongside, we took her in tow to Liverpool Point, where we arrived at 11:30a.m. I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Executive Officer. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. McCREA, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, B. C.], February 17, 1862. The Baltimore went down all right; the [Harriet] Lane got a shot in her wheelhouse, but not mnch damage. Her iron wheel was bent; she was towed into Liverpool Point by the [Jacob] Bell, but is right now. R. H. WYMAN. NAVY DEPARTMENT. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, B. C.], February 17, 1862. The Pinola left yesterday at 2 p. in. J. A. DAHLGREN. NAVY DEPARTMENT Page 23 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 23 [Telegram.] NAVY YAIiD [WASHINGTON, D. 0.1, February 18, 1862. The Pinola is reported to have passed the batteries last night. J. A. DAHLGREN. NAVY DEPARTMENT. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding protection extended to three men. POTOMAC FLoTILLA, February 23, 1862. Sin: Three laboring men, who reside in the vicinity of ilallowing Point, in Virginia, came off to-day, and claimed an asylum, which I have given them. They represent that they are hunted by a body of Texan Rangers on account of their having given information which led to the capture of two men by our pickets a few days since. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] POTOMAC FLOTILLA, i1~arch 9, 1R624 p. m. Sin: The Cockpit Point and Shipping Point batteries are abandoned. They have beeii shelled for an hour without a reply from them. Large fires at Shippiig Point and Evansport make it apparent that they are destroying their material there. The Page, also, I believe to have been burned and blown up. Many explosions have occurred. Very respectfully, H. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. llon.~SECnETARY NAVY. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the abandonment by Coi~federates of batteries on Cockpit and Ship- ping points. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 9, 18624 p. m. Sin: The information which I forwarded to you by telegraph is, I consider, confirmed. The Cockpit and Shipping Point batteries have beeii abandoned; they have been shelled for an hour without reply. The enemy have set fire to everything at Shipping Point, and frequent explosions give evidence of the destruction of that ammunition. The fires and explosions extend some distance back between Cockpit and Shipping points. The Page I believe to have been set fire to and blown up. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 24 24 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] WASHINGTON NAVY YARD, March 9, 1862. (Received 9 p. in.) The proposed measures for guarding the Potomac are in progress. I am informed from the Quartermasters Department that eight canal boats loaded with stone were about to leave, and eight more would leave (luring the night. I have sent in structions to the commandant of flotilla as to their disposition and use at the three places where the channel has the least depth of water. The only 11-inch gun and 50-pounder which I have will be landed on Giesboro Point before midnight. The platforms will be laid and the gnus in position to-morrow morning. The mortars will also be placed. Shot is being cast for all of them, and a full supply will be ready to-morrow. The Secretary of War has visited the defensive points and given me authority to draw on any o~ the regiments or forts for men, guns, or munitions. He has also authorized me to take for the while the l)rivate steamers plying on the river for present use of the Government, and I have sent round for them. If there should be any use at all for a battery on Giesboro there ought to be twenty of the heaviest cannon; shot of 170 pounds at 50 or 100 yards will be apt to do something. A smart steamer has been dis- patched to the mouth of the Potomac to observe it. JOHN A. DAHLGREN, Commandant. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, #S~ecretary Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, I). C.], ]llarch 10, 1862. The following communication has been received from Lieutenant Commanding McCrea, of the lower flotilla: POINT LooKOUT, Marc1~ 109:20 a. m. Prom appearances the Merrimack is off the point. I send Master [A. B.] Pierson with this communication to the Department. F. A. PARKER, Lieutenant. Hon. G. WELLES. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, D. C.], March 10, 1862. Nothing was done after receiving your note of 10 oclock last night. The placing of guns in position was also suspended on learning that the Merrimack had retired before the Monitor, and that the telegraph from Fort Monroe was in action. J. A. DAHLGREN. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy Page 25 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 25 Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the occupation of Confederate batteries by force from United States vessels. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, 2lliarch 11, 1862. SIR: Having received information on the 9th instant that the enemy were abandoning the line of the Potomac, after making a reconnoissance, I directed the steamer Anacostia, Lieutenant Commanding Badger, to shell the Cockpit battery, and found it deserted. Small parties were then landed from the Yankee and Anacostia, our flag was hoisted over the works, and the guns (which were not spiked) spiked. On the 10th instant, with the assistance of a regiment from General Hookers divi- sion, the guns at Cockpit were thrown over the embankment and the gnu back of Evansport disabled and some of the ammnnition removed. Immediately on the enemys discovering that we were aware of their evacuation, they fired everything at the Evansport batteries. Many of their magazines were blown np. The landing parties saved some by removing the slow matches and trains of powder. The gun carriages were fired and rendered useless. The guns were loaded for bursting and exploded as they became heated, dismounting many; but those which have bnrst appear to me to have burst some time since. Very large quantities of shot and shell have been found in the magazines. The enemy appears to have been entirely deficient in means of trans- portation. Many tents, camp fixtures, and clothes were left. These batteries are of a much more formidable nature than I had sup- posed, and great labor has been expended in their construction. The country around is lined with rifle pits and breastworks thrown up (but no guns mounted) on a hill back commanding the rear of the Shipping Point batteries. The guns are of the best description, mostly United States guns; one an English rifle gun. From the direction on the boxes of ammunition I find that the Evansport batteries were com- manded by Frederick Chatard, formerly a commander in the U. S. Navy. The steamer Page was blown up and entirely destroyed. I aul, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 11. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. 1?eport of Lientenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding rumored operations of the enemy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 13, 1862. SIR: I have obtained information through contrabands that the enemy are fortifying Fredericksburg and are building gunboats on the Itappahannock nuder the superintendence of Mr. Matthew F. Maury. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. II. IYXTYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lou. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 26 26 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regardtng proposed operations of the enemy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 14, 1862. SIR: I have received information through our spies, landed the night before last, that there are about forty regiments of the enemy at Fred- ericksburg; that they are still in force at Aquia, but making all prep- arations to leave. The enemy expect to make a determined stand at Fredericksburg. They are working fast on their gunboats. The St. Nicholas and Virginia are moving from Lowrys Point to Fredericks- burg; there is a battery at the former place. Mr. Henry [H.] Lewis has charge of the battery and boats. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD [WASHINGTON, D. C.], March 15, 1862. (Received 10:20 a. in.) I have no certain information of the St. Lawrence, but believe from what I have heard that she and the Brandywine were to be off the Potomac. J. A. DAHLGREN. Hon. GIDEON NXELLES, Secretary Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Joseph Bryan, regarding steamer George Page. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 17, 1862. [SIR:] In compliance with your request of this date you are hereby authorized to proceed to Quantico Creek, with such force as may be necessary, and bring away what may be left of the machinery of the steamer George Page. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES. JOSEPH BRYAN, Washington. [TelegramReceived March 18, 1862.] POTOMAC FLOTILLA5 p. m. SIR: From two deserters from Aquia Creek I learn that there are there about 1,800 men, Second North Carolina, Third North Carolina, and Third Arkansas; at Brookes Station, 800, all infantry; near the town of Aquia, 700 cavalry; at Stafford Court.House, three regiments con Page 27 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 27 taming 2,000 infantry, and also seven pieces of artillery, 24-ponnder rifles. Abont 3 miles above Aquia are ten pieces [of] artillery, called Walkers Battery. At Fredericksburg are known to be 20,000 troops; more are coming in fast. The encampment at Potomac Creek has gone [to] Fredericksburg. The railroad at Aquia Creek destroyed for about 2 miles; more is destroyed each day; the buildings and railroad track at Aquia Creek are now burning. The first division of the corps darm6e has 1)assed safely below Boyds Hole, under convoy of three of this flotilla, to its destination. Very respectfully, yours, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. SECRETARY OF NAVY. Report ~f Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding vessels employed in convoy duty. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 19, 1862. Sin: 1171 compliance with your verbal order I have sent three of the steamers of this flotilla to convoy the army transports to Hampton Roads and report for further orders to-Flag-Officer L. M. Goldsborough. The vessels sent are the Anacostia, Freeborn, and Island Belle. The boilers of two of the most efficient steamers here now are so much worn that they may give out at any moment. New boilers for these vessels are making. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. ATavy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding blocking the channel of the river. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 19, 1862. SIR: Doubts have arisen in my mind regarding the practicability of blocking the channel at the Kettle Bottoms. I have had it sounded, as also the channel in the narrowest point at Nanjemoy, both of which are wider and have much more water than the chart gives (which throughout is incorrect). I now think that Smiths Point and Matta- woman Muds are the best points for blocking, and that the frigates had better come up to Smiths Point amid the barges which are at present at Kettle Bottoms removed to that point. Very respectfully, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Page 28 28 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] SEMINARY, March 20, 1862. (Received at Washington 12 in.) I request that instructions may be given to Commodore Goldsbor- ough to send back at once to the Potomac Wymans vessels that con- veyed lleiiitzelman. They will be needed to convoy another large detachment. G. B. MCCLELLAN, Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Major-General. & cretary Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. regarding U. ~. frigate Brandywine. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 21, 1862. SIR: On the last information which I received from below, the Bran- dywine had not arrived. I shall inform the Department immediately on her arrival. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Hon. G. V. Fox, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Assistant & cretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] POTOMAC FLOT1LLA, via Budds Ferry, March 22 [1862.] SIR: The Anacostia has arrived, but with her machinery in such a condition as will require seven hours for repairs. The Freeborn and [Island] Belle not in yet. The Brandywine not yet arrived. The troops of the eiiemy at Kinsale, Yeocomico [River], are said to have gone to Fredericksburg. There were there about 400. Respectfully, yours, R. II. WYMAN, flon. U. V. Fox. Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding convoy duty. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 28, 1862. SIR: In consequence of the necessity of repairs on the engines of the steamers Anacostia and Freeborn, after their return from Hampton Roads, I dispatched the Satellite, Cwur de Lion, and Island Belle to act as convoy to the second division of transports, with orders to return immediately on the performance of their service. The Anacostia is now in good order. The Freeborn ran aground at Hampton Roads, whic Page 29 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 29 has strained her much and twisted her steam pipes. I fear that it may be found necessary to send her to the navy yard for repairs. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report ~f Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding condition of U. S. S. Yankee. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 24, 1862. SIR: The main guide of the engine of the steamer Yankee having broken she is rendered entirely useless. It will require at least six days to repair her, and place the shaft in line. Having no accoininoda- tions for myself in any other vessel, I shall be obliged to retain her here until all the (livisions of the Army (that are moving by the river) have gone, or until I can procure a vessel from the navy yard. I would respectfully request information from the Department as to whether the vessels going as convoy to the divisions of transports are to remain at Hampton Roads after convoying the last division. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IR. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the obstructing of the river. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 25, 1862. SIR: Yours of the 24th instant is received. The Brandywine will not come into the river. Nets and hawsers stretched across the nar- rowest part of the channel will foul the Merrimacks propeller, and you are authorized to prepare such for obstructing her progress. The ves- sels of the flotilla sent by you to Hampton Roads are ordered to return at once, though by and by the heaviest armed may be required to cooperate at that point. Due notice will be given to you. I am, respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES. It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of information received regarding rnovement8 of the enemy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 24, 1862. SIR: I send to the navy yard two men who came oW from Virginia this evening claiming protection. They are named William Talbot and William Maddox, and were employed to take care of the farm of Mrs Page 30 30 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Otterback (of Washington) at Quantico Creek, until the farm was destroyed by the rebels. The man Talbot seems very intelligent. He states that it was not known until Friday by the rebels that they were to fall back. They commenced falling back on Saturday, arriving in iDuinfries that night. We discovered it on Sunday. He was in Fred- ericksburg the Tuesday before, and it was only known there on that day that the whole brie of the enemy was to fall back from Manassas and the Potomac. It was told him by a black man, who was in Freder- icksburg a week ago, that the enemy had fallen back to 7 miles beyond Fredericksburg. He speaks of great dissatisfaction existing among their troops, and of their pressing every one into service. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, forwarding statements of captured men. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 25, 1862. SIR: I forward to the navy yard two men, natives of Baltimore, who have very recently made their escape from Fredericksburg. One has not been in military service; the other is a deserter from the First Maryland Regiment. I enclose herewith their statements as questioned by myself. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Statement of Charles H. Johnson (butcher). Was born in Baltimore; have been living in Virginia two years; left Fredericksburg on Monday, the 24th instant, at 9 oclock. The troops there are encamped 14~ miles beyond Fredericksburg; there are nineteen or twenty thousand; do not know that there are any besides those who were withdrawn from the Potomac. I believe that they intend to make a stand between Fredericksburg and Richmond. Fredericksburg is not fortified. I saw three guns which were taken from Aquia Creek lying on the cars as I came through the depot at Fredericksburg. Have seen the steamers St. Nicholas and Virginia; they have no guns; they are cimlisting men at Richmond for the Navy. Men were detailed about six weeks since to work on gunboats on the Rappahannock. The cargo of a schooner from Baltimore, consisting of cloth and powder, was taken overland to Fredericksburg last Saturday; this schooner probably entered some of the inlets between the Potoma~c and Happahannock rivers. Statement of John S. League. Was born in Baltimore; have been in Virginia ten, months; have been in the armyFirst Maryland Regiment; was stationed at Manassas; this regiment contains about 750 men, and is now at Gordonsyille. Lef Page 31 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 31 Manassas the day after it was evacuated; preparations were making to evacuate Manassas about a week before it was abandoned: the troops at Maiiassas were in a tolerably good condition. I arrived from Freder- icksburg after the troops came in from the river; believe that the whole line was abandoned at the same time; the troops are 1~ miles beyond Fredericksburg, about 20,000. Fredericksburg is not fortified; there are no guns on steamers Virginia and St. Nicholas; the bridges across to Fredericksburg are standing. Came along the railroad track to Aquia Creek; saw no troops, but a few pickets at Aquia Creek who fired at us. The railroad track was not torn up. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding existence of Union sentiment in Virginia. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 29, 1862. SIR: There is a strong Union feeling in the country about the Lower Macliodoc, Va. The white flag is flying from every house and the people say that they are willing to take the oath of allegiance, if the Govern- mentwill protect them afterwards. Three thousand men left thatvicinity about ten days since for Fredericksburg. These are the men who have been stationed along the river from Machodoc to th~ southward. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] BIJDDS FERRY, March 31, 1862. (Received 12 in.) SIR: The frigate St. Lawrence was at St. Georges Island at 5 p. m. yesterday. Very respectfully, IR. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy. [Telegram.] POTOMAC FLOTILLA, March 31, 1862. SIR: I have information from Fredericksburg to Saturday last. The camp is about 3 miles beyond Fredericksburg; about thirty regiments; five have gone toward Richmond; no guns at Fredericksburg; those taken from Aquia Creek have been moved on to Richmond. General Holmes has left; many people are moving out [of] Fredericksburg. Railroad is complete to Brookes Station; from there to Aquia Creek i Page 32 32 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. is torn up. Two companies of cavalry are at Stafford Court-House; scouts are on the road. One artillery company detained in Fredericksburg. Respectfully, R. II. WYMAN, Lion. G. V. Fox, Commanding Flotilla. Assistant Secretary. Report of Captain Purviance, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. frigate St. Lawrence, of arrival of that vessel in Potomac River. U. S. FRIGATE ST. LAWRENCE, Ofl~ Ragged Point, April 1, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the arrival of this ship in Potomac River, having beeii windbound for three days. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Y. Pul~v]IANcE, Captain. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. Report of Captain Purviance, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. frigate St. Lawrence, of arrival of that vessel at Kettle Bottom Shoals, Potomac River. U. S. FRIGATE ST. LAWRENCE, Kettle Bottom Shoals, April 2, 1362. SIR: I have the honor to report the arrival of this ship at this place, and await further orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. V. P4URVIANCE, Captain. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, forwarding information received from rfugees. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, April 2, 1862. SIR: I have forwarded to the navy yard, Washington, four refugees from VirginiaMr. Jacob Gardy, Mr. George Sadler, Mr. Albert R. Swisher, Mr. Richard C. Fedderman. These men represent that those of their vicinity who are implicated in the rebellion are moving south; some to the other side of the Rap- pahannock River, others to the more southern States; that there is iiiuch suffering among the poorer classes and a general discontent. From hearsay, that there are two forts on the Itappahannock, one at Lowrys Point mounting eight guns, another about 5 miles below Fred. ericksburg at the ship yard, where they have been for the last seve Page 33 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPARANNOCK. 33 weeks making preparations to build gunboats, but they think with lit- tle success. The militia of Richmond County was ordered to report at Fredericksburg; they heard that the bridges over the iRappahannock were miiied, ready to be blown up, if necessary. Mr. Fedderman has a letter signed by Mr. Benjamin refusing him permission to pass our lines. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, li. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] POTOMAC FLOTILLA, April 3, 1862. I have information saying that Fort Lowry, at Lowrys Point on the Happahannock, has been abandoned and there are now no fortifications until just below the city of Fredericksburg. Respectfully, R. II. WYMAN, Commanding Flotilla. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding refugees. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, April 6, 1862. SIR: I forward to the navy yard, Washington, three refugees from YirginiaCarolus W. Rollins, a resident of King George County; James W. Keys, a resident of Prince William County, and a deserter from the rebel Army at Fredericksburg, March 17, and James Treakle, a resident of Alexandria, a pilot on the Potomac River, who left Alex- andria at the commencement of the rebellion to join his sons in King George County. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant 3licCrea, U. S. Navy, commaimding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, of expedition up the Rappahannock River. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Rappahannock River, April 15, 1862. Sm: Immediately upon the receipt of your telegram,* by order of the President I proceeded at once to carry out the instructions therein contained. * Not found. NWRVoL5 Page 34 34 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The expedition was composed of the Jacob Bell, Satellite, Island Belle, Resolute, Reliance, and Piedmont ese. The W~jandank, the vessel J depended on so much, being double ended and 9-inch guns, broke her crank on her trip from the navy yard, so I was compelled to leave without her. We entered the Ilappahannock at 8:30 p. in., and anchored for the night at Carters Creek, about 11:20 p. m. I was anxious to obtain a pilot for the river, so sent on shore a party of men and surrounded several houses, hopi iig to secure one, but failed; fortunately, Acting Master Street, of this vessel, knew the river some- what, so, with his assistance and the charts, I concluded to go up as far as Tappahannock at least, if not to Fredericksburg. From two brothers named Lewis, found on St. Georges Island, I learned the following: They left Fredericksburg two weeks ago. At that time there were 30,000 troops back about 2 or ~3 miles from Fred- ericksburg, but they were constantly moving southward; did not know how many now. Fort Lowry was the only fort on the river; had S guns mounted; the St. Nicholas, Virginia, and Eureka were in the river; no guns on them (I have since learned the St. Nicholas had 2); they were drawing tim- ber to build gunboats; they intended to sink a stone boat in the chan- nel about Fort Lowry about four weeks ago; 40 Virginia volunteers were just 1)elow Fredericksburg doing scout picket duty; as many as 300 refugees are in the woods trying to get across to the Potomac, from thence to Maryland, to escape drafting. (I would here state that I have been al)plied to by several Unionists on the Virginia shore of the Potomac for protection, and [to] allow vessels to load their stock and bring their families away.) At midnight I moved up to Urbana; at daylight we attempted to land, but were met by a volley of musketry from the enemy concealed in a rifle pit, perforating the boat, but injuring no one. I spared the town, notwithstanding, seeing women and children hastening to and fro, but shelled the rifle pits. I then moved on to the eastern wharf (C), but saw nothing. At meridian passed Fort Lowry, a circular fort mounting 5 guns, but have heard they had 8 or 111 heavy rifled gun. On the hill, back a bout 500 yards, new wooden barracks for 5,000 men had just been finished, and in rear of the fort, on the beach, quarters for 3,000 more. I landed three boats crews and destroyed all; found some muskets, blankets, and medicines. They evi- dently had left on our approach, as the hospital beds were left in a state as just vacated. I went up then to Tappahannock. I fired a gun and hoisted a white flag, but seeing no boats for the authorities to come off in I went ashore with a flag of truce myself. I found only negroes on the beach, but sent for the authorities. Three white men came down. I told them 1 would not damage their town, and to satisfy the women and aged to that effect, but that I should take possession of the town till I left. I hoisted the American flag from the most prominent public building, the schoolhouse. I learned from these gentlemen, disloyal but not secessionists, that there were about 30,000 troops at Fredericksburg, but Dr. Gordon said about 20,000, and that they were constantly moving; one regiment was 5 miles this side of Fredericksburg; General Longstreet commanded the brigade at Fort Lowry; no troops within 30 miles, save the cavalry pickets from the company at Urbana; no gunboats building at Fred- ericksburg, they believed. I heard the troops from Fort Lowry moved away one week ago Page 35 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 0~ 5 ~ -1 ~Th .-~ Cr0 - 0 0 0 0~j~ ? I; 35 0 Page 36 36 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I could get no pilot or I should have gone up farther. At this point the channel is 2 fathoms (leep, crooked, and varies, and I could not devote the time to survey and pass np. I heard from a negro that 5 schooners were sunk in the channel 7 miles this side of Fredericksburg. There are no obstructions of any kind in the channel so far. Off Fort Lowry the light-ship is sunk, though her masts are visible still, a perfect mark in daytime. Tappahannock is 50 miles from Richmond and the same from Fredericksburg by land, the latter 75 miles by water. Troops can be landed here with perfect ease, but pilots must be had. I laid off Tappahannock all night, hoping I might secure something passing down; at daylight I was rewarded by capturing a sloop from Fredericksburg with shad, oysters, and letters containing valuable information. I enclose them for your perusal.# I immediately got underway and stood down the river. I had decided not to go to Fredericksburg from the nature of the river. My vessels could have been sunk by rocks and stones from the banks, which are at least 200 feet high, and I was advised not to go by a man at Tappa- hannock, who said he gave me the intelligence out of gratitude for sparing the town, as they thought I would destroy it, as I had the barracks, etc., at Fort Lowry. The men from the captured sloop gave way in their little boat as soon as they saw us and landed on the starboard side of the river. They had too good a start for us to catch them. I captured coming down the river two schooners from out a creek (Totouskey Creek). At Union Wharf I saw a lot of men. I made a hurried landing and captured two Confederates belonging to Captain Jefferss company and ilardins; they were to go into camp to-morrow; they have been im- pressed and would stand by the Union if they dared, so they say; being in uniform, I retained them as prisoners. At the store on the said wharf I took all contraband articles, salt, coffee, etc., scuttled the whisky and rum. The feeling is Union if they could be protected. At Heathsville there are 90 cavalry without arms or accouterments and are to go into camp to-morrow at 3 p. in.; two-thirds of them are impressed Unionists and wish to be captured. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant, Commanding Expedition. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Wa8hington, D. C. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Acting ]Iiliaster Studley, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Young Rover. NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 17, 18G2. SIR: You will report with your vessel to Lieutenant Commanding R. II. Wyman for duty in the Potomac Flotilla under his command. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Acting Master IRA B. STUDLEY, Commanding Young Rover, off York Rivers Va. Irrelevant matter Page 37 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 37 [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, D. C., April 17, 1862. The Ca~ur de Lion left liere last evening with orders to be off Aquia Creek this morning. J. A. DAHLGREN. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding expedition to Fredericksburg, Va., transmitting list of captures. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, April 20, 1862. SIR: I arrived at Fredericksburg, s/a., on Sunday, at 10 a. in., hav- ing met with no resistance on the river and no hostile act, with excep- tion of a few shots fired by pickets. I found that Fredericksburg had been surrendered to the land forces of the United States on the day before; the rebels having destroyed the bridges, burned the two steamers Virginia and St. Nicholas and about forty schooners belonging to private individuals, as also large quantities of corn and grain. There is no obstruction on the river Rappahannock to within about 7 miles of Fredericksburg; there several schooners loaded with stone are sunk across the channel. 011 sounding, I found a channel to admit of the passage of two of the lightest steamers, with which I went on to the city. On a further examination of this channel I find that most of the vessels of this flotilla could be taken past the bulkhead on high water. There are two breastworks for guns thrown up on the right bank of the river, one at Lowrys Point, the other just above the bulkhead about 7 miles from the city. At present there are no guns mounted on them. I have given those with whom I have communicated to understand that they will not be molested while pursuing their peaceful vocations. They seem to have anticipated harsh treatment, and I think that this expedition will conduce to a better feeling on their part. Those who have been prominent in rebellion are said to have left for Richmond. I enclose a list of captures made, full lists of which I have transmit- ted to the judge of the district, in Washington. One steamer named the Roundout I have retained (subject to the approval of the Depart- ment) in this river. She is almost worthless, but may be made useful for getting wood, water, etc., for the flotilla. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosnre.] FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RIVPPAHNNNOCK, April 20, 1862. SIR: The following is a list of the vessels captured by this flotilla on the Rappahannock River and its creeks: Eureka, steamer, propeller, Georgetown.Cargo, 30 cotton warp, 2 bags cotton, 2 sides leather, 9 plows, 24 shears Page 38 38 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Schooner Monterey, Tappali annock.Sails, etc., complete; no cargo. Schooner Lookout, of Ba1tin~ore.Sails, rigging, etc., complete; cargo, corn for Confederate G-overnment. Schooner Sarah Ann, of New I3erne.Sails, etc., complete; cargo, corn; abandoned. Schooner Sydney Jones, of Baltimore.Sails, furniture, etc., complete; no cargo; abandoned. Sloop Reindeer, of Tappahannock.Sails, etc., complete; no cargo; abandoned. Schooner Falcon, Tappahannock.Sails, etc., cornplete; no cargo; abandoned. Schooner Sea Flower.Abandoned; secreted in a creek and masts cut away to prevent detection; cargo, 4 barrels bone dust, 60 pounds shoe thread, 5,400 pounds copperas, 40 pounds shoe thread (colored), 600 pounds saltpeter, 176 gallons castor oil, 20 pounds indigo, S gross essence coffee, 672 pounds carbonate soda, 4 dozen cans solidified lye, 500 pounds alum, 2 small compasses, 2 large cases of assorted dry goods, clothes, hosiery, and notions. Steamer Roundout, side wheel.No cargo. No papers were found in any of the above-mentioned vessels. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLE8, Secretary of the Nary. Further report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Nar3i, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding expedition up the Rappahannock River to Fred- ericksburg. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND ItAPPAIIANNOCK, April 22, 1862. SIR: Your telegram of the 2hst has just been received. I yesterday forwarded my report to the Navy Department. The day before yester- day 1 was at Fredericksburg. The river is perfectly clear of obstruc- tions excepting about 7 miles below the city, where some schooners loaded with stone are sunk. There is a channel left, however, through which vessels can pass. There are but few of the enemys pickets on the river; a few shots were fired at us by them; the people seemed disposed to remain quiet. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding means for preventing Confederate communication. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, April 23, 1862. SIR: I have ascertained that a constant communication has been caFried on with the rebels (both in freight, passengers, and mails) for some months, by vessels from Baltimore running into the Great Wicom- ico, which lies between the Potomac and the Itappahannock rivers Page 39 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 39 The cargoes were landed there and reshipped at Deep Creek, on the iRappahannock. There is another river, the Piankatank, below the Happahannock, which I have no doubt has been nsed for the same pur- pose; but the force at my command has been so occupied that I have not as yet been able to search the river. To guard all these points properly I would require two or three more light steamers. Those which I have are constantly breaking dowii and requiring repairs at times when I can least spare them. The auxiliary propeller Young Borer is a vessel well adapted to block- ading on the coast, aud a lighter draft steamer would be more serviceable in the rivers. The stone barges on the Potomac require the constant attention of two of the vessels of this flotilla to keep them from sinking at their anchors. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Order of the Secretary of the Nary to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding U. S. S. Young Borer. NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 25, 1862. SIR: You will give directions to the U. S. bark Young Rover, recently transferred to your commaiid, to proceed to Key West and report to Flag-Officer Win. W. MeKean, or the senior commanding officer present, for duty iu the Eastern Gulf Blockading squadron. Shonid it be necessary to- have any repairs put on her before leaving for the Gulf; you will send her to Washingtou for that purpose. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant It. H. WYMAN, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Potomac River. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding U. S. S. Young Borer. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND ItAPPAHANNOUK, April 28, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that in obedience to your order of the 25th instant (received to-day), I have directed the U. S. S. Young Rover, to report at Key West to Flag-Officer W. W. MeKean, or senior officer present. She reqnires no repairs and will sail immediately on being filled with water. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Itt. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary Page 40 40 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the capture of smugglers. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, April 28, 1862. SIR: I forward to the charge of the commandant of the navy yard, Washington, five Prisoners, takei~ in the act of smuggling goods from Accomac to the western shore of Virginia. Their names are as follows: W. B. Chum, Accomac County; John R. Bowles, Amherst County, Va.; Isaac Smith, Ac comae County; Revel Evans, Accomac County; John W. Burton, Acc omac County. The amount of goods is but small and will be sent to the district marshal. I am making a thorough examination of the Piankatank River. Yes- terday our boats crew was fired upon quite sharply from the shore in the vicinity, but no one was injured. The communications of the rebels being now cut off by way of the Peninsula, I judge it will be attempted by way of the Piankatank and Mobjack Bay. The former I shall blockade eft~ctively. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. 11. WYMAN, Lieutenant Com~ lion. GIDEON WELLES, , nanding Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting letters regarding escaped negroes. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, May 2,1862. SIR: I enclose herewith several letters from persons in Lancaster County, Va., regarding negroes who have escaped and been taken on board the U. S. S. Young Rover. I am. sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant Comma Hon. GIDEON WELLES, , nding Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure8.] LANCASTER COUNTY, VA., April 28, 1862. DEAR SIR: I take the privilege of uddressing to you this letter, the object of which is to recover my property that has been taken from inc without any provocation on my part. Sir, on the 7th of April, 1862, seven of my slaves left me and went on board the ship Young Rover, then lying in the mouth of Rappahannock River, and have since been sent to Fortress Monroe. Sir, I am a private and peaceable citizen. I have never borne arms against the United States, nor have I any child or near friend who has. In the commencement of these troubles I voted for the Union candidate and labored hard for that cause, and made many enemies by it. The 2d day of April we had a meeting and passed a resolution (unanimous) that we would offer no military defense to the Northern Army. With these considerations, I appeal to you to have my property returned. I am a farmer, and have been in the business of wood cutting for five years, and have a large contract with Oliver II. Booth, of New York, at this time. I have 1,200 cords of wood on hand all .ready for market, but must lose it if my servants are not returned. I have seen the captain of the Rover, Captain Joh Page 41 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 41 B. Studnall [Ira B. Studley]. He is a gentleman of line feelings, and 1 think if this property is returned he is calculated to make many friends to the Union. He is perfectly in possession of my views. The seiwants I Lost, the names are as follows: Charlotte, woman, 23 years old. Isaac, young man, 21 years old. Dennis, 18 years old. Emma, 16 years old. Lanrinda, 15 years old. Margaret, 13 years old. Charles, a blind boy, of 23 years. A woman I hired from A olfin Ian orphan] child and two small chil- drenIsabella, Minnie, Mosesand a man I hired from Mrs. Cundip named Mack Kelly. Sir, your compliments [compliance] will greatly oblige, Your obedient servant, B. B. MUKENNEY. Commodore WYMAN. P. 8.I think my negroes should be returned, because they were taken after the order was issued to take no more, and at the time there was miot a man in Lancaster in arms against the Federal Army. I hope, sir, if you can, you will return my negroes; if you cant, please forward this to the proper authorities. B. B. MOKENNEY. APRIL 30, 1862. SIR: On the morning of the 7th of April, 1862, five of my negroes deserted me and went on board of the steamer Young Rover, then lying at the mouth of the ilappahannock River. rfhe said steamer was com- manded by Captain Studnall [Studley]. The names and ages of the negroes are as follows: Lucinda, aged 45; Thomas, aged 25; Jesse, 24; Davy, 20; Edward, 17. 1 understood from several officers who were stationed aboard the blockading steamer that they, two days after the reception of the above- mentioned negroes, received orders from Washington not to take any more slaves aboard. This order had probably heemi issued three or four days previous to its reception and had become a law at the very moment it was issued, subsequent to which time my negroes absconded. The said negroes have never been engaged in any work of public defense since the war began. If the said negroes are to be delivered up you will greatly oblige me by information of the time when and place where. Your compliance with the above will greatly oblige, Yours, very respectfully, GEORGE G. LEE, White Stone, Lancaster County, Va. Commodore WYMAN, Of the Steamer Yankee, Lying at the Mouth of the Rappahannock River. LANCASTER COUNTY, VA., May 1, 1862. DEAR SIR: The object of my letter is informing you that on the 7th of April, 1862, my servant man, named George, 20 years old, left and went off in company with Mr. McKenneys negroes on board of the blockading steamer Young Roger, tlieii lying in the Rappahannock River. Sir, I am an old man of 59 years. This servant has neve Page 42 42 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. been engaged in any work or any public works for any army service. Any assistance you can give me in returning my property will be grate- fully received. Please forward to proper authorities. Respectfully, WILLIAM DOGGETT. Commander WYMAN. LANCASTER COUNTY, STATE OF ViRGINIA, May 1, 1862. DEAR SIR: The object of this communication is to respectfully ask your aid in recovering a servant woman, Mary, who left me on the night of the 6th of April and went on board of the steamer Young Rover on the morning of the 7th of April, which vessel was, at the time specified, lying in the mouth of the Rappahannock River. The said woman is tall and quite dark color, and is about 35 years of age. I learn the said vessel was at the time commanded by Captain Studnall [Studley]. I am a widow in small circumstances, and as the said Mary was the only woman I had, her loss to me is very great. I ask that you will be kind enough to forward this to the proper Department of the United States, and all aid you afford in this matter will be thankfully received and duly appreciated. Respectfully, LOUISA DUNTON. Commander WYMAN. GLEBE FARM, LANCASTER COUNTY, VA~, May 1, 1862. SIR: On the 7th of April, 1862, three of my negro men, viz, Dick, William, and Daniel, left my farm, and I have every reason to believe that they weiit oii board of blockading steamer Young Rover, Captain I. B. Studnall [Studley], then lying at the mouth of the Rappahannock River. These servants have never been engaged in working on any public works or fortifications of any kind. I am a farmer and peaceable citizen, and have never borne arms against any government, and am now 52 years of age. I think it but just and right that these servants should be returned, and have every reason to believe that the Govern- ment at Washington has no intention of depriving me of my property. I am very sorry you could not call upon me according to promise. Was my health not so feeble I would do myself the honor of visiting you on board of your steamer. As this can not be, I hope you will be so kind as to use your influence for the restoration of my property. 1 remain, dear sir, your obedient servant, JAMES W. GRESHAM. Commodore WYMAN. MAY 1, 1862. SIR: On the morning of the 7th of April, 1862, four of my servants deserted me and went on board of the steamer Young Rover, then lying at the mouth of the Rappahannock River. The said steamer was com- manded by Captain Studnall [Studley]. The names and ages of the servants are as follows: Louisa, very light color, age 18 years. Winney, tawny color, age 18 years. Maria, dark color, age 16 years. Winneys child, infant, 4 months Page 43 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 43 I understood from several officers who were stationed aboard the blockading steamer, that they, two days after the reception of the above- mentioned servants, received orders from Washington not to take any more slaves aboard. This order had probably been issued three or four days previous to its reception, and had become a law at the very moment it was issued, subsequent to which time my servants absconded. The said servants had miever been engaged in any work of public defense since the war began. If the said servants are to be deliiTered up you will greatly oblige me by information of the time when and place where. Your compliance with the above will greatly oblige, Yours, very respectfully, GRIFFIN WILLIAMS, Lancaster County, Va. Commodore WYMAN, Of the Steamer Yankee, Lying at the Mouth of the Rappahannoek River. WHITE STONE, LANCASTER COUNTY, STATE OF VIRGINIA, ilfay 1, 1862. DEAR SIR: The object of this communication is to respectfully ask your aid in recovering five servants who left inc on the night of the 6th of April, 1862, and went on board of tIme steamer Young Rover on the morning of the 7th April, 1862, which vessel was, at the time specified, lying at the mouth of the Rappahannock River. The names and ages of the said servants are as follows: Robert Layton, dark tawny color, 38 years old. Henry Robinson, dark tawny color, 35 years old. Lettie, the wife of Henry Robinson, light tawny color, 26 years old. William Candy Lettie, child, between 3 and 4 years. Mary Jane Lettie, child, between 2 and 3 years. I learn that the said steamer was at the time commanded by Captain Studnall [Studley]. Sir, I can assure you that none of the above servants have ever been engaged in any work of public defense since the war began. Sir, I ask that you will be kind enough to forward this communication to the proper Department of the United States, and all aid you can afford in this matter will be thankfrilly received and duly appreciated. Yours, very respectfully, A. M. SANDERS. Commander WYMAN. RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER, Near Carters Creek, May 2, 1862. SIR: On the 7th of April, two of my servants, a woman and boy, ran away, amid were taken on board the U. S. S. Young Rover the the mouth of the Rappahannock. , mm lying off These servants, Roxy and Isaac, were takemi to Fortress Monroe and there landed. It is my earnest request that they should be returned to me, as they have not been employed for any military purpose against the Govern- ment of the United States. Very respectfully, etc., MARIETTA E. LELAN. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy Page 44 44 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPATIANNOCK. Request of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla for the U. S. S. Stepping Stones. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, May 6,1862. SIR: I respectfully request that the steamer Stepping Stones may be returned to my command if her services are no longer necessary on the Poqnosiu River. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. 0-. V. Fox, Assistant Secrctary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting reports regarding reconnoissance of Mobjack Bay and Piankatank River. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND HAPPAHANNOCK, May 8, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to enclose herewith the reports of Lieutenant Commanding Badger, steamer Anacostia, and of Lieutenant Command- ing IVI agaw, steamer Freeborn, of their examination of Mobjack Bay and the Piankatank River. I have since learned that the light-boat taken from Windmill Point [Happahannock] Spit is anchored inside Gwynns Island, and have some clew to where the lighting apparatus is. These I shall make every effort to obtain. I have found it neces- sary to take and destroy all vessels and boats of any size on the Hap- pahannock, as they were being used to cross men from the Peninsula, and I am convinced that there is hardly a man with Union sentiments on the southern bank of the river. It is now minored among the negroes that the enemy intend placing batteries on the iRappahannock, and the points selected have been pointed out by them, but as yet no step has been taken toward it. Should they do so I think it will be merely for the purpose of protecting a crossing nearly opposite the Brisco [Bristoel] mines, from which point a field battery could be brought to command entirely their position (selected by report). The river is so narrow above Tappahanuock as to render it almost impossi- ble for vessels to act against even a field battery. At present there are but a few pickets on the southern bank of the river, and they generally keep well ont of range. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. fl. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Flotilla, Potomac and Rappahannock, May 2, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that in obedience to your order 1 have examined Mobjack Bay and the creeks and rivers connected therewith, as far as practicable without a pilot. I took the Anacostia a short distance up the Severn, Ware, and North rivers. In each we saw some schooners on shore without sails, having the appearance of being some time out of use. Some distance up the Severn there is a schooner in good order, moored close under the bank Page 45 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 45 no doubt well protected by the pickets of the enemy, as it is but a short distance from Gloucester Point. To penetrate this river, we should be supplied with a pilot, and at least three steamers; no doubt we should have to contend with field artillery. I am of the opinion that a small steamer should be stationed in Mob jack Bay~ as there is nothing to prevent access to it for contraband trade or for other purposes. The steamer in the bay might also occa- sionally take a cruise up as far as the month of the Piankatank at night. I observe that vessels frequently anchor in the Chesapeake Bay near the Virginia shore, and boats we know cross from the eastern to the western shore. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, etc., 0. C. BADGER, Lieutenant, Commanding. Lieutenant Commanding R. H. WYMAN, Commanding FtotiUa, Potomac and Rappahannoek. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Piankatank, Va., April 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your order, I have examined the Piankatank River and found (about 20 miles up) three schooners scuttled. On our return with the Island Belle and l)rize steamer Eureka, we were attacked by a battery of light artillery from a bluff and thicket; no damage was done us by the enemy of any importance. Our rifles prevented them from loading and discharging rapidly. Proceeding about two-thirds of a mile below the point of attack we stopped and shelled out the party, firing seven shells into the woods without a response. Upon reaching Fishing Bay I found the Freeborn, Masters Mate Brice in charge, had been attacked during my absence, and had shelled the enemy until they ceased firing. The Island Belle received two rifle shell and some musket balls; the Eureka received three rifles, one through her pilot house, one through her smokestack, and one on her after deck, cutting away the steering gear. I am pleased to say that Acting Master Harris, Masters Mate Newton, and Third Assistant Engineer Magaw behaved with great coolness and gallantry. The pilot of the Freeborn, Mr. Harden, and Peter Nash, seaman, were slightly wounded, but both are now on duty. The Eureka has been repaired; in fact, her efficiency was not impaired for more than fifteen minutes. Yours, faithfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieuteuant, Commanding. Commodore WYMAN, Commanding Flotilla. [Subeuclosure.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Piankatank River, April 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the attack of the enemy upon this vessel during your absence up the Piankatank River on a reconnoissance of 29th instant: While lying at anchor in the same position you left me in the morn- ing, the enemy opened fire upon us from a masked battery of three or more guns (rifled), situated on an elevated position of 500 or 600 yards distant Page 46 46 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I immediately got underway and returned their fire with such accu- racy as to silence their guns. Respectfully submitted. J. J. BEICE, [Acting] Masters Mate. Lieutenant SAMUEL MAo-Aw, Commanding Freeborn. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding protection for loyal citizens of Virginia. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, May 15, 18G2. Siu: The citizens of Mathews County, Va., whom I have met state that two-thirds of the population of that county are loyal. Out of 500 militia from that county drafted to the rebel ranks, all but eighteen have deserted and returned to their homes. They have claimed through myself the protection of the Government. I have answered them that on giving up their arms, and affording me the assistance which may be in their power in obtaining possession of any Government property which may be in that county, I will give them all the protection in my power against the rebels, and have made arrangements to that effect, in case there should be any attempt made by the rebels to capture those who have deserted. I have been informed that a letter was received in Mathews County from a person in Magruders division, dated from Hanover Court-House, stating that the division was on the march to Gordonsville. I have received applications from Lancaster, Richmond, and West- moreland counties, Va., requesting permission to ship their grain and receive in return many of the necessities of life, of which they are now entirely destitute. I have directed that their applications be addressed in form to the Governmentone to the honorable Secretary of State I herewith enclose. In the above-named counties (as also in Northumberland County) there is a large amount of grain; in some instances the crops of the last two years. At present there are no rebels in arms in the north- ern peninsula. There has been occasional crossing from the northern banks of the Rappahannock, to prevent which I have removed their boats. I ascertain that during the last winter goods have been taken into Virginia, entering the Great Wicomico, and thence transl)orted to Carters wharf, below the Brisco [Bristoel] mines bya Mr. J. Hiland, of and in business in Baltimore, and that he had a store, or depot, about 7 miles back of the Brisco [Bristoc ~i] mines. Some of his goods brought over for reshipment, I have already secured. There are about 200 deserters from the rebel ranks on the north- ern peninsula. From intercepted letters I ascertain that there are 1,000 troops at Bowling Green, and that the cavalry, which have been doing picket duty on the southern bank of the Rappahannock, have removed to that station. Many of the owners of plantations on the southermi bank of the Rap- pahannock have directed their overseers to have all their youngest slaves in readiness to move south. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla lion. GIDEON WELLES, ~ecrotary of the Navy Page 47 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 47 Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding dispatch of United States vessels to Hampton Roads. FLOTILLA, RAPPAHANNOCK AND POTOMAC, May 22, 1862. Sin: In obedience to your order of the 19th instant I have dispatched the steamers Stepping Stones, Island Belle, and Occur de Lion to Jiamp- ton Roads, with orders to report to Flag:Officer Goldsborough. The steamer Jacob Bell will proceed immediately on her repairs being cOml)leted. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of reconnoissance in East River, Va., by steamers Island Belle and Stepping Stones. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, May 22, 1862. Sin: On examination of East River by the steamers Island Belle and Stepping Stones, I find that the light-boat secreted there has been burned. A party was sent to Mathews Court-House, where the light- Pig apparatus was reported to be; it was not there. Nine Springfield muskets were taken from the armory at the Court-House, and twenty- three have been delivered up by deserters from the rebels. Consider- able numbers of deserters from the rebel Army are crossing the Rappa- hannock to their homes in Richmond and Lancaster counties; but as yet none have been detected. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Letter from the Secretary of War to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, regarding the Presidents order relative to gunboats in the Rappahannock River. WAR DEPARTMENT, May 24, 1862. DEAR Sin: You remember that on Sunday evening last the Presi- dent desired that a force of two or three gunboats should be sent up the Rappahannock to Fredericksburg, there to remain in cooperation with General McDowells force. Will you be so good as to inform me whether any arrangement or order has been made by your Department to the above effect? Your obedient servant, EDWIN lvi. STANTON. ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE NAVY Page 48 48 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Letter from the Assistant Secretary of the Navy to the Secretary of War, regarding the Presidents order relative to gunboats in the Rappahannock River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, May 24, 1862. SIR: I have received your note of this date i n reference to the Presi- dents order of Sunday last, relative to the gunboats on the Rappa- Ii annock. The President desired that one vessel should be sent to Fredericksburg to defend the bridge there. Captain Wyman, commanding the flotilla, was here this morning and reports one vessel stationed as directed and two or three others below plying up and down the river. Captain Wyman leaves this afternoon for the flotilla, and I beg leave to ask if any arrangement different from the above is desired l I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. Letter from the Assistant Secretary of War to the Assistant Secretary 9/ the Navy, relative to arrangement of gunboats in Rappahannock River. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., May 24, 1862. SIR: I am directed by the Secretary of War to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of this date, and to inform you, in reply, that the arrangement of the gunboats oim the Rappahannock, as therein stated, is emitirely satisfactory to this Department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding capture of muskets on Rappahannock River. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND IRAPPAHANNOCK, May 27, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to forward to the Department through the navy yard two boxes containing muskets, etc., taken on the IRappahan. nock River, from the pickets at Tappahannock, delivered np by desert- ers from the rebels on the Piankatank, and taken from Mathews Court- House armory. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 49 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 49 Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding prize sloop ]Ilonitor. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND HAPPAHANNOCK, June 7, 1862. SIR: I have forwarded to the charge of the district rnarshai the sloop Monitor, of Baltimore, taken in the act of leaving the Piankatank River by the U. S. S. Anacostia. Her papers, etc., have been forwarded to the district judge. Those entitled to a share in the capture are the officers and crew of the U. S. S. Anacostia. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, ~ Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding recapture of reflectors belonging to light-boats in Chesapeake Bay, and transmitting copy of notice issued to persons holding military arms. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND HAPPAIIANNOCK, June 11, 1862. SIR: I have sent to the navy yard at Washington the reflectors belonging to one of the light-boats on the Chesapeake, seized by the rebels, and have informed the secretary of the Lighthouse Board that they are subject to his order. These were retaken several miles inland, in Mathews County, Va., by a party from the U. S. S. Anacostia. Upon the retrogade movement of General Banks, many of the rebel deserters on the northern peninsula attempted to cross to rejoin the rebel forces, but were prevented from so doing by the previous destruc- tion or removal of all boats. From the foresight and good management of her commanding officer the steamer [Thomas] Freeborn sustained no damage when the bridges at Fredericksburg (below which she was anchored) were swept away. With my approval, the commanding officer of the steamer Anacostia issued a notice in Mathews County, Va., a copy of which I enclose. Several stands of arms have since been returned, and I hope to obtain the greater part of them in a short time. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, li. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant C Hon. GIDEON WELLES, ommanding Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] NOTICE. To all whom it may concern: It is known to the undersigned that certain persons, residents of the county of Mathews and vicinity, in the State of Virginia, have in their possession arms, placed in their hands for the purpose of opposing the forces of the United States in the lawful discharge of their duties. All such persons are hereby enjoined and directed to deliver to me, or to other officers that may be appointed hereafter for such pur- pose, all arms and military accouterments as aforesaid, on pain of being considered and treated as enemies to the United States of America. N W RVOL 5 Page 50 50 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Given under my hand, on board the U. S. S. Anacostia, near Gwynns Island, this 27th day of May, 1862. 0. 0. BADGER, Lieutenant, Commanding. Approved: li. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. The above was posted up at Mathews Court-House and at Bells Mills. Report of Lieutenant IVyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the arrest of three men for firing upon boat belonging to U. S. S. Resolute. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK, June 15, 1862. SIR: Three men who belonged to a party of Virginia militia, who tired on a boat of the steamer Resolute during the last summer, were arrested by order of the commanding officer of the U. S. S. Anacostia. As these men are now living at their homes, were but about a month serving under arms, and in this case acting under orders, I have dis- approved of the arrest until such time as it may be ordered by the Department. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, li. II. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report af Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla,~ relative to the U. S. steamers Yankee and Powell. FLOTILLA, POTOMAC AND HAPPAHANNOCK, June 30, 1862. SIR: In obe4ience to your telegraphic order of this date the U. S. steamers Yankee and Powell have proceeded with orders to report to Flag-Officer L. M. Goldsborough. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. WYMAN, Lieutenant, Commandi~~ Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant Wyman, U. S. Navy, detaching him from command of the Potomac Flotilla. NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 30, 1862. SIR: You are hereby detached from the command of the Potomac Flotilla, and you will proceed to Portsmouth, N. II., without delay, and report to Captain Pearson for the command of the U. S. steam gunboat Sonoma. I am, respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy.] Lieutenant Commanding B. H. WYMAN,ThS. Navy, Washington, P. C Page 51 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNCCK. 51 Report of Acting Masters Mate Turner, U. S. Nacy, commanding U. S. schooner Dana, of arrival at Philadelphia, Pa. U. S. SCHOONER DANA, Philadelphia, July 5, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that in accordance with orders received from it. II. Wyman, esq., commanding the Potomac and Rap- pahannock Flotilla, I have this day arrived at the navy yard, Phila- delphia, and reported to the commander in chief. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES W. TURNER, [Acting] Jlasters Mate, Commanding. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Master Pierson, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Howell Cobb, of arrival at Philadelphia, Pa. U. S. SCHOONER HOWELL COBB, Philadelphia Navy Yard, July 9, 1862. SIR: I make the following report, by orders from Lieutenant Com- manding it. II. Wyman: I have brought this vessel here and reported to the commanding officer. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. B. PIERSON, Acting Master, Commanding Schooner Cobb. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. Report of Lieutenant ilftigaw, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, of arrival at Fredericksburg, Va. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Fredericksburg, Va., July 14, 1862. SIn: I have the honor to report the arrival of the Anacostia at this port and inform you that I shall go into the Potomac for a week or ten days. If Lieutenant Commanding Gibson did not require coal, to be sent to the mouth of the Rappabannock, I beg you will consider the enclosed requisition. The Anacostia and Reliance have been burning wood. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAcAW, Lieutenant, Commanding, and Senior Officer. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, Washington, D. C. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to the senior officer Potomac Flotilla regarding suppression of intercourse between Maryland anil Virginia. NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 18, 1862. SIR: Information has been received that there is a regular night line of communication between Leonard Sound [Bretons Bay s?], Maryland Page 52 52 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. and the Virginia shore. It is said that bacon, coffee, sugar, whisky, and other articles are carried to Virginia, and corn and wheat brought back. It is not unlikely that mail communication is also carried on. This 1)roceeding should be immediately checked, and the Department directs you to adopt such measures as will accomplish the object. I am, respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES. SENIOR OFFICER POTOMAC FLOTILLA. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. ASK. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding matters pertain- ing to that command. NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 22, 1862. SIR: The Department desires you to furnish it weekly with a state: ment of the positions of the several vessels comprising the Potomac and Ilappahannock Flotilla, and also to keep it advised of your move- ments and of matters pertaining to the flotilla. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant [Commander] SAMUEL MAc~AW, U. S. Navy, Senior Officer Potomac and Rappahannock Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Licistenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Nacy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding protection for loyal citizens of Mathews County, Va. NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 22, 1862. SIR: Mr. William L. Walker, at present in Boston, a worthy and loyal man, who was driven from Gwynns Island, Virginia, by the rebels iu April, 1801, has written to the President, who has referred his letter to this Department, asking protection for his family and other Union persons in Mathews County, Va. He has information that, during an absence of three weeks from that locality of the steamer Anacostia, a marauding party of cavalry came there and carried off Union men and committed other acts of violence. He said that the lives of many Union men are depending upon the protection of our gunboats. The Depart- ment desires you to giv~ this locality attention, and to send a vessel to Milford Haven as often as it can be done without neglecting other important points, and to give all the l)rotection in your power to the loyal citizens who are liable to violence from those engaged in the rebellion. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant [Commander] SAMUEL MAGAW, Senior Officer Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant- Commander lJiliagaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Poto- mac Flotilla, of arrest of blockade runners. U. S. S. FREEBORN, July 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the arrest of three men and capture of some salt (off Corn [Horn] Harbor, Mathews County, Va.) which the Page 53 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 53 were attempting to run into Virginia; also four others on the Potomac, off Leonardtown, with a small quantity of salt. I enclose a letter addressed to his Excellency the President from a citizen of Richmond County, Va. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, etc., SAMUEL MACAW, Lieutenant- Commander and Senior Officer. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Poto- mac Flotilla, regarding protection to loyal citizens of Virginia. U. S. S. FREEBORN, July 30, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22d. I have communicated with the relatives of Mr. William L. Walker; they do not require assistance or protection. In relation to affairs in Mathews, Middlesex, and Gloucester counties, Va., I can not give any positive information as to Union men being oppressed or carried to Richmond. Partisan rangers are constantly making forays in these counties, and I can hear of no arrests being made except those of men who deserted the enemys ranks after the battle of Williamsburg. If these men remain upon their farms it is impossible to protect them with the vessels of the flotilla. If they go on to Gwynns Island they have there no means of subsistence. Mr. Walker (from your letter) implies that the Piankatank had been neglected by the flotilla; it is true the Anacostia was absent, but I do not think there has occurred an interval since April of more than four days that some vessel has not been in those waters. All the residents of that vicinity I have met are bitter, and I have not seen a Union man, except a deserter, in the three counties above mentioned. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, etc.. SAMUEL MACAW, Lieutenant- Commander and Senior Officer. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Report of commandant navy yard, Washington, regarding continued breach of blockade. NAvY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 30, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that Mr. William Bailey, a Gov- ernment pilot, brings information that, from St. Georges up to this city, boats are running at all hours of the night. He reports also that boats, laden with provisions and bound to Virginia, are continually crossing from Leonardtown and various other points along the river. He reports that he saw at least fifty of these boats in sight at one time Page 54 54 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAIIANNOCK. I am also informed that permission was given by Lieutenant Command- ing Wyman to the storekeeper to cross the river, and other persons have taken advantage of it. A regular business appears to be established and is carried on at all times from the mouth of the Potomac to Maryland Point. Should the iDepartmnent think proper to adopt measures to put a stop to the communication referred to, which is apparently increasing in consequence of the withdrawal of part of the Potomac Flotilla, I beg leave to say that the only vessel at my disposal is the Resolute, which will be ready on Monday. Acting Master Tole, who commands her, is represented to me as an active and efficient officer. I have just received the further information, which appears well grounded, that $50 were offered (or paid) to carry over a case of surgical instruments. I do not doubt that there is a regular mail communication between Baltimore and the rebel lines through the channel indicated, which may and ought to be promptly stopped. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HAn WOOD, Captain. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to commandant navy yard, Washing- ton, regarding distribution of vessels for suppression of illegal traffic. NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 31, 1862. SIR: Your letter of the 30th instant, in reference to communica- tion and traffic carried on between Maryland and Virginia, has been received. Enclosed is an order to Lieutenant Magaw to proceed to Washing. ton and report to you for the purpose of receiving instructions as to the best mode of arresting the evil referred to. There are four steamers in the flotilla, Anacostia, Thomas Freeborn, Reliance, and Resolute. The Department wishes one of them kept at Fredericksburg, one employed from that point to the mouth of the Itappahannock, and the other two employed in the Potomac, for the purpose of preventing improper communication and traffic between Maryland and Virginia shores. Craft that may be caught in this service should be destroyed, if not of sufficient value to be sent to Washington, and the parties engaged or implicated in it should be arrested and turned over to the proper authorities. You will give Lieutenant Magaw such instructions as will be most likely to accomplish the object in view. I am respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Captain A. A. ilAnwooD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington Page 55 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 55 Report ~f Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Nary, senior officer Poto- mac Flotilla, transmitting report of Acting Master Plunkett, U. S. ~Yavy, U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, of the seizure of the schooner Mail. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Coan River, Va., August [1], 18W?. SIR: I have the honor to report that I seized the schooner Mail, trad- ing in Virginia, with salt, bacon, etc., and enclose the report of Acting Master Plunkett. The master and one of the owners of the Mail I send under charge of Acting Master McGowan to Washington, and will await your orders as to the disposition of the vessel. The captain claims to be trading in Virginia under authority of the Treasury Department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander and Senior Officer. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. THOMAS FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, August 1, 1862. SIR: In obedience to your orders, I took the launch with an armed crew and proceeded up Coan River in search of a schooner reported to have violated the blockade of this river. After having pulled about 6 miles I discovered the schooner discharging her cargo at a small wliarf assisted by a number of men and teams, who were apparently using every exertion to discharge her before we reached the wharf. After firing several shots at them they desisted and retired to the woods. I then ran alongside and took the schooner in tow, and pro- ceeded down the river without any molestation. I found on board the schooner about 75 bags of salt, a large quantity of wheat and groceries, together with some whisky, and 1 box of musket balls. The crew, of whoni there are six, two of whom claim to be owners, which consists of five men and a boy, are still on board. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES L. PLTJNKETT, Acting Master and Executive Officer. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Senior Officer Potomac Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to commandant navy yard, Washing- ton, for the release of schooner Mail. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 7, 1862. SIR: Upon the request of the honorable Secretary of the Treasury, you are hereby directed to release the schooner Mail. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Captain A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C Page 56 56 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant- Commander iliLagaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding distribution of vessels. NAVY YARD, WASHJN~TON, August 3, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 22d ultimo, although not until to-day. The Anacostia remains at Fredericksburg, Va. The Reliance cruises in the iRappahannock and Piankatank. The Freeborn has been for the past week from Pianka- tank to the Lower Machodoc, in the Potomac. Resolute and Wyandank are at the yard. I have the honor to be, yours respectfully, etc., SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant. Commander and Senior Officer. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, Washington, D. C. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to commandant navy yard, WasI& ing- ton, transmitting information regarding breach of blockade in Potomac River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 5, 1862. SIR: I transmit herewith for your information a copy of a letter and enclosure received from Governor Hicks. in reference to communication carried on by the rebels across the lower Potomac. Very respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Captain A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. [Enclo8uro.] CAMBRIIX~E, [MD.], August 1, 1862. DEAR SIR: I herewith enclose a letter from J. M. Frazier, esq., whom I know well. He is a respectable, reliable Union man. Mr. Need- ham I know nothing of. That an extensive carrying of clothing, pro- visions, etc., is going on upon and across the lower Potomac I am thoroughly satisfied, as I am in the receipt of a letter from a man that I had employed for six or eight months as a spy on the Potomac, and until the Government put forces on the river. This man is entirely reliable and has been down to St. Marys County, and assures me by letter that a constant going and coming over the Potomac is kept up by Confederate persons coming, letters brought and carried, etc. I feel it my duty to advise of these things. I am, very respectfully, yours, etc., THOS. H. HICKS. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Subenclosure.] BALTIMORE, July 29, 1862. DEAR SIR: My friend George F. Needham, esq., of the old and well- established firm of Needham & Sons, has suggested to many persons here a plan for suppressing communication between the Maryland rebels and those in Virginia. This communication, as you are aware Page 57 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 57 is kept up by the rebels in the counties bordering on the Potomac. Mr. Needham suggests that the Government shall fit up a steam tug, to be placed somewhere near the month of the Potomac, to have a number of smaller boats attached to it for the purpose of sending them out on the river as a night police. He is well acquainted with the locality named, and is willing to leave a large and profitable business for the purpose of commanding the tug. He is well satisfied that he can put a stop to the communication that is daily going on and by means of which the rebels are receiving information of all our move- nients. * * Very respectfully, JOHN M. FRAZIER. Governor THOS. H. HICKS, Cambridge, Md. Report of commandant navy yard, Washington, regarding measures for suppression of communication between Maryland and Virginia. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, August 6, 1862. SIR: I have received your letter of yesterday, together with its enclosures from Governor Hicks, in relation to the communication car- ried on by vessels between the Maryland and Virginia shores. In consequence of information from another source of the same char- acter, and your recent order to me, Lieutenant Magaw left the yard furnished with all the information in my possession and such instruc- tions and appliances as seemed most likely to put a stop to the corn- munication between the enemies of the Union on both sides the river. Only one barge was sent, to avoid delay, but I have given directions for the preparation of several others to be kept in readiness for this and similar occasions and shall avail myself of every opportunity to keep the commanding officer of the flotilla iuformed and provided in every respect in my power, in the hope of effectually putting a stop to the transmission of information and supplies to the enemy. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commandant. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Letter from commandant navy yard, Washington, to the Assistant Secre- tary of the Navy, suggesting measures for a more effective blockade in the Potomac River. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, August 8, 1862. Mv DEAR SIR: I mentioned that I had provided Mr. Magaw with a boat for the preventive service upon which the flotilla is employed and intended to fit out one or two more; but the boats we have here are all too large. There should be at least two whaleboats or light cutters that could easily be run up by the vessels. It would take at least three weeks to build such boats here, and we ought to have them at once Page 58 58 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Will you not direct one 6 and one 8 oared boat to be sent here, if there are any such at Norfolk, Baltimore, or Philadelphia? To break up the unlawful communication between the Union side and rebeldom speedily and effectually will require the services of a peculiarly active and ambitious officer. From what I hear and know of young Seifridge, whose submarine experiments are not very promising, I am under the impression he would bring about good results if he could be placed in command of the flotilla. Yours, very truly, AND. A. ilARwooP. lion. GUSTAVUS V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. P. 5. Wyandanic will be ready to sail to-morrow morning; please send any instructions you may have respecting her to-day. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding disposition of vessels and seizures made. U. S. S. FREEBORN, August 10, 1862. SIR: I respectfully beg leave to submit the following statement of the position and doings of the vessels of the Potomac, etc., Flotilla, during the past week: The Anacostia remains at Fredericksburg, the Resolute is cruising on the iRappahannock, and the Freeborn and Reliance on the Potomac. Sixteen white and nine colored men have been arrested in the Potomac and turned over to the provost-marshal at Washington. Two hundred and three bushels of wheat, 10 sacks of salt, 30,000 cigars (about), 28 ounces of quinine, 12 ounces of morphine, 4 pounds of opium, and a quantity of tea, coffee, medicines, etc., which none of the prisoners would own, have been seized. These mcmi were arrested on charge of violating the blockade. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. iou. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, requesting information regarding authority of revenue steamers. U. S. S. FREEBORN, August 10, 1862. SIR: I respectfully request information in relation to the instructions of certain revenue vessels cruising in the Potomac River and Chesa- peake Bay. Several men I have arrested have said they had the per- mission of the revenue steamer Hercules to cross into Maryland and return to Virginia. I have the honor to be, yours, faithfully, SAMUEL MAO-AW, Lieutenant Commander, etc. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 59 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 59 Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant- Commander Jlfagaw, U. S. Navy, senior ogicer Potomac Flotilla, regarding permits to vessels in the Potomac River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 14, 1862. Sin: I have received your letter of the 10th instant reporting your proceedings; also your letter of the same date asking instructions in relation to certain revenue vessels cruising in the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. No vessels except such as are in the Government service will be permit- ted to pass in or out of the waters of Virginia without the special permit of the Secretary of the Treasury or of the War or Navy Departments. I am respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAG-AW, Senior Officer, etc., Potomac Flotilla, etc. [Telegram.1 NAVY YARD [WAsHINGTON, P. C.], August 11, 1862. (Received 9:40 p. in.) The Freeborn arrived yesterday with twenty-odd prisoners captured in the vicinity of Leouardtown, three large boats, a quantity of quinine, percussion caps, bags of wheat, etc. Particulars will be for- warded as soon as Lieutenant [Commander] Magaw~s report is received. He is now engaged with the provost-marshal. A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant. SECRETARY OF NAVY. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Iliagaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, of seizure of men and contraband stores. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, August 11, 1862. SIR: In obedience to your instructions of August 4, I beg to report the arrest of sixteen white and nine colored men on the Potomac River for engaging in improper communication and traffic between Maryland and Virginia. With these parties I seized a quantity of stores, or articles contraband. The prisoners have been turned over to the proper authorities. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Order of commandant navy yard, Washington, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding sup- pression of trade in the Rappahannoek River. NAVY YNRD, WASHINGTON, August 12, 1862. SIR: You are hereby directed to permit no trade up the Rappahan- nock, unless by army chartered vessels. You will also see that n Page 60 60 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. towing IS (lone by any vessel of the flotilla under your command, except ou au emergency, which must be immediately reported.. Very respectffihly, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAc~Aw, Potomac Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to commandant nary yard, Washing- ton, for the suppression of illicit trade between the York and Potomac rivers. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 14, 1862. SIR: It is represented that considerable smuggling is carried ou between the York River and the Potomac River, aud as Rear-Admiral (4oldsborongh has not at present a steamer to spare for the purpose of making an examination of the coast and streams between those rivers, you will please direct Lieutenant-Commander Magaw to do so as early as practicable. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Report of commandant nary yard, Washington, transmitting report of Lieutenant- Commander Phelps, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Cor- win, of extensive illicit trade. NAVY YARD, WASHING-TON, August 14, 1862. SIR: Herewith you will find a report of Lieutenant-Commander Thomas S. Phelps, giving further information of the illicit intercourse between the shores of Maryland and Virginia. I have made a careful memorandum of all the points c9vered by this letter, and will send the commanding officer of the flotilla such infor- mation and instructions as the case seems to require. Permit me to draw your attention to that clause in the letter in which Captain Phelps states that he has been informed that permission is obtained from the military governor of the district to touch at cer- tain creeks in Virginia, and that this permission is abnsed. I feel quite convinced that the mere love of gain induces many persons on the border to blow hot and cold in the matter of allegiance, and therefore feel anxious that the authorities who are empowered to grant passes should be made aware that not only contraband goods, but spies, have free circulation by these means. I have the honor to be. with great respect, your ~obedient servant, ANDREW A. ilARwooD, Commodore, Commanding -Navy Yard. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the iVavy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. CORWIN, Off Washington, A ugust 13, 1862. SIR: I respectfully report that while prosecuting the survey of the middle Potomac I have learned the fbllowing iu regard to the extensiv Page 61 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 61 trade between Maryland and Virginia, viz: Although to a certain degree extending from St. Marys River to Swan Point, the principal depots appear to be Leonardtown and Wicomico Bay [Md.]. I am pos- itive the trade is larger from the latter place. Articles of almost every description are exchanged for wheat, corn, fruits, and Virginia money, at a discount of from 40 to 50 per cent, and are carried in flatboats or small schooners (frequently manned entirely by negroes), often by daylight, but principally at night. Nomini River, Popes, Bridge, Mattox, Rosiers, and Upper Machodoc creeks are the most prominent places where the goods are landed, and from thence they find their way to the Rappahannock, the York, Richmond, and beyond. Nearly all the grain boumid to the Maryland shore is exchanged for articles to be sent South. A Mr. C. C. Spalding, of Chaptico, St. Marys County, Md., is the principal furnisher in Wicomico Bay. Fishing schooners, or vessels passing for such, are much engaged in this traffic. As a general rule all boats and small schooners bound to the Virginia shore may be considered as being engaged in trading or in carrying mails or passengers. I have been informed of another method pursued, viz: A Virginian or other person, owning or commanding a small schooner or sioop, takes the oath of allegiance to the United States, clears from Alexandria or George- town for Baltimore, Md., and from thence back but before leaving the former place procures from the military governor of the district per- mission to touch at certain creeks in Virginia to carry away grain which he happens to own. This class of people, if I credit the testi- inony of their neighbors, is frequently loyal to both Governments, and the grain is either purchased from rebels or owned wholly by them, and in removing the grain they often carry violent rebels with it to Balti- more, who return through Maryland. I am, very resp~ctfully, your obedient servant, Tuos. S. PHELPS, Lieutenant, Commanding, U. S. Navy. Captain A. A. HARwOOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Instructions from commandant navy yard, Washington, to Lieutenant- Commander ]lliagaw, U. S. Navy, sewior officer Potomac Flotilla, for suppression of contraband trade. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, August 14, 1862. SIR: Upon receipt of this you will dispatch one of the steamers under your command to make a close examination of the coast and streams between the York River and the Potomac River as early as practicable. Smuggling to a considerable extent is represented as being carried on bet~veen these rivers, and you will instruct the officer detailed for this service to use every effort to break up contraband operations and to obtain as much information as he can as to the nature and extent of such operations in this quarter and the localities from which they are conducted. You will report the result fully and promptly. Further information has been received with relation to these illicit operations in the Potomac River Page 62 62 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I note briefly the prominent points furnished by Lleutenant-Com- mander Phelps, of the Coast Survey steamer (Jorwin: To a certain degree this trade extends from St. Marys River to Swan Point, but the principal depots appear to be Leonardtown and Wicomico Bay, from which place the trade is greater. It is carried on in ilatboats or small schooners (frequently manned entirely by negroes), often by daylight, but principally at night. Nomini River, Popes, Bridge, Mattox, Rosiers, and Upper Machodoc creeks are the most prominent places where the goods are landed, and thence they find their way to the Rappahannock and the York rivers, to Richmond an(l heyond. Nearly all the grain bonnJ to the Maryland shore is exchanged for articles to be sent Sonth. A Mr. C. C. Spalding, of Chaptico, St. Marys County, Md., is the principal fur- nisher in Wicomico Bay. Fishing schooners, or vessels passing for such, are much engaged in this traffic. As a geaeral rule all boats and small schooners bound to the Virginia shore may be considered as either engaged in trading illicitly or in carrying mails and passengers. From Popes Creek and the creek above it, and the inlet on the oppo- site shore in the neighborhood of Cobbs Point, there is much of this traffic going on. If you have any of the ordinary bateaux or flat-bottomed boats with sliding keels in your possession, or can get hold of any, by putting an armed crew properly disguised in the rough dress of the country on board of them and visiting these localities at night, you will be able to capture a number of these traders. I rely upon your activity and discretion, and hope soon to hear of further results of your efforts. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAnwooD, Commodore. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MA~AW. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to commandant navy yard, VVashing- ton, for the rigid enforcement of blockade. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 16, 1862. SIR: I have received your letter of the 14th instant, enclosing report of Lieutenant-Commander T. S. Phelps. General Wadsworth assures me that he gives no permits. There must be an entire interdiction of all traffic until the blockade is raised. The flotilla will be vigilant to enforce the blockade and seize all vessels that violate it. I am, respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES. Commodore A. A. ilAnwooD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. Report of commandant navy yard, Washington, regarding capture of prize sloop Blossom, and skir?nish in Sturgeon Creek, Virginia. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, August 16, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that the steam tug Leslie arrived here last night, bringing with her the sloop Blossom, a prize to the Reliance, captured by Acting Master Josselyn, on the 12th, off Currioman Bay Page 63 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 63 There were eight pcions on board of the Blossom, one of whom, named Bagley, is reported as having been engaged in traffic between Virginia and Maryland for upward of a year. There were also 30 sacks of wheat on board this vessel. On the 11th instant, Acting Master Josselyn chased and ran on shore a small sloop which was attempting to cross to Virginia from Bretons Bay. The crew escaped, destroying or carrying with them everything except some salt and 2 hogsheads of sugar. The prisoners, vessel, and prize goods are secure and wiH l)e handed over to the provost-marshal according to instructions. On the 12th instant Acting Master Tole endeavored to bring ont of Sturgeon Creek [Virginia] a schooner and sloop which had been run- ning the blockade. These vessels were both aground. The sioop was got afloat, bnt,in towing her down the creek, the boat was fired upon from the woods and a skirmish ensued, in which three of the boats crew were slightly wounded and the enemy driven off. The sioop, how- ever, got aground, and Mr. Tole abandoned her, to use his own expres- sion, not wishing to burn her up. This is the substance of the events reported by Lieutenant Com- manding Magaw, further particulars of which will be communicated more at leisure. He calls my attention to the activity and diligence of Acting Master Josselyn, commanding the Reliance, who, from all I hear, is worthy of commendation. Lieutenant Commanding Magaw has been obliged to beach the prize schooner Sabine, loaded with coal. She leaked badly and her pumps were choked. The coal can be saved. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commandant. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Letterfrom commandant navy yard, Washington, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding the sicir- mish in Sturgeon Creek and other matters. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, August 18, 1862. SIR: I have received your letter of the 15th instant with the enclosed reports* of Acting Master J. C. Tole and Francis Josselyn. With ref- erence to the skirmish in Sturgeon Creek, [Virginia], I have to remark that it is never proper to risk the lives of men for an inadequate object. Whether that object is adequate or not can best be decided by those who are on the spot and have the work to do. Consequently, a wide margin of discretion must be allowed to the officer in command, upon whom the responsibility rests. In making attempts to cut vessels out in open boats, reliable infor- mation as to the probability of resistance being made and the extent of the means of resistance should be obtained, and the force sent should be regulated accordingly. * Not found Page 64 (;4 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. These precautions are absolutely obligatory on the officer in com- mand. I do not intend to censure Acting Master Tole without knowing more of the circumstances connected with the affair, but I wish you to explain these general principles to him and ask him why, after his party had been attacked and had driven off the assailants, he did not destroy the vessel to prevent her from being used for the purposes to prevent which he attempted to take her out. The boats crew are worthy of commendation for their good conduct, and I hope you will take such notice of them in the way of advance- ment as may be in your power. The prisoners taken in Bretons Bay by the Reliance were all deliv- ered to the I)rovost-Inarshal, the woman sent up with them only was discharged, and coming upon our hands at the navy yard, I send her back in the Leslie to be restored to her home. In all similar cases for the fature you will please avoid sending women here unless you have l)ositive proof of their disloyalty, as, if dismissed by the authorities, they come back at once upon those who have no accommodation for them. I wish you to write me freely in semiofficial form, if you prefer it and think it would further the service. With regard to the arrest of certain citizens of Maryland and Vir- ginia, the Department could not delegate the power to you; but you are particularly enjoined discreetly and diligently to obtain sufficient evidence against them, and the arrest will be made by authority of the War Department. 1 have mentioned to the Department the necessity of increasing yonr force, and the Secretary expressed himself disposed to do so. I will see if tIme Department will bid for the Eureka, which is to be sold on Thursday, and if possible have her fitted for you. A couple of whaleboats are on their way from New York, which I will place at your disposal if you think they will be of service. I have not seen the paymasters clerk, though enquiry has been made for him, but will send him down by the first opportunity after his retnrn. I enclose a copy of the letter from the Secretary of the Navy in relation to the blockade of the river. It seems that permits were shown by some of the vessels said to be from General Wadsworth and you will put the officers under your coru- mand on their guard against forgeries, and give them each a written order that there must be an entire interdiction of all traffic until the blockade is raised. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MM~-Aw, Potomac Flotilla. Report of commandant nary yard, Washington, of seizure, by U. S. S. Resolute, of schooner S. S. Jones, and of expedition to Sturgeon Creek, Virginia. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAvy YARD, Washington, August 23, 1862. Sig: The Resolute arrived here this morning with the schooner S. S. Jones, which was taken possession of by Acting Master James C. Tole on the 11th instant Page 65 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 65 The Jones had on board of her the dead body of Mr. Gersham, at- tended by Mrs. Gersham, two other ladies, and a gentleman, all belong- ing to Virginia. This party was permitted to land. The schooner had a conditional clearance from the custom-house at Baltimore; a few articles, however, did not appear on her manifest. On the 21st instant Mr. Tole, accompanied by Acting Master Josselyn, of the ~clic~~~ce,in a launch maimed from that vessel and the Resolute, went into Sturreon Creek to cut out or destroy two vessels; they found these vessels had been scuttled and destroyed them by fire. On the return of the launch it was fired on by a party from the bushes and Michael Ityan, landsman, was instantly killed by a shot through the head; Mr. Newton, masters mate, was wounded in the leg, and two of the crew of the Reliance were slightly hurt. The enemy was driven off, it is supposed with some loss, but to what extent was not ascer- tamed, the care of the wounded preventing our men from landing. Our men are described as behaving with their accustomed coolness and bravery. The body of Michael iRyan has been brought to the yard, and meas- ures have been taken to bury it, according to the request of his friends, in the Catholic cemetery this afternoon. The Resolute brings also two refugees. On the night of the 13th instant all possible assistance was rendered by Acting Master Josselyn and Masters Mate Crandall to the passen- gers, invalid soldiers, and crew of the West Point army transport which was run into by the George Peabody. Many persons were saved, among them Colonel Scott and several other officers, by the exertion of the officers and the men of the flotilla who were present at the scene of the disaster. I am informed that the contraband trade is still going on, even by daylight, whenever the vessels of the flotilla are absent, and that horses and recruits for the rebel Army are transported in large scows and flat-bottomed boats, which are kept concealed in the bushes. A thorough scouring of this section is absolutely necessary in order to put a stop to these operations, and for that purpose a reenforcemeut of ves- sels and men is required. I can only supply three of the five men Mr. Tole requires to take the place of the wounded men of his crew. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. ilAuwoon, Commandant. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] FALMOUTH, VA., August 23, 186210:44 a. m. (IReceived at Washington 11 a. in.) The schooner Active lies here loaded with furniture for Mr. Clarke; wants to be towed down. Steamer Reliance is here. Shall I have the schooner towed down by her ~ Steamer Reliance goes down this after- noon, she having come up here with some wounded men by order General Burn side. NELSON PRovosT, Acting Master, Commanding U. S. S. Anacostia. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. NWRY0L5 Page 66 66 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND !1?APPAHANNOCK. Report of commandant navy yard, Washington, transmitting reports relative to expedition to Port Royal, Va., and other matters. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, August 25, 1862. SIR: Enclosed you will find a report in relation to some operations which have taken place near Port Royal Ferry [Va.], by a party from the Anacostia, Acting Master Provost, and a detachment from the Army. In the letter from the lieutenant-commander, Magaw, in which this enclosure was forwarded, I find two points to which I beg leave to call the attention of the Department: First. The traffic between Maryland and Virginia is much diminished, but large numbers of men from Charles and St. Marys counties, it is said, have crossed to escape drafting. That Lieutenant-Commander Magaw has been correctly informed in this particular is evident from the list of persons reported by Mr. Provost, in which the names of well- known Maryland families occur. Second. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw requires more men h none to man the launches sent him. , aving He also asks for two additional masters mates, and remarks that he has no one to recommend from the flotilla. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commandant. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, August 23, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the positions of the vessels under my command for the past two weeks. The Freeborn has been in the Rappahannock for a day, the rest of the time between Lower Cedar Point and St. Marys River, in the Potomac, the Reliance and Resolute relieving each other from the Rappahannock to the Potomac. The Anacostia remains at Fredericksburg. I enclose the report of Acting Master Provost, commanding the Anacostia, of an expedition (by order of General Burnside) to Port Royal (on the Rappahannock). I have instructed Mr. Provost to comply with any request the commanding officer of the land forces may make. The traffic between Maryland ani Virginia is much diminished, but large numbers of men from Charles and St. Marys counties, I learn, have crossed to escape drafting. Jam obliged for the launches, Nos. 1 and 2, but without men and offi- cers they are useless. I intended going to Washington in person, but the absence of the Resolute will not permit my leaving until she returns. I will require two additional acting masters mates, and I have no one to recommend from the flotilla. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWooD, Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, D. C Page 67 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 67 [Subenclosurel U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Fredericksburg, August 16, 1862. SIR: Li pursuance of orders from Major-General Buruside, I went on board the steamboat Coopers Point, Captain 0. Lachemeyer, with a detachment of six men of the crew of the U. S. gunboat Anacostia and twenty-five of the Ninth New York Volunteers (Hawkins Zouaves), iii command of Lieutenant [Geo. H.] Herbert. The whole force was armed and we also had the two brass howitzers which are attached to Lieu- tenant Herberts company. Our point of destination was Port Royal, a small town, some 35 miles below Fredericksburg on the Rappahannock River, where we were credibly informed that regular communication was had with Rich- mond and Baltimore. On the way down I landed at several plantations and found them deserted by the proprietors. From information received from contra- bands I was led to believe that recruits for the rebel Army were being ferried across the river to Port Royal, and passed thence to Richmond, and that arms, goods, and stores of various kinds were also safely sent by the same route. Accordingly, II hauled my vessel up the stream and waited for night. About midnight a negro named Richard Parker brought me word that a wagonload of goods had arrived and was waiting transportation across the river. Taking Captain Lachemeyer and ten men I ascended the bank and a short distance from the ferry found and arrested three young men, who acknowledged that they were on their way to Rich- mond to join the rebel Army. About half an hour later a party of ten more in a four-horse wagon came up and were met and held in talk by Captain Lachemeyer (who led them to suppose him to be a rebel soldier) until I arrived with a fresh detachment and took them prisoners. Part of them were armed with pistols, but a careful search of their baggage revealed no papers except some of little importance, which were sent to General Burnside, and some letters, which accompany this report. I also destroyed several small boats at Port Royal and burned the canal boat, which they used to ferry persons across the river. This boat was raised during the last freshet and used for the purpose named, or else was floated off from the bank. The following are the names of the prisoners taken, who were handed over to the provost-marshal at this place: A. Grins, Morgan E. Harris, W. H. Archer, John L. Welch, E. K. Goldsborough, Albert Mudd, George Mudd, C. R. Hodges, W. S. Winder, M. Thompson, H. Burch, Lloyd Lowndes, G. C. Burch. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding Anacostia. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAc~Aw, Comdg. Potomac and Rappahannock Flotilla, U. S. S. Freeborn Page 68 68 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 24, 1862. Send immediately, if not already done, one of the double-end gun- boats and four lighter draft boats to Aquja Creek to cooperate with the Army. Let them report by letter to the I)epartinent. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore CHARLES WILKES, Commanding James River Flotilla, Fortress iilionroe. [Telegram.] FALMOUTIL [VA.], August 24, r1862]2:20p. m. (Received at Washington 2:50 p. in.) The five or six gunboats which were to be sent to Aquia Creek have not yet arrived. It is advisable that they should be sent there at once. A. E. BURNSJDE, SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Major.Ueneral. [Telegram.] FORTRESS MONROE, August 25, 1862. (Received at Washington, D. C., August 2611 a. in.) SIR: The vessels, one double-ender and four smaller steamers of light draft, have been dispatched, agreeably to your order by telegram. They will report to you on arrival at Aquia Creek by letter. Respectfully, yours, CHARLES WILKES, Commanding James River Flotilla. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAvY, Washington. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to 6fommodore Wilkes, U. S. Navy, commanding James River Flotilla, relative to gunboats for duty in Aquia Creek, Virginia. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 25, 1862. SIR: I sent you a telegram yesterday, directing that five gunboats be sent immediately to Aquia Creek to cooperate with the Army. This order was in a verbal requisition to the Department for five or six light- draft gunboats at that point. I did not specify which boats, for I knew not which boats could be spared with least detriment to you. They will doubtless have beeii dispatched before this reaches yon. The change that has taken place in the army movements and the withdrawal of the troops from the Peninsula will render necessary a corresponding change in the flotilla, which was organized to cooperate with and aid the Army in its then contemplated demonstration upon Richmond. Until the military forces shall have become consolidated under the new order, the flotilla will continue to menace Richmond, but the Department is not prepared to advise offensive operations, nor do Page 69 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 69 know that it is expected. In a few days the flotilla will in all proba- bility be relieved, and, as soon as it can be, a considerable portion of its gunboats will be detached and ordered to other duty. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore CHARLES WILKES, Commanding James River Flotilla. Letter from commandant navy yard, Washington, to Lieutenant- Com- mander Magaw, U. S. Nary, senior otjlcer Potomac Flotilla, giving infor- mation of the operations of a smuggler. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, August 26, 1862. SIR: I forward for your information, careful examination, and discreet action some memoranda derived from a source which entitles them to confidence. There is a person, whose name I glean to be Sable (this is probably incorrect, but the name is not of much consequence), who is driving an extensive contraband trade. He comes over twice a week from the Virginia shore and goes into Smiths Creek, which is between Point Lookout and St. Marys River. A fortnight ago to-day he carried over with a small sloop in company nearly 200 persons, some of whom he brought to the Maryland side with him, but a large number were recruits from that State. The individual has a large canoe, capable of carrying fifty or more per- sons. She has a white bottom, dark gunwales, two leg-of mutton sails, foresail bright and new, mainsail not more than half as large as the fore, of dark color, mildewed and old. The owner is usually disguised as a fisherman and has with him three persons in the daytime. The depot on the Maryland side is in Smiths Creek, up a long, unfre- quented cove, to Mr. Edward Ables landing. From this point he goes to St. Inigoes, where he is said to be supplied with various articles from a store kept by two personsTaylor and Bean. One of them is postmaster and the other collector of the county taxes, but both are spoken of as rank rebels. It?, therefore, you come in contact with them be upon your guard, as they may mislead you and will no doubt profess loyalty. Do not let them know you suspect them. The distance from St. Inigoes to Ables is short and they put out at a favorable moment. The smugglers have to pass the collectors office. He is not accused of being a traitor, but is said to be afraid. I do not wish you to com- municate more of these particulars to your officers than is necessary. They may be of use to you in forming your plans. I would recommend you to proceed cautiously with this wary rogue, and I do not think it best that the large vessels of the flotilla should appear too near his tracks. The Wyandank will join your flotilla as soon as she receives her coal and guns. I have pointed out the different places referred to in this letter upon the chart and he informs me he knows something of them. He will have men enough to fit out a boat expedition, which, if man- aged quietly and the boats crews disguised, I think will result in the capture of the smugglers and some at least of his gang Page 70 70 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. His starting point from the Virginia shore is from a small creek known as Presleys Creek ,5 or 6 miles belowthe mouth of Coan iRiver. I have pointed out the localities to Acting Master McGowan and directed him to show them to you and give you my views as to some of the details of the expedition. You will, however, nse your own discretion, as, being upon the spot, you have better opportunity of knowing what to do and how to do it. With best wishes for your success. I am, very respectfully, your obe- dient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Lieutenant-Commander S. MAGAW, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Josselyn, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Reliance, of depredations committed by army transports near the mouth of the Rappahannock River. U. S. S. RELIANCE, August 26 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report to you that, in my absence up the river to Fredericksburg, the steam transports Telegraph and Rotary came into the month of the Rappahannock and the crews from both vessels went on shore and robbed the houses on shore, breaking into the womeus trunks, taking their jewelry and clothes, and taking their beds away with them. Respectfully, your obedieiit servant, F. JOSSELYN, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding Flotilla, Potomac and Rappahannock. Report of Acting Master Foster, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Satellite, of arrival at Aquia Creek. U. S. S. SATELLITE, August 26, 1862. SIR: In obedience to the order of Commodore Charles Wilkes I have the honor to report the steamer Satellite at anchor off Aqula Creek. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, AMOS P. FOSTER, Hon. GIDEON WELLES. Commanding Satellite. Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] FALMOUTH, VA., Angust 27 [1862].6: SOp. m. (Received at Washington, D. C., 7 p. in.) The gunboats that you promised me have not been sent to Aquia Creek; there should be at least six sent there at once. A. II~. BtTRNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY Page 71 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 71 Report of Lieutenant Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. & Port Royal, of arrival at Aquia Creek. U. S. GUNBOAT PORT ROYAL, Aquia Creek, August 27, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the arrival of this steamer at this place, in obedience to orders received from Commodore Wilkes. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. (IT. MORRIS, Lieutenant, Cornmanding, U. S. Navy. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of thc Navy, Washington, D, C. Report of Lieutenant Quackenbush, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Delaware, of arrival at Aquia Creek. U. S. S. DELAWARE, Aquia Creek, August 27, 1862. SIR: In obedience to the order of Commodore Charles Wilkes, dated August 25, I have the honor to report my arrival at Aquia Creek. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. QUACKENBUSH, Lieutenant, Commanding. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Report of Acting Master Shankland, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck, of arrival at Aquia Creek. AQIJIA CREEK, August 27, 1862. SIR: I respectfully report the arrival at this place of the U. S. gun- boat Currituck to the Department, as per orders received from Commo- dore Charles Wilkes, commanding James River Flotilla. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. F. SHANKLAND, Acting Master, Commanding. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Master Hamilton, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Ca3ur de Lion, of arrival at Aquia Creek. U. S. S. CEUR DE LION, Aquia Creek, August 28, 1862. SIR: I most respectfully report that, in accordance with the orders of Commodore Charles Wilkes, commanding James River Flotilla, I have arrived at this station with my vessel, and am ready for such duty as you may assign me. Very respectfully, ALEX. HAMILTON, Acting Master, Commanding. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C Page 72 72 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] FALNOUTH [VA.], August 29 [1862 J1 p. m. The gunboats at Aquia Creek are about leaving for want of orders to remain. They should remain to protect the depot of supplies, and in fact there should be more of them. A. E. BURNSIDE, ZIft~jor- General. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 29, 1862. Retain all the vessels sent from James River at Aquia Creek until further orders, but act in conjunction with General Burnside, to whom you will communicate at Falmouth, Va. GIDEON WELLES, SENIOR NAVAL OFFICER, Secretary of the Navy. Off Aquia Creek. [Telegram.] AQUJA, August 29, 18623:40 p. m. (Received at Washington 3:50 p. in.) SIR: I have received your telegram and will act in accordance with the same. I have sent Lieutenant-Commander G. U. Morris to Fal- mouth to communicate with Major-General Burnside. Very respectfully, S. P. QUACKENBUSH, Lieutenant- Commander. Hon. GiDEoN WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 29, 1862. Turn over the command of the James River Flotilla to Rear-Admiral L. M. Goldsborough and proceed without delay to Washington with the Wachusett, Maratauza, Sonoma, Tioga, Aroostoolc, and six mortar boats and assume command of the Potomac Flotilla. Send the other six nlortar boats to Baltimore. Let the mortar boats come up under sail. Acknowledge receipt. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore CHARLES WILKES, Commanding James River Flotilla, Hampton Roads, Va Page 73 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 73 [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 29, 1862. I have sent an order to Aquia Creek to detain the boats. Wilkes is ordered up the Potomac with a dozen vessels, and xviii assume coiumand. U. V. Fox. Brigadier-General A. E. BURNSIDE, Falmouth, Va. Report of Acting Master Provost, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Anacostia, of expedition down the Rappahannock River. U. S. S. AKACOSTIA, Off Fredericksburg, Va., August 29, 1862. SIR: Having been requested by Major-General Buruside, I proceeded down the river in steamer Coopers Point with a section of Sixteenth New York Artillery, Captain [Milo W.] Locke, and twenty sharp- shooters of the Fourth Rhode Island, as far as Port Royal [Va.], breaking up several boats, and then at Port Royal Ferry. At 1 at night I arrested six persons, proving to be lieutenants, privates and recruits for the Southern Army, upon which no papers of any nupor- tance were found. One had trunk filled with smoking pipes, combs, and some jewelry (bogus); capturing one horse and carriage belonging to one Captain Gibbs, recruiting for Southern Army at Port Royal, lie having swum his horse across, boating himself and wagon, also he crossing and recrossing daily, joining his carriage on the opposite side, and proceeding toward the Potomac in order to meet partiesofficers, lieutenants, and privates for the rebel Armyand assisting same in transporting goods. The following parties were taken prisoners: Francis J. Reilly, jr., second lieutenant, Company G, Thirteent1~ Virginia. T. IR. Todd, Company E, First Maryland. Daniel Bile, Company E, First Maryland. B. M. Riley, recruit. E. Clark, recruit. J. Stockdale, recruit. Upon James Stockdale was found a certificate of enrollment within our Army. The prisoners were delivered up to General Burnside, and I hope this will meet your approval. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Letter from the mayor of Alexandria, Va., to the Secretary of the Navy, urging the presence of armed vessels off Aquia Creek. ALEXANDRIA, August 29, 1862. DEAR SIR: In view of what has occurred, I would most respectfully suggest the importance of guarding the Potomac River by armed steam- boats, particularly at the mouth of the river and at Aquia Creek Page 74 74 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Nothing seems to be too bold for the rebels to attempt, and the burn- ing of the wharf and trestlework at the creek and the capture and des- truction of the cars would be a serious affair. The rebel troops have recently been at Occoquan, and a raid from that point upon Aquia would be very easy. Secessionists here are looking for something of the kind, having actually put out the report of it to-day. It may be only a brief anticipation. I think a stationary boat here would be of service. Very respectfully, LEWIS MCKENZIE, Mayor. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. A single gun fired from the shores of the Potomac on vessels would at once prevent vessels coming here with supplies and would be a serious loss to the Government. I think the timber on the river ought to be cut down at all dangerous points; it could be done fore and aft of the river, without much difficulty, on the Virginia side. Order of commandant navy yard, Washington, to Lieutenant-Commander iViagaw, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, transmitting general order regarding articles on captured vessels. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, August 30, 1862. SIR: I enclose herewith a general order, of this date, relative to the securing of articles on board of captured vessels, which you will please communicate to all the vessels under your command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore and Commandant. Lieutenant SAML. MAGAW, Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure.] GENERAL ORDER.] NAVY YARD, WAS~IN~TON, August 30, 1862. Hereafter, all officers capturing vessels on the Potomac are required to see that all articles of merchandise or cargo are placed securely under lock and seal, and all small articles of value collected together and secured. All papers, of whatever description, to be carefully collected and sealed by the officer making the capture in person, in order that all those articles may be ready for immediate delivery 011 the arrival of such prize at this yard. ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commandant. [Telegram.] FORTRESS MONROE, August 30, 1862. (Received at Washington, ID. C., 5:10 p. in.) Your second dispatch has been received. The vessels are coaling, and will leave as soon as possible. It is blowing half a gale of wind Page 75 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 75 which retards us considerably. The mortar schooners will get under way as soon as it lulls and the tide moves them. All will be off by to- morrow. Respectfully, CHARLES WILKES. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Quackenbush, U. S. Navy, senior officer Potomac Flotilla, regarding vessels off Aquia Creek. U. S. S. DELAWARE, Aquia Creek. Potomac River, August 30, 1862. SIR: I respectfully request you will give the necessary orders for furnishing coal to this flotilla. The following vessels are now stationed off Aquia Creek: Delaware, Port Royal, Currituck, Satellite and Cecur de Lion. The latter vessel is leaking badly, and will probably have to be taken on the ways shortly for repairs. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. QUACKENBUSH, Lieutenant- Commander and Senior Officer. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] iN7AVx- DEPARTMENT, August 30, 1862. You can bring with you the Jacob Bell, Yankee, and the tug Alert. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore CHAS. WILKES, U. S. Navy. Old Point Comfort, Va. [Telegram.] FORT MONROE, August 31. (Received at Washington, 4: 15 p. in.) SIR: The vessels under my command leave within an hour to 10 oclock, 31st August. CHARLES WILKES, Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Commanding. Secretary of Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 1, 1862. Consult with Major-General Burnside and leave sufficient force to protect his movement. It is reported that the Anacostia is ashore in the Rappahaunock. Send one light-draft vessel in to her relief. Two have gone from the yard. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore CHAS. WILKES, C~ommanding Potomac Flotilla, off Aquia Creek. (Care Major-General A. E. Buruside. Page 76 76 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Lieutenant- Commander Whiting, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Wyandotte, to report for duty in Potomac Flotilla. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 1 1862. SIR: Proceed to the Potomac River with the U. S. S. Wyandotte, and, upon falling in with Commodore Wilkes, you will report to that officer for duty in the flotilla under his command. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES Lieutenant-Commander W. B. WHITING, Comman ding U. S. S. Wyandotte, New York. [Telegram.] AQUIA CREEK, September 1, 18626:4O a. m. (Received at Washington 7: 30 a. m) J ought to have more gunboats here. It is au absolute necessity. The Anacostia has been so notified and will be here in a day or two unless something happens. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Nary. [Telegram.] NAVY I)EPAThIMENT, September 1, 1862. Commodore Wilkes left Hampton Roads yesterday with nine gun- boats, and you had better intercept him when he passes to-day. He will no doubt leave part of his force with you at your request. G. V. Fox. Major-General A. F. BURNSIDE, Aquia Creek, Va. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 2, 1862. Turn over the vessels of the Potomac Flotilla, with all orders, in struc- tions, and information, to Commodore Charles Wilkes the commander of the James River Flotilla. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. Letter from commandant navy yard, Washington, to Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Navy, appointed to command Potomac Flotilla. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 2, 1862. SIR: By direction of the honorable Secretary of the Navy, I hereby turn over to you the vessels composing the Potomac Flotilla as follows: Thomas Freeborn, Lieutenant-Commander Samuel Magaw, com- manding Page 77 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 77 Anacostia, Acting Master Nelson Provost, commanding. Reliance, Acting Master F. Josselyn, commanding. Resolute, Acting Master J. C. Tole, commanding. Wyandank, Acting Master J olin McGowan, commanding. Teaser, Acting Ensign Philip Sheridan, commanding. Enclosed you will find copies of all orders, instructions, and informa- tion given to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw ill regard to the duties of said vessels. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAnwooD, Commodore. Commodore CHAS. WILKES, Commander of the James River Flotilla. [Telegram. NAVY YARD, [WAShINGTON, B. C.], September 2 [18G2],2 a. m. (Received 2 :25 a. in.) Your order directing four gunboats to be sent to Aqnia Creek has been delivered to Captain Jenkins in person. Boats will leave at daylight. A. A. HARwoon. Hon. G. WELLES. Order of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Nacy, Commanding Potomac Plot illa, regarding extent of command. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 2, 1862. SIR: Your command will include the Rappahannock and Piankatank rivers, both of which, and the landings adjacent, you will efi~ctually blockade. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary~ Commodore CHARLES WILKES, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. Report of Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Yavy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding location of U. S. steamers Jacob Bell and Wachusett. U. S. S. WACHUSETT, Off U. S. Arsenal, Potomac River, September 2, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that I have dispatched the Jacob Bell, with orders to anchor near Georgetown, and to guard the Virginia approach to the aqueduct. The Wachusett will take position this evening in the Virginia channel of the Potomac, near tile south end of the Long Bridge, and will effectually gnard the approach thereto. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES WILKES, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington Page 78 78 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Acting Master Provost, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Ana costia, of the movement of that vessel down the Rappahannock River. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, September 2, 1862. SIR: I left Fredericksburg, Va., on Sunday night, after the bridges being [were] blown up. At the request of General A. E. Buruside I left for the mouth of the Itappahannock River, breaking up all the boats I saw ou my way down. About 20 miles from the mouth of the river the eiigine broke down, which report I enclose. Before I left Fredericksburg, set on fire a sloop; did not learn her name. Respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAcfAW, Commanding Potomac and Rappahannock Flotilla. Weekly report ~f Lieutenant- Commander llliagaw, U. S. Navy, command- ing U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, relative to affairs in the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers. U. S. S. FREEEORN, Potomac River, September 4, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit my weekly report. The crossing from Maryland to Virginia has almost entirely ceased. Although craising at night iu boats, we have not succeeded in catching any parties. I have received your two general orders in relation to prizes and your letter marked confidential. Smiths Creek has been carefully watched. I received a note from Lieutenant-Commander de Krafft conveying au order from you in relation to the Anacostia, etc. I convoyed her from the Rappahannock to the Potomac, and send her to the yard. Her engine needs much overhauling. I enclose the report of her senior engineer; also a report of Acting Master Provost, commanding the Anacostia. The Rappahannock River is being blockaded by the Resolute, with orders not to leave the mouth. I presume it was not your intention to leave the entrance unguarded. The Freeborn has been cruising from Aquia Creek to Point Lookout. The Wyandank is at Piney Point, sup. plying stores, etc. The Reliance [is] also in the Potomac. One of the coal schooners sent to the mouth of the Rappahannock will be dis- charged to-day. I propose to hire a portion of the wharf at Piney Point for a coal depot. The demurrage of the two coal schooners amounts to about $16 per day, and 1 think the Piney Point wharf or that of Plowdens (on the Wicomico) [Md.], can be contracted for at $3. Will you authorize it ~ Masters Mate J. J. Brice has been under my command for about a year. I cheerfully recommend him and ask your influence that he be made an acting ensign and pntced in command of the Eureka. Since the death of Mr. John Johnson, second assistant engineer of this vessel, in May last, I have had but two third assistants, Mr. William P. Magaw being the senior. His duties have been performed to my entire satisfaction, and I beg you will have him made a second assistant or have an officer of that grade sent to me. I received a verbal order from Commodore Wilkes to act under my present instruc. tions until further orders. I enclose some requisitions and a lette Page 79 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 79 from a lady in Westmoreland County, Va., in relation to her negroes. I have not seen or heard of them. Some parties from the transports Telegraph and Rotary have landed in Lancaster County (Rappahan- nock) and committed depredations, of which the flotilla got the credit, as well as that of negro stealing. Everything was quiet on the lower iRappahanuock yesterday. Some few of the enemys sconts had been seen. Some barges loaded with army stores were wrecked in the recent gale near the mouth of the iRappahannock. The inhabitants plundered two of them, and the others, four in number, are bilged, but under charge of the Resolute, the qnartermast& s agent in charge promising to send a wrecking party at once. From the two that were plundered nine men were taken, and I suppose sent to IRichmond. Acting Master John Kellogg, recently returned from sick leave, is senior to Mr. Plnnkett, who is a much younger and more active officer, and I dont wish him superseded. If Mr. Kellogg can be detached, and you will send me two masters mates, I will be obliged. I have but two, and they have a watch to keep and boat duty also. Very respectfully, your servant, SAMUEL. MAcJAW, Lieutenant. Commander. Commodore A. A. llARxvoon, Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. General instructions of Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. WACHUSETT, September 5, 1862. First. All vessels, steamers, boats, and transports are to be over- hauled. If they have no passes they will be detained and reported. The passes will be signed by the commanding officer of flotilla. Second. All boats or canoes of no value will be destroyed; but if of value, to be detained for tow to Washington. The papers (registers, etc.) will be evidence respecting their characters, and will be carefully sealed and transmitted to the flagship. Third. All passengers are to be retained and sent up to the flagship. Fourth. No communication of any kind is to be permitted between the shore of the rivers or bays. Fifth. As many boats are to be fitted to cruise during the night as can be spared from the vessels. The crews who have been in the boats at night will be permitted to take their hammocks for certain hours during the day. Sixth. The communication along the river will be maintained through the vessels on the different stations by passing dispatches, reports, mails, etc., from one station to another, and so on up to the flagship. The lower station will leave at 8 a. m. One hour and thirty minutes is allowed for the transmission through the limits of each station. Reports to be made daily. In case of necessity, reports will be sent immediately by the same mode of transmission. This plan is resorted to to prevent any vessel from going beyond the limits of her station. Seventh. Signals (boat code) will be repeated through the several stations, with the smokestack iniumber of the vessel where it originates. This will take place as often as requisite to give information. CHARLES WILKES, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 80 80 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant-Commander lJfagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, relative to the capture of a small schooner. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, September 5, 1862p. m. SIR: I respectfully enclose a report * of Acting Master Josselyn, com- manding the Reliance, of the capture of a small schooner this morning at Currioinan. The parties in her, with the exception of one man, escaped. * * * * * * * I have the honor to be. etc., SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Navy Yard. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Miagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Thomas Freebarn, regarding seizures. U. S. S. FREEBORN, September 6, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to enclose the report* of Acting Master McGowan in relation to some seizures made by the officers and crew of the Wyandank-; also a report of an examination held on the boiler and engine of the Reliance. I shall be obliged to send her to the yard in a few days for repairs. I have detained the Anaeostia at Piney Point, her accounts having just been transferred to Paymaster Cosby, and sonic of her crew are to be paid oft. This morning before day I seized a large white canoe entering Smiths Creek and answering yonr description in your letter (marked confiden- tial) of the 26th. Two men, Thomas Richardson and William Allen, were in her. I have detained them until I can further investigate the matter. They state they were oystering, which is improbable, from the fact that they were without tongs. I think the canoe was on her return from a trip to Virginia. I am informed that Mr. Richard Colton (whose son I reported to you as having gone into Virginia) will soon make a trip to Baltimore for the purpose of purchasing arms, etc., to send to Virginia. Mr. Colton was lately appointed enrolling officer of his district, but declined serving. The inhabitants of this (St. Marys) county are very bitter and exulting over what they call our late reverses. You will see in Mr. McGowans report that one of his boats was fired on last night from the Maryland shore. I would recommend a land force, say two companies, to cooperate with the steamers. I have sent word to certain parties that I would hold their farms responsible if any of my officers or men were killed or wounded by shots fired therefrom. I regret to say that Third Assistant Engineer McLane, of the Wyan- dank, was accidentally wounded by discharge of his pistol. He was sent on board the Corwin, where he had immediate medical attendance. It was carelessness on his part. If the surgeons report it necessary I will send him to the hospital. I will send by the Anacostia a small schooner and all contraband articles captured, as also the prisoners, with statements, agreeably to your late general orders. I take the lib- erty of sending you a small Virginia Commonwealth note of the new issue; it is the first I have seen. Not found Page 81 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOOR. 81 The Reliance has some dozeu Erifield rifles, obtained from the wrecks of the two barges plundered by the inhabitants of Mathews County, Va. I have directed her to turn them over to the oi~dnance department at the yard. They belong to the Army. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARwOO~, U. S. Navy, Commanding Nary Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] WASHINGTON NAVY YARD, September 9, 186210: 40 a. m. * * * * * * An important check to the trade across the river has been given. We have prisoners, iuerchaiidise, aiid papers, showing who the fur- nishers of goods are. I am waiting for Commodore Wilkes to act as turned over to him. , my command has been A. A. HAnwoon, Commandant Navy Yard. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy. Report of Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla~, regar(ling the forwarding of persons and papers captared by the U. S. S. Wyandank. U. S. S. WACIIUSETT, Navy Yard, Washington, September 9, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to enclose sundry papers * taken possession of by the officer iu charge of the launch of the Wyandank; and also to inform the Department that I have turned over to Commodore liar- wood the following-named persons, who were captured by the launch of the Wyandank: Dr. William Wirt (white), William Hammond (yellow), John Locust (yellow), William Hammond (yellow), Edward Mahoney (black), Charles L. Cook (white), William Rich (black), John Hungerford (black), Rob- cit Rich (black), Bushrod E. Courtney (white). I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES WILKES, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington. Unimportant. NWRvoL5 Page 82 82 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Navy, to transfer the command of Potomac Flotilla to Commodore Harwood U. S. Navy. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 9, 1862. SIR: You will turn over the coinniand of the Potomac Flotilla to Commodore Harwood, and furnish him with a list of the vessels, their disl)osition, an(1 orders. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. Commodore CHARLES WILKES, U. S. Navy, Washington, D. C. Order of the Secretary ~f the Navy to commandant navy yard, Washington, regarding U. S. schooner Bailey. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 9, 1862. SIR: You will please send the schooner Bailey to the Philadelphia navy yard, there to be laid up, subject to the order of the Coast Survey. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Coinitiodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, P. C. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Nary, to assume command of the Potomac Flotilla, and transmitting letter from the mayor of Alexandria regarding the removal of trees Jrom the Virginia shore. INAVY DEPARTMENT, September 9, 1862. SIR: Enclosed herewith please find copy of a letter, dated the 6th instant, from L. McKenzie, esq., mayor of Alexandria, Va., who can furnish 700 or 800 contrabands. The suggestions therein contained are worthy of yonr attention. Commodore Wilkes having been ordered to sea, you will for the present direct the movements of the Potomac Flotilla. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Enclosure.] MAyoRs OFFICE, Alexandria, Va., September 6, 1862. DEAR SIR: I would beg leave most respectfully to suggest that, in view of the fact of the probable occupancy of Manassas and the accu- mulating again of Confederate troops on the Potomac at no very dis- tant period to prevent vessels coming up the Potomac, a sufficient jorce of coutrabands under cover of the gunboats be sent down to cu Page 83 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 83 down the trees on the shores of Virginia sufficiently far back to prevent the buihlin g of batteries or the planting of fieldpieces to fire on vessels. Unless this is done we may look for a repetition of the same kind of annoyances our vessels met with, which so largely increased the expenses of transportat ion for the Army. The first gun fired increases the rates 5() per cent. Your obedient servant, LEwis MCKENZIE, Mayor. Hon. GiDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Jiliarwood, U. S. Yavy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding captures made by U. S. S. Delaware. COMMANDANTS GITICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 10, 18G2. SIR: The Reliance arrived at the yard this morning with six l)ris- oners all(l a (~uantity of dry goods, takeii by the Delaware. The prisoners have been sent to the provost-marshal, an d the goods will be delivered to the prize court as soon as they are landed. The lollowing is a list of the prisoners, viz: Hiram Hardwick, of Hague, Va. John Hanson, of Fluvanna, Va. Joseph Newman,of Warsaw, Va. Charles Johnson (colored), of Hague, Va. Eli Randy (colored), of Mattox, Y~a. Also Hichard W. Jenkins, of Currioman, Va., captured by the Reliance. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore. iou. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. U S Report of Commodore Harwood, . . Navy, com2nanding Potomac Flo tilla, of the receipt of letter from the mayor of Alexandria, Va. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 10, 18G2. Sin: I have received your letter of yesterday instructing inc to direct. for the present, the movements of the Potomac Flotilla, and enclosing a copy of a letter from the mayor of Alexandria. I will confer with the mayor to-day for the purpose of ascertaining his views definitely, and of rendering him such assistance as the service may demand. 1 have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwooD, Commodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 84 84 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Letter from Commodore Wilkes, U. S. Navy, lute commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, transferring that com- mand to him. U. S. S. WACUUSETT, September 10, 1862. SIR: I herewith enclose* a list of the vessels of the Potomac Yb- Ulla and their stations, which, by order of the Navy 1)epa.rtment, II tuirn over to your command. 1 also forward to you a chart of the Poto- mac, with stations marked; also sundry requisitions, approve(l an(I not approved, and other papers relating to the squadron, and two books of blank passes. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ChARLES WILKES, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOoD Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, P. C. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, seeking Departments instructions. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YAun, Washington, September 11, 1862. SIR: In Lieutenant-Commander Magaws weekly report, dated Free- born, September 4, he proposes to hire a portion of the wharf at Piney Point for a coal depot. lie remarks that the demurrage of the two coal schooners amounts to about $16 a day, and that he thinks the ~vhiai-t in question or that of Plowdens, on the Wicornico [Md.], can be contracted for at the rate of $3 a day. Will you please inform me whether in this and in like circumstances involving economy I may use my discretion ~ I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ][fagaw, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, of arrival in the Potomac from the Reppahannock River. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Off Smiths Point, September 15, 1862. SIR: I respectfally report that I came from the Rappahannock last muight to Point Lookout for water, succediug, however, in getting about a days alowauce. Nothing has occurred since my letter of yesterday. Several shells were fired this morning in the vicinity of Coau liver, supposed to be from one of the mortar boats. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, SAMITEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Not found Page 85 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 85 Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding capture of s~spicious persons. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 15, 1862. SIR: I have to report that I brought up with me in the Ella the fol- lowing persons: Refugees.Dr. William H. Chalmers John Whitman Jo Scott Gisby, A. B. Ilntcliings. hn Simpson, Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, of the Jacob Bell, referring to these persons, writes: They represent themselves as Union men and as having been unable to leave Rich- morel ere this. They have been there eighteen months. I can not xonch for their assertion being true or false. They say they belong to New York. I trust no one. These persons were sent oii my arrival to the provost-marshal, with a statement of their cases. J~risoncr~.William Allen and Thomas Richardson, captured in the Potomac River oft Smiths Creek, St. Marys County, Nd., in the large white canoe, identified as the one known to have been used for some time in transporting passengers and merchandise from Maryland to Virginia. These men, when questioned, said they were oystering; but had no implements on board for the purpose. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, ou examining a list of names of Vir- ginians engaged in illegal traffic, which list was given by a loyal citi- zen l)revious to the capture, found the names of William Allen and Thomas Richardson noted as having transported ammunition and recruits for the enemy. I have made this statement to the provost-marshal, and I hope these men may not be set free. I have reason to believe that they are very unscrupulous in taking and breaking the oath of allegiance to the United States. I have the honor to be,with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAuwooD, Commodore, Commanding Flotilla, Potomac River. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Reji~ort Qf Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, regarding the burning of schooner Arctic. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Mouth of Rappahannock, September 15, 1862. Sm: I respectfully report having burned one of the schooners I spoke to you of, in the Great Wicomico, named the Arctic. The others were worthless. There are two companies of the enemy between Great Wicomico and the head of Coan River. Some of them were seen by our launch this morning, apparently making aii attempt to reach a point near which she would have to pass, but nothing more was seen of them, as they had to pass through some woodland Page 86 86 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I came into this river this afternoon; no sign of the enemy here. The Resolute has arrived. I have the honor to be, your servant, SAMUEL MA~AW, Lieutenant- Comm ctnder. Commodore ANDREW A. ilARwoon, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore flarwood, U. S. Nary, comm ending Potomac Flotilla, transmitting information regard- ing breach of blockade between Maryland and Virginia. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 15, 1862. SIR: I herewith enclose a copy of a letter from Stephen Shiun, esq., of Alexandria, dated 7th instant, in refereiice to communication between the Maryland and Virginia shores. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Enclosure.] ALEXANDRIA, September 7, 1862. SIR: I am credibly informed that there is a small schooner-rigged boat regularly plying between Port Tobacco, Md., and Upper Machodoc Creek, Va., carrying mails and passengers. This boat was built and owned by H. itt. Bradshaw, of this city; is a flat, with a centerboard, and is singularly rigged with quite a short foremast, and is well calcu- lated for such business. 1 do not know that Bradshaw is with the boat, but he is absent from here and is quite a shrewd fellow, and would readily engage in such business for money. I am further informed there is a small, white-pail)ted sloop engaged in the same business from Cobbs Point, Md., to the Virginia shore. These fellows are too sharp to be caught by the gunboats or revenue cutters, as they know them all and keep out of their way. There is a Captain John Bristow in the propeller Downing, who knows them and tells me that he could capture them if authorized to do so. This pro- peller is already in the employ of the Government. I have communicated with General Wadsworth to-day on the sub- ject, as he recently informed me he had sent some cavalry down into that country. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, STEPHEN SHINN. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington Page 87 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 87 Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Ilarwood, U, 5, Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding wharfage. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 16, 1862. SIR: Your letter * of the I ith instant has been received. You are authorized to use your discretion in the matter of hiring a wharf or wharves for the vessels of the flotilla on the Potomac. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. (Jommo(lore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Nary Yard, Washington, D. C. Report of A cting Master Ires, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Yankee, of the arrest of Dr. Lomax and Mir. Lye. U. S. S. YANKEE, September 16, 1862. Sin: I beg respectfully to report that yesterday afterucon at about 4 p. in. a deserter, calling himself Perry Seymour, came on board aiid requested protection. He says that he left Richmond about three weeks ago and only arrived day before yesterday at the Potomac River. Dr. Lomax and Mr. Pye were arrested last evening by the guard boat from this vessel at about 9 oclock. They were in a small skiff, and they state(l that they were only going to the Maryland shore to see Mr. Pyes father. There was no merchandise in the boat. Very respectfully, THOMAS POYNTON IVES, Acting Master, Commanding. Connuodore HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 17, 18623 p. m. Dr. Lomax and Mr. Pye, who were arrested by the Yankees boats on the Potomac, have been released by the military authorities and ask for a passage back again. I think it may be safely granted. Shall I grant it~i A. A. ilARwOoD. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Report of Acting Master Rogers, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. schooner William Bacon, regarding examination of schooner George II. Berry. U. S. SCHOONER WILLIAM BACON, Off Kettle Bottom Shoals, Potomac River, September 17, 1862. Sin: Having been a week to-day on this station, and not having seen Lieutenant-Commander Franklin, or any senior officer, to report ~See p. 84 Page 88 88 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. to or receive instructions from, I may be doiig unwittingly what is not right. However, I will strive to do what is right to the best of my ability. If I err I hope you will overlook it. I should be very glad to get some instructions ill regard to several matters. On Monday, the 15th, I saw a small schooner close in with the land above Monroes Creek, on the Virginia shore. We lay at the time oft Mattox Creek. I had some suspicion and immediately got nuderway and ran up toward him [and] boarded him. I found on the return of my officer with the captain and his papers that it was the schooner George H. Berry, 31.~ ~ tons register, George IN. West, master, under an enrollment and coasting license granted at the port of Accomac Court-House, on the 25th day of June, 1862, signed by II. P. Parker, surveyor of said port, and taken out for the term of one year. Things appearing all right and his papers granted in pursuance of and according to the rules of the act of Congress of the United States of America, I endorsed his papers, gave him permis- sion to proceed up river, he being bound to Washington. He had in some little produce and 600 or 700 bushels of oats in bulk. The wind had fallen calm through the night, and the ebb tide obliged him to anchor in the position I found him. I have seen by accident in a news- paper that all vessels trading or coasting on the Potomac River are obliged to have a permit from the commander of the Potomac Flotilla. The George H. Berry had none, but I did not see this until after. I would be obliged to you if you would arrange so that [I] can gain some infor- mation in regard to such matters, and also what I shall do with contra- bands. Three came off on board of this vessel on the 15th. They knew nothing of the schooner I have spoken of, but they say that their master, Mr. Spearman, and others, are concerned in a pungy or small vessel that is coming into Mattox Creek. I am on the lookout, and lay off the month of the creek. Please inform me what I shall do with coutrabands. Mr. Lane grows no better, and has either chills or fever every day and is growing weak, and I think I ought to order him to report to you, and will venture to do so the first opportunity that offers, hoping that there is nothing wrong in so doing. Your obedient servant, WM. P. RoGEnS, Acting ]Jliaster, Gornmctn ding U. S. Schooner lVilliam Bacon. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Phinney, U. S. Nary, Commanding U. S. schooner Racer, of capture of two men while crossing Potomac River. U. S. SCHOONER RACER, Off Aquia Creek-, September 17, 18(12. SIR: I send you in arrest, under the following circumstances, two men calling themselves William L. Taylor and Lewis: Having observed boats nuder suspicious circumstances on the Mary- land shore, I have kept a bright lookout for them in the daytime, sus- pecting that they would endeavor to pass goods over the river. On visiting the shore, I ascertained from iiegroes that goods were being carried over at night when opportunity occurred. ,Since then I have had my boats at night constantly engaged on guard duty, sending par- ties on shore to scout the country, and made arrangements to seize th Page 89 OPERATIONS (YN THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 89 next arrival of goods that should appear. Last night the leather trunk, marked 11. H. Posey, which I send you, was found in the woods, partially concealed, by my scouting party, with the contents as encl~osed; nothing of any apparent value. This morning the two men now sent you were observed crossing in a small skilL My boat immediately put off to iiitercept them, and compelling their return, took them under arrest on the bank of the river. I had previously taken possession of a boat found near where these men were arrested, which, on seeing, they confessed was their own. I send these men, the trunk, and the boat, that you may dispose of them as you may see fit. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALVIN PHINNEY, Acting Master, (Join man ding. Commodore ilAnwooD, Commanding U. S. Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Acting Master Strect, U. S. Nary, temporarily commwn ding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, regarding tke clearing of ]JiEathias Pojut. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Off Piney Point, September 17, 1862. Sm: In regard to your communication of yesterday, on clearing Mathias Point, 1 would say that I do not think it can be done with the Bells crew, as half of the men would have to remain on board to cover those on shore. I propose to have a steamer stationed (as per draw- ing *), one above, the other below, the pointone to cover the road above, the other to cover the cleared laud below, to prevent tbe approach of the enemy. It will require some time, and to do the work effectually it will require 75 contrabands (with axes for the same), 5 bales of oakum, 2 barrels tar, and 15 gallons turpentine. I am, sir, ready at any time, when ordered, to undertake the expedi- tion. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant W. T. STREET, Acting ifaster, Commanding. Lieutenant-Conmmander E. P. MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. $. Jacob Bell, regarding suppression of trcqflc between Maryland and Virginia and destruction of works on lliliatltias Point, Va. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Off Piney Point, September 18, 1862. SIR: I arrived this morn.ing at 11 a. in., and respectfully submit the following report: I find several refugees on St. Georges Island, driven from Virginia, an(l who intend to live on the island. I have every reason to believe they are Union men and will engage in no trade contraband. Not found Page 90 90 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw has beeii relieved by the (Jurrituck; he proceeds to Washington to consult you. I enclose you a report of the Jacob Bell in my absence; also report of Acting [Volunteer] Lieu- tenant Hays, of the Satellite, the duplicate lists, etc. The works on Mathias Point will take about three days and require the enclosed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. ~. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. llxRwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, off Piney Point, September 17, 1862. Sin: Since you left I have been actively engaged in preventing traffic from Maryland to Virginia. Saturday night I sent the cutter, under the charge of Acting Ensign George E. McConnell, to reconnoiter St. Georges Island. lie found a large number of refugees upon the island that had escaped from Virginia. Thinking it advisable to umiake a reconnoissance up the creeks and inlets, both on the Maryland and Virginia~ shores, I accordingly got underway on Sunday morning and stood over to Virginia, below Ragged Point, and sent the cutter with six men, under the command of McConnell, up Jacksons Creek, with instructions to tow out any boats that might be made available for crossing the river, He proceeded up both Jacksons and Gainors [Gardners] creeks, but found nothing worth bringing off~ Standing down the river I picked up a yawl boat with five men, four of them being furnished with passes from the Bremen consul at Richmond. Then I landed at Piney Point. I have the boat, but the men I paroled to go on the island. Having obtained information that letters were sent from St. Inigoes post-office to Virginia, I went around to St Marys River and anchored at Priests Point [Md.]. Together with Mr. Anderson I went to the post- office, but found no letters for Virginia, or any illegal transactions in the vicinity. I have had the vessels at this station busily employed from Ragged Point to the mouth of the river in looking after small boats or trading vessels. I have painted the ship from stem to stern. Yesterday I picked up four contrabands who say they are from Virgimmia, but from appear- ances I take themn to be from Maryland. Colonel Code came on board yesterday; two of his negroes ran off, and [he] visited me to look after them. I think these are his. Last night 1 sent a spy on St. Georges Island dressed in rebel uniform, with very good success. Took him off this morning at 9 a. nu., when I stood over for Virginia to Yeocomico River, taking a pilot with i~me. 1 have been up all the branches of the same, taken five prizes (small boats); was met by a party of cavalry; opened fire on themn from the vessel and drove themn oIL The cutter received several shot. The gig was under the charge of Mr. McConnell, with Mr. Anderson as volunteer; the cutter under Mr. Ilodson. They have also taken a seine 70 fathoms long. I have seven boats in all. What shall I do with them ~ I now have them hauled up at Piney Point. In regard to the tug Pacific, she is lying here, totally minfit for use, her boilers being plugged in several places and liable to blow out at amuy time. I can make no use of her Page 91 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 91 Your communications I received at 6:30 this evening, and send this off in haste. Jam, sir, your obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Acting Master and Executive Officer. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, [September 18, 1862.] SIR: Regarding the destructioii of Math ias Point, it will take at I propose per drawi least three (lays. to station vessels as ng,* above and below the point to cover the road above, and the cleared land below, to prevent the approach of the enemy. It will require about 80 contra- bands, 5 bales of oakum, 2 barrels of tar, 15 gallons of turpentine. Pickets will be thrown off from the gunboats, and a moderate shelling of the point before landing. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and A djutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. SATELLITE, Potomac Flotilla, September 15, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to acknowledge the receipt of yonr order of the 10th, an(i, in compliance therewith, have reported to Commodore liar- wood and taken command of the Satellite this day. Very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, PETER hAYS, Volunteer Lieutenant Comm qnding Steamer Mtelkte. (}WEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Miaster Shankland, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Curri- tuck to assume command of Station 9, Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, September 18, 1862. SIR: You will take charge of Station 9, from Smiths Point to Rap- l)allannock River. You can go up the latter-namei river as far as you (leem necessary for any purpose of a(lvantage to the Government. By order of the commodore: V cry respectfully, yonr obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and A djntant Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master W. F. SHANmu~AND, Com?nanding Currituck. Not found Page 92 92 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Instructions from Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander MicOrca, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Belt, relative to ]Iiathias Point expedition. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 19, 1862. SIR: I have given instructions to the master of the Dragon to report himself to you. You will not detain him longer than is necessary for carrying out your instructions. Report progress by the first opportunity. I send copies of a general order in reference to enlistments which are to be distributed to the commanders of vessels of the Potomac Flotilla. Are you in want of the combustible material which I intended you should have taken with you l I particularly desire that the work should be conducted with caution, but thoroughly. The Pacific having been chartered by the Army and only temporarily attached to the Potomac Flotilla will be returned to the Army imme- diately. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOn, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commandinq U. S. S. Jacob Bell, regarding captures and the release of schooner Pilot. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, off Piney Point, September 19, 1862. SIR: Your dispatch of to-day has this moment been received, and the general order regarding enlistments, which I will send out in the morning. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw left for Washington this morning. The Delaware left this afternoon to search for the vessel spoken of in Port Tobacco Bay [River]. I shall leave for Washington some time during the day, as soon as I receive answer to your coii- siderations regarding the coal wharves. I have a prisoner, 18 boxes of goods, 20 sacks of wheat, and other articles captured last night, which I will bring up with me to-morrow with reports. The schooner Pilot, reported as a prize, I have examined and find nothing to sanction her capture, so have released her under oath from the captain. My dispatches regarding the material for Mathias Point were sent per Freeborn this morning. I am, sir, very respectfully, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander, A 4~jutant. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD Page 93 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 93 Report of Corn utodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commaudiug Potomac Flotilla, urging measures Jor the suppression of smuggling. COM1~IA~DANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 22, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to inform the Department that from various concur- rent proofs I am satisfied that vessels are cleared from Baltimore aiid goods Consigned to C. (ii. Spalding, of Chaptico, Md., which are princi- 1)ally intended to be smuggled into Virginia. This is all operation beyond my reach, as it is covered by regular papers. 1 therefore refer the subject to the Department, in the hope that some measures may be taken in the proper quarter to remedy the ab use. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, regarding the proceedings of his command to September 21, 1862. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 22, 1862. SIR: Herewith I have the honor to submit a report of proceedings of Potomac Flotilla to September 21, 1862: Jacob Bell, station F, Lieutenant- Commander MicCrea, and adjutant. Made a reconnoissance on St. Georges Island; found a number of refu- gees from Virginia; examined Jacksons and Gainor [Gardners] creeks, picked up a boat with five men, four furnished with passes from Breinen consul at Richmond. Landed them at Piney Point. Five men at St. Georges Island paroled. Heard that letters were sent to Virginia from St. Inigoes post-office; examined, found none. Boats cruise at night from Ragged Point to the mouth of river. Picked up four contraband s, lauded them; they were from Maryland. Jacob Bell entered Yeocomico River; captured five small boats; opened upon by a body of cavalry; drove them off with shell and grape; boats received several shots. Took a seine 70 fathoms long. Took seven small boats in all; destroyed by order of Lieutenant-Commander McCrea. Twentieth instant, captured schooner Chapel Point, up Port Island [Tobacco River] Bay, referred to in letter from Secretary of the Navy under date 15th instailt. Also captured three boats off Swan Point, loaded with goods going to Virginia, four white men and some contrabands. Boats destroyed and goods and prisoners forwarded to navy yard. Prisoners sent to provost-marshal. Freeborn, Station U, Lieutenant- Commander Magaw.Burned schooner Arctic in the Great Wicomico [Va.]. Reports two companies of the enemy between Coan River and the Great Wicomico, seen by launch in crnising, 22d. Delaware arrived at navy yard yesterday, bringing the prize schooner Chapel Point, spoken of above. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant. ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy Page 94 94 OPERATiONS ON TIlE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore 1Jarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, regarding seizure of a schooner by U. S. S. Delaware, Acting Vol- unteer Lieutenant Foster, U. S. Navy, commanding. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 22, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to inform you that a vessel answering the descrip- tion contained in Mr. Shuns letter to General Wadsworth was taken by the Delaware on Saturday last in Port Tobacco River. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Foster was informed that she had been employed a few days before in transporting rebel troops across the river. At the time she was seized there were no persons or goods on board of her. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] ALEXANDRiA, September 7, 1862. SIR: I wrote you some time since respecting the number of boats crossing the Potomac from various points in Maryland. I have been informed to-day that there is a small, flat, schooner- rigged boat constantly plying from Port Tobacco to Upper Machodoc Creek, Virginia, with mails and passengers. That boat was built here and is owned by a man by the name of Bradshaw, who is now and has been for a long time absent from the city. She is a singularly rigged boat with a very short foremast, and when once seen would always be knowi. I am also informed that there is a small sioop, painted white, engaged in the same business from Cobbs Point to Virginia. Those fellows know all the gunboats and revenue cutters and keep out of their way. I have written to the Secretary of the Navy to-day. There is a Captain Downing here in a propeller who knows those boats and says lie could capture them if authorized to do so his vessel is now in the employ of the Government. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. SHINN. Brigadier-General WADSWORTH, Washington. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding limits of his command. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 22, 1862. SIR: The limits of the Potomac Flotilla commence at the south entrance of the Pianatank and include that river as well as the Rap- pahannock. Your attention is called to these points. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HAnwoon Commandant Navy Yard, Washington Page 95 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC ANI) RAPPAHANNOCK. 95 General report of Conunoclore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 23, 1862. SIR: I have received your letter of the 22d, defining the limits of the Potomac Flotilla, and your telegram of this morning to scud the light- est draft gunboat 1 have which is in good order for duty to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee; also the Stepping Stones when ready. I shall dispatch the Delaware immediately to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee. She has just completed her repairs and would have been this morning at her station on the river but for the inexcusable absence of the commanding officer, Mr. Foster. I shall be obliged to send her in command of her executive officer. The work is going on on board the Stepping Stones day and night to meet the orders of the Department. I hope the information which I forward to-day from a reliable source ~vill be my excuse for requesting that the flotilla under my command may not be materially diminished or changed. I have endeavored to systematize matters so that the important points will be covered, the earthworks thrown up by the enemy last year rendered unavailable should he attempt to occupy them, and the cover destroyed. The knowledge among the officers of the flotilla of persons and local- ities is valuable, and I would suggest that until the crossing of the river with recruits and stores is effectually checked, it is desirable to have as few changes as possible, the vessels being barely enough to preserve the police of the river, and requiring frequent repairs. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting information regarding illegal traffic. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY-YARD, Washington, September 23, 1862. SIR: I can not vouch for the entire reliability of the person from whom the following information is derived. I have reason to believe that the information itself is in the main correct, and as the informant, Mr. Carrico, was formerly attached to the police in Wasbington) it will be easy to ascertain how far he may be trusted as a detective to watch and report movements of conspirators and contrabandists in the section where lie resides. It is very desirable at this time that the operations conducted by citi- zens of Maryland under cover of regular clearances from the custom- house should be stopped. I therefore respectfully request that the cooperation of the military authorities may be invited by the Depart- ment, as I have felt it my duty not to encourage interference with the citizens on shore by parties from the flotilla. At Newport [Md.], near Blossom Point, is a large store from which goods and passengers are regularly carried over to the Virginia shore. A small sloop, the only one which runs between Alexandria and BIos- sons Point, clears regularly for fruit, iut while down carries goods and passengers across Page 96 96 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. A regular commissioned officer of the rebel Army, named Walter A. Bowie, is recruiting in Prince Georges County. He is harbored by a man named Cracroft, near Woo dyille [Md.]. Mr. Carrico, the informant, lives near Woodville. Samuel Silvey and John Estep live near Cracroft; are both Union men, but dare not avow it. The judge of this district is cognizant of the presence of the rebel recruiting officer and would cause his arrest, but is intimidated by pop- ular sentiment. Mr. Carrico states that he himself always expresses the strongest secessionist principles to cloak his Union sentiments. He says lie knows there will be a strong effort made between this and the early part of October by a large body of men to go into Virginia to escape the draft, and take with them everything they possibly can. The points of crossing will be Mathias Poimit, Blossom Point, Leonard- town, etc. The merchants at Leonardtown are laying in large stocks of goods to send over; they have already laid in five stocks of goods this season instead of one, as usual. Mr. Carrico offers to go to Richmond, if required, or perform any serv- ice in his power. If wanted at any time, he may be heard from by addressing Mr. Joseph L. Carrico, Woodville post-office, Prince Georges County, Md. In case of communicating with him, address as above, telling him he will find a letter at Horse Head post-office, Prince Georges County, Md., where his movements would not be so liable to detection. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOoD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON ~XELLE8, .ASecretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, U. S. S. Jacob Bell, regarding the seizure of the schooner Southerner and affairs on the lower Potomac. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, off Piney Point, September 23, 18G2. Sin: Yesterday the Wyandank left her station to go to Coan River for the schooner Southerner. At 5 p. m. she came up to Piney Point with the said schooner in tow, having taken her without any trouble. They found her 5 miles up the river; did not succeed in getting her sails. I have h~r anchored under Piney Point and have hoisted both canoes upon her deck, ready to go up. I have also three men and a girl (con- trabands) from Smiths Poimit, V a., with a fine sailboat that will do for the seine. The Resolute came up last night out of water and coal. I directed her to anchor, and this morning she filled up with coal from a passing schooner. I supplied her with a breaker of water and at 11 a. m. sent her to her station. She has left a sick luau to be sent to the hospital. All quiet below. Yesterday morning I sent the Teaser around to St. Marys River. Upon her return she was obliged to blow off steam and line her shaft. In the afternoon I sent her up to Mr. Coltomis for the seine, but, arriv- ing there too late, Captain Sheridan obtained permission of the Satellite to cruise off the Wicomico during the night. Captain 5, found som Page 97 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 97 goods on shore intended for Virginia. He also took a boat tbat they were using for crossing the river. On his way down to-day he picked lip a boat off Komini Bay with seven refugees, three of whom [were] foreigners and were supplied with passports. These I landed at Piney Point; the balance I send you, together with the prize Southerner, and small boats that have been taken by the Teaser. 1 wish to call your attention to vessels trading oii the Marylaiid shore with merchandise, in regard to what goods shall be passed and in what quantities. This will have a tendency to check in a great measure the trade across the river, This morning I overhauled the cargo of a vessel bound to Bretons Bay, the iuost of which I believe will find its way into Virginia, but as the vessel had a proper clearance from Baltimore, with invoice, mani- fest, bills of lading, etc., all right, I was coini)elled to give her a pass. As I am about to close this the U S. S. Currituck came up for instruc- tions in regard to boats passing from the eastern shore of Maryland to Virginia with passes given by Captain iDungan, of the revenue cntter Hercules, The men in these boats say that they have permission to go over Thr their families, but when taken have contraband goods on board. I have given Captain Shankland instructions to detain all such men and boats and not regard any passes but those of Commodore A. A. Harwood until further orders. hoping that you may devise some means by which I may be governed in ~)assi11g goods, both in kind and (Juantity, I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedieut servant, WM. T. STREET, Executive Officer, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander P. MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding prize schooner Southerner and other matters. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 24, 1862. Sin: The Teaser came up last night with a prize schooner, the South- erner, which the Wyandank took possession of in Coan iRiver, Virginia, on the 92d; she had beeii stripped of her sails. A fine sailboat also has been captured by boats of the flotilla. Act- Pig Ensign Sheridan, of the Teaser, cruising off the Wicomico, took a boat which had been used for crossing the river also a quantity of goods intended for Virginia. He picked up a boat off Komini Bay with seven refugees, three of whom were foreigners and supplied with passes, and were landed at Piney Point. lt is important that some limit should be fixed at this time by the l)LoPcr authorities both as to the quantity and kind of goods which shall be allowed to pass into certain ports of the Potomac River from which the contraband trade is extensively carried on. Acting Master Street reports to Lieutenant-Commander McCrea that on the 23d lie overhauled a vessel bound to Bretons Bay, the greater part of the cargo of which he believes is intended to be run into Vir- ginia. But this vessel had a regular clearance from Baltimore with invoices, manifests, and bills of lading, all in accordance with law. NWRYOL5 Page 98 98 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Acting Master Shankland, of the Curritack, reports that boats pass- ing from the eastern shore of Maryland to Virginia show passes from a captain of the U. S. revenue cutter (name not given) [ifercules]. The men in them say that they have permission to go over for their families, but, when takeii, have contraband goods on board. Passes thus given, I presume, are not authorized by the Treasury Department, as they conflict with your orders to maintain the strictest blockade and with the Potomac pass lately instituted by you. Enclosed is a list of the refugees, contrabands, and goods brought up by the Teaser. They will be disposed of as usual in the coarse of the day. I have written to I)istrict Attorney Carrington with regard to the accumulation of prize goods which are daily deteriorating in value while they remain at the yard. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARwoOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Jion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure.] List of r(fugees, coutrabands, aud goods brought up by the U. S. S. Teaser September 23. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 24, 1862. Refugees.Edward Furuey, George Melvin, Edward Wilson, and Henry Adams, all from Richmond; residences in Marylaiiid. Contrabands from Smiths Point, Va. James Barnes, Neil Davis ,John H. Jones, and Columbus Jabber. Goods.Forty-eight reams of letter paper; one side of calfskin, one of sheep, and a quantity of gray cloth. Very respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD. Instructions from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Rogers, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner William Bacon, regarding schooner George If. Berry, and suppression of communication between Virginia and Maryland. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 24, 1862. SIR: Your letter of the 17th instant was duly received. 1. You were right iu permitting the schooner Berry to pass, as at the time the naval Potomac passes had not been in force long enough to authorize the detention of vessels furnished with proper clearances. At this time the circular,* a copy of which is enclosed, is in full force. 2. In answer to your question as to what is to be done with the con- trabands in your hands, you will deliver them up to the nearest mili- tary authorities, and if they decline receiving them, forward them to this yard, with a list of their names. 3. Your utmost vigilance is required in preventing the transportation of rebel recruits or of provisions for the Virginia shore. I have every reason to believe that when the draft commences in Maryland the crossing over at night will increase. ~Not found Page 99 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 99 4. Look out for Mr. Spearman aiid catch his pungy if you can, but you will not do this if you keep your vessel directly oft the creek on the contrary, you should depend np~n your boats, taking care not to risk them for nothiug, and to be with your vessel where you can readily pick them up. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANUW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, etc. Acting Master WILLJA1XI P. RoGERS, Commanding U. S. Schooner William Bacon, D Po Station - , tomac Ricer. Order of the Secretary of the Nary to Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding strict enforcement of blockade. NAVY I)EPARTMENT, Sg}te?nber 25, 18G2. SIR: I have received your letter of the 24th instant, reporting the proceedings of the flotilla and in reference to trade with the Virginia shore. You will allow no vessel to import or export merchandise at any l)art of the blockaded country. Alexandria is the only port open for geiieral traffic within the limits of your command. You will not regard what are called permits from any officer except the Secretary of the Treasury, War, or Navy, as authorizing the ingress or egress of any vessel in violation of the blockade. There must be no favoritism or license given to any one or more of our countrymen to traffic within the blockaded region, or to import or export merchandise that would be justly considered as evasive of the blockade and in bad faith. No officer of the Army or Navy is authorized to grant permits, and you will seize all vessels engaged in illegal traffic. Such vessels as under the authority of the War or Navy Depart. ments may be engaged to carry supplies to the Army or Navy will take no return cargo from the territory blockaded. The bloikade is intended to interdict all trade whatever with the country blockaded during its continuance, and should be rigidly enforced. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Secretary of the Navy. Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc., Washington, D. C. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander Franklin U command of First Division. , . S. Navy, to assume ORDER.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 25, 18G2. SIR: You will assume command of the First Division of the Potomac Flotilla, comprising the district from Wicomico River to Rappahan- nock, inclusive. The following vessels are under your command, viz: Wyandank, Resolute, Currituck, Eureka, Matthew Vassar, Reliance Page 100 100 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. You will station these vessels as you deem necessary to carry out the the object of the flotilla. All requisitions and matters pertaining to your division will be for- warded through you, with your remarks to me. None others will be noticed. You will inform me weekly of the proceedings of your division. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant- Commander S. R. FRANKLIN, Commanding U. S. S. Aroostook ,.Potomac Flotilla. P. S.Jacob Bell and Ella are now on detached service, nuder orders of the adjutant of the flotilla. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, to assume com- mand of Second Division. ORDER.] NAVY YARD, WASIIINIfTON, Seytember 25, 1862. SIR: You will assume command of the Secoiid Division of the Potoniac Flotilla, comprising the district from Budds Ferry to Wicom- ico iRiver, iuclusive. The following vessels are under your command, viz, Yankee, Satellite, Racer, William Bacon, Civur de Lion, Teaser. You will station these vessels as you deem necessary to carry out the ob~jects of the flotilla. All requisitions and matters pertaining to your (livision will be for- warded through you, with your remarks, to me. None others will be noticed. You will inform me weekly of the proceedings of your division. \Tery respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MAGAW. Commanding U. S. S. Frceborn. P. S.Jacob Bell and Ella are on detached service, under orders of the adjutant of the Potomac Flotilla. Instructions from Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander ]Jiliagaw, U. S. Navy, com- manding U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn, regarding destruction of Confed- erate defenses. ~ AVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 25, 1862. SIR: I have this day directed Lieutenant-Commander Franklin, of the Aroostook, to relieve you of your duties as president of the board of examiners now in session. I wish you to proceed with as little delay as possible to organize a party for the destruction of such of the deserted batteries on the Virginia side of the river as may remain in any degree available for purposes of offense Page 101 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 101 I wish also a reconnoissance made of Mathias Point, and the wood on it destroyed, if, upon close examination, the measure is of sufficient importance in a military point of view. Under any circumstances you will take care to ascertain whether, when necessary, the promontory can be effectually enfiladed, and to clear away, if practicable, any obstruction to a raking fire from the gun- boats, should an attempt be made by the rebels to establish a battery on the point. I wish to know as nearly as possible how far the marsh, which I am told occupies the narrowest part of the point, diminishes the proba- bility of the tratisportation of such ordnance as might seriously impede the navigation of the river. All the materials required for the purposes named will be furnished if they have not been already provided. In addition to the wood axes you will require a sufficient number of pickaxes and shovels for leveling earthworks. I need hardly caution you not to expose any part of your force unnecessarily. Take every precaution to guard against surprise, every means to clear the way for your men to work, to cover their operations, and to bring them off safely in case of being attacked by superior force. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDw. A. ilAnwooD, Corn modore, Commandinq Potomac Flotilla. Lienten ant-Commander SAML. MAG-Aw, Conunanding U. S. S. Freeborn, Potomac Flotilla. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Vary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding blockade runners. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 25, 1862. Siu: The Department is informed that Mr. Plunkett, at Leonard- town, Md., has boats which lie uses to convey news and rebels from Maryland to Virginia. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, and Commandant iVavy Yard, Washington. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding suspicious residents of Maryland. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 26, 1862. SIR: I have received your letter of the 25th, relating to Mr. Plunkett. His name, as well as that of several other individuals on the Mary- land shore, has already been reported to me, and orders have been given to the proper section of the flotilla to watch his movements Page 102 102 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I hope the proper military authorities will be able to do something to prevent the great accumulation of goods and the presence of rebel recruiting parties on the Maryland side. I have been preparing a paper to submit to General Wadsworth, naming several individuals on the Maryland shore who require looking after in time. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. IJAUWOOD, Commodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding schooner George H. Berry. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 26, 18G2. SIR: It has been reported to me that Mr. H. P. Parker, surveyor of the port of Accomac Court-House (eastern shore of Virginia), granted to the schooner George 11. Berry (George N. West, master), 81~ tons register, an enrollment and coasting license on the 25th day of June, 1862, for the term of one year. She was boarded bythe IT. S. schooner [William] Bacon aboveMonroes Creek, on the Virginia shore, on the 15th of this month, and as the arrangement with regard to the naval Potomac passes had just been instituted at that time, but had not been fully inaugurated, the schooner was allowed to pass, bound, according to 1mev masters account, to Wash- ington. She had on board a small quantity of produce, and from 600 to 700 bushels of oats. There were no other suspicious circumstances attending the move ments of this vessel than her nearness to the Virginia shore, and this seems to have been unavoidable, as it had fallen calm through the night, and the ebb tide drifted the schooner into that position where she was obliged to anchor. My object iii writing this letter is to suggest to you that no notice that I know of has yet been given from the Treasury Department declaring the license granted by subordinates inoperative, and that any doubt upon the subject will lead to vexatious complications. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. IJARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Instructions from Lieutenant- Commander ATe Crea, U. S. Navy, command- ing U. S. S. Jacob Bell, to Acti~~g Master Street, U. S. Navy, executive officer. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, September 28, 1862. SIR: During my absence you will assume command of this vessel, carrying out all general orders of the commander in chief and my local orders Page 103 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 103 No permits are to be granted to persons on vessels not properly sup- plied with sustaining evidence to demand them. To-morrow, from the time the summary court convenes, you can order the prisoner, Melville, his rations, but not until then. Yoa will carefully put in the log book the time the court convened, the time adjourned, and for what purl)05e. Supervision of the district or station will be in your charge until the arrival of a superior officer, when you will report in person to him. No inland expeditions will be made to Virginia. Refugees with proper passes (foreigners particularly) must be landed on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. Very respectfully, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant, Commanding. WILLIAM T. STREET, Executive Officer, U. S. S. Jacob Bell. Report of Lieutenant McGrea, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, foruarding prisoner and articles captured by that vessel. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, September 28, 1862. SIR: I send you, per steamer Ella, William Allison, captured by boats of this vessel while crossing from St. Georges Island to Virginia, hav- ing in charge the following: Four packages and eight boxesi pack- age containing pants and coat, 1 package containing tea, 1 package containing blacking, 1 package containing matches, 1 box calico, 1 box marked carbonate soda, 1 box marked mustard, 1 box marked essence coffee 1 box marked solidified lye, 1 box marked variegated soap, 1 box marked brown soap, 1 box marked pepper. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCHEA, Lieutenant, Commanding. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Letter from Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, requesting increase of force. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAvy YARD, Washington, September 29, 1862. IDEAR SIR: In consequence of sickness and desertion, we shall be short of men for the vessel fitting out, as well as to fill vacancies in the tiotilla. Please order about a hundred, with a due proportion of seamen, as soon as possible. Port Royals calking finished yesterday; no time to paint her outside. I will put the paint on board of her. She can go as soon as her ord- nance stores are on ~)oard, but her paymaster is not fit for service, and her doctor has not yet returned from leave. Yours, truly, ANDW. A. ilARwooD, Commodore. LIon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Page 104 104 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. You will remember that the Wyandotte is condeiniied for outside work. Shall I do anything to her before I order her to join Lee. Pray dont strip me too bare. I have heard to day of an armed craft (smug- gler) in the river, and I should like to keep a sprinkling of regulars to keep the police of the Potomac. Remember you have extended the ground, while the force is diminished. Yours, A.A.II. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding arrests made an(i suggesting measure for checking continued breach of blockade. COMMANDANTS OFFICE NAVY YARD Washington, September 29, 18G2. SIR: Lieutenant-Commander McCrea reports the arrest of two men Ilarne(l Benjamlim lirookbank and Ignatins Owens taken in the Wicomico River in the attempt to cross into Virginia. No other particulars are given but that they had with them twelve cases of goods, viz, 4 large boxes marked matches, 4 small boxes marked blacking, 1 box marked -{7 reams, I box no mark, 1 box 60 pair womens F. M. bcots, 1 box soap, all directed to B. W. Sly, Washing- tomi, D C.; also of the arrest of three refugees, Charles Gould,i).S. (3ardnei-, Charles Lewis, who were crossing from Virginia to Maryland. Time men have been sent to the provost-marshal, and the goods will be turned over to the district court as usual. I beg leave to mention that the places of confinement in Washing- ton are so crowded that the general in command of the military dis- trict informs me that he is embarrassed with tIme numbers of prisoners in custody, and hence umany persons have been liberated who under other circumstances would have been treated with more rigor. General Wadsworth is perfectly willing, I believe, to detain any who may be designated as dangerous persons by the naval authorities, but these persons caught in smuggling are not, 1 observe, generally consid- ered in that light. These contrabandists are from a disaffected portion of Maryland, ammd are not only engaged in forbidden traffic, but in recruiting the rebel forces and in carrying information to the rebels. Such men should be freed where they are caught, if freed at all, as a transient visit to Washington puts them to no special inconvenience, and affords them a favorable opportunity for gathering intelligence and hatching new amid more secure plans of operation. If it were a certaimmty that every man caught crossing from the Mary- land to the Virginia shore would be subject to close confinemuent for a definite period, not less than six months for instance, it would produce an effectual check to the violation of tIme blockade. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Endorsement.] The contrabandists caught smnuggling or running blockade shomild be (letained. [WELLES. Page 105 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 105 Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the destruction of Confederate magazines at Lower Shipping Point. COMMANDANTS OFFICE NAVY YARD, Washington, September 30, 18G2. SIR: Lieutenant-Commander Magaw reports the destruction of the rebel bomb-proof magazines at Lower Shipping Point, which I had instructed him to blow up. They were seven in number and the work was found heavier than anticipated. A small body of rebel cavalry made its appearance, but (lispersed upon the discharge of a volley of musketry from our side. William Benson, of the Satellite, was wounded by the discharge of his own piece, which he was handling carelessly. He caine up in the Dragon and has been sent to the hospital. I have the honor to be, with great respect, ANDXv. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Report of Commodore Niarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding seizure of sloop Thomas Reilly, for breach of blockade. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 2, 1362. SIR: The Eureka arrived this morning, bringing to the yard the sloop Thomas Reilly, seized by the Freeborn, Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, for violating the blockade. George Saunders, of Missouri, Samuel Hunt and Richard Hunt, of Maryland, were taken in her. Acting Ensign J. J. Brice brought up with him an old launch which had been shortened and patched up and converted into a sailboat. She was taken by the Eureka in the act of running the blockade, on the 1st instant, at the mouth of Quantico Creek, Virginia, and manned by three colored persons, viz, John Douglass, William Saunders, Benjamin Atkins; when arrested they had concealed about their persons arms and newspapers. The Eureka also brought up Henry W. Haack, a German. He showed a certificate of his nationality from the consul at il3remen, and a pass from the rebel General [J. H.] Winder, and has been released. The prisoners have been placed in the custody of the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Nary to Commodore Jiarwood, U. S. Nary, eOmman(iing Potomac Flotilla, regarding tra~Jie in wood on the Potomac River. NAvY 1)EPARTMENT, Oc~obe r 2, 1362. SIR: The subject of allowing parties to bring wood from the Vir- ginia shore within our lines is referred to you to act at discretion. I Page 106 106 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. permission is granted it should be accompanied with suitable restric- tions, and all prudent guaranties should be required. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Coiiiinodore A. A. HA~WOo~, Secretary of the Navy. (Jommaudaut Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Phelps, U. S. Navy, commandinq U. S. Coast Survey steamer Coruin, of circumstances connected with expedi- tion to house of Dr. Stewart. IT. S. S CORWIN Potomac River, October 2, 1862. SIR: Your letter dated September 30, enclosing a report of Dr. iR. II. Stewart, was this instant received and I respectfully state that with one exception the (loctor is entirely in error. On the return of the boat, the officer in charge reported the whole affair, and immediately afterwards I thoroughly investigated the mat- ter, and the following is a full report of the circumstances attending the case: On the 23d ultimo I anchored in Nanjemoy IReacli about mid-channel, and about three-fourths of a mile from a honse on the Yirginia shore, which 1 had understood was untenanted an(l belonged to a Dr. Stewart, a wealthy and influential secessionist, and was used as a depot for illicit traffic. The windows and doors appeared to be open at all hours, and I failed to discover, with a spyglass, any signs of life about the place during the day. Abont 11 p. in., on September 24, several suspicious lights were observed from this steamer in the neighborhood of this house, and about 9 p. in., on the 25th, a rocket was sent up in its vicinity. The next morning I dispatched an armed boat in, and tIme following is a correct account of the affair as reported by the officer, whose state- ment was fully substantiated by the investigation: On the landing of the party they discovered two or three negroes, and as they approached the door, which was open, were met by a mulatto woman, who invited them in and informed the officers that the honse was owned by Dr. Robert Stewart, and at the commencement of the war the family had moved with imearly all of their effects to the hall, situated about 1 mile inland, and that she was left in charge as housekeeper. After cautioning the party not to molest anything the officer pro- ceeded to examine the rooms, fin ding only a few pieces of furniture and a few miscellaneous articles of little or no value. In the library he dis- covered a lot of blue lights and signal fires, an old spyglass, and a parcel of old ragged novels, reports, and periodicals scattered over the floor, and in the cellar, the door of which was open, about one dozen sacks of wheat ready for transportation, firearms, three kegs of nails, and a barrel of oil a Baltimore. , pparently, by its marks, recently received from In a short time the party returned to the boat, when the housekeeper appeared with a picture, which she claimed to have the right to dispose of, and asked $2.50 for it. The officer offered her that amount in United States currency, which she refused and accepted a $5 Confederate note Page 107 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 107 which the officer had obtained as a curiosity at West Point, Va. Imme- diately after this transaction Mrs. Stewart rode up in an excited state, dismounted, seized the picture, reprimanded the woman for daring to sell the Yankees anything, and informed the purchaser that he should not have it at any price, and for several minutes refused to return the note. The officer next enquired if she would not sell him a few chick- ens and eggs, when she commenced a violent tira(le against the United States aimd tim Yankees, and stated that if she was overflowing with provisions and a Yankee ship was starving she would not sell them a dollars worth; that she and her husband were secessioiiists and she gloried in it, and iDr. Stewart was the most violent secessionist in the State and she thanked God for it, and if they sold the Yankees a cents worth they would consider themselves disloyal to the South. The boat shoved off and returned on board, when it was discovered that one of the party had brought off the spyglass and a few ragged novels. I immediately had an examination made and the articles returned to the place from whence they had been taken. Reyond the above nothing was taken, no depredations or improper acts committed. The doors and windows of the house were open and no objections were made to the entering of the party or to the examimma- tion of the premises. No locks were broken or doors forced, neither were there any sheets or pillowcases taken or seen by any of the party, but the whole affair was conducted in an orderly and proper manner. You but do me justice when you assure me of your belief that I would not countenance or permit any act tending to disgrace or bring discredit on our flag and service. I will report for your information that, since the above, I have been informed that Stewarts house is a regular headquarters for smugglers, and that on the imight of the 21st ultimno a man landed there from Port Tobacco with a lot of trunks, and Dr. Stewart furnished a wagon to convey him to Port I~oyal [Va.]. The man belonged to the rebel Army. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, Tijos. S. PHELPS, Lieutenant- Commander, U. S. Navy. Commodore A. A. HAROoon, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, rcgarding measures for the prevention of illegal traffic. NAVY DEPARTMENT, October 3, 1862. SIR: Extracts from your communication of the 23d ultimo were sent totheSecretaryofWar,andyourrequestforthecooperationofthe Army in stopping the improper traffic carried on between the Maryland and Virginia shores submitted to his consideration. In reply, he states that on referring the subject to the general in chief, lie suggested that the matter be left entirely to the discretion of the navy officers, General Banks furnishing such nuniber of inemi as may be required omi navy vessels to assist in making captures, and that the War Department had instructed Major-General Banks accordingly. On receiving your letter of the 19th ultimo, the Department wrote to the Secretary of the Treasury in reference to the clearance of vessels from Georgetown [D. C.] without requiring the masters to take the oat Page 108 108 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. of allegiance, aiid is informed iii reply that the collector at that port, as also the collector at Alexandria, has been instructed to administer the oath to masters and owners, etc., before clearing vessels. The Treasury Department has stated that immediate attention would be given to the practice of shipping goods from Baltimore to Chaptico, supposed to be intended to be smuggled into Virginia, which was the -ubject of your letter of the 22d nitimno. Referring to your letter of the 29th ultimo, the I)epartment concnrs with you in the opiniou that the contrabandists caught smuggling and running the blockade should be detained. I am, respectfully, your obedient servaiit GIDEON WELLES, A1ecretary of the Nary. Commodore A. A. HAuwoon, Commandant A~ary Yard, Washington, and Commanding Potomac Elotilla. Order of Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, U. S. Nary, commanding 1 . AS. S. Ella, to Acting Master Shankiand, U. 8. Nary, commanding U. S. S. Currituck, designating limits of his station. U. S. S. ELLA, Off Piney Point, October 3, 1862. SIR: You will assume command of the station from Smiths Point to Piankatank River, inclusive, until relieved by a senior officer. Vessels upon that station will report to you the result of obedience to any orders you may give them, amid you will report in writimig to me as often as prac- ticable your movements and matters pertaining to time station. You will carry out all orders and instructions promptly, and are held respomisible for the same performance of those under your command. There is but one Potomac Flotilla, and all vessels are under the command of Comnmo- dore A. A. ilarwood, commander imi chief. Very respectfully, etc., E. P. MCCREA, Lienten a ut- Commander and Adjutant. Acting Master W. F. SHANKLAND, U. AS. S. Currituck. Report of Acting Master Smith, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. schooner Arletta, regarding the loading of boats in Accotink Creek, Virginia. U. S. MORTAR SCHOONER ARLETTA, Off Alexandria, October 3, 1862. SIR: The longboats (previously referred to) were reported to me by captains of longboats who came to this vessel for passes to the Maryland shore. They report that they can be seen loading nearly every day in Accotink Creek, Virginia. Time lougboats mentioned have never got a naval pass from this vessel. I will find out if they have obtained a clearance from the custom-house. Respectfully, your obedient servant, THO1~I~5 E. SMITH. Acting Master, Commandinq U. S. Schooner Arletta. Commodore ANDREW A. ilAuwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 109 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 109 Report qf Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding needed cooperation of War and Treasury Depart- ments in the suppression of illegal traffic. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY Y~RD, Washington, October 4, 1862. SIR: One of the aids of General Banks called upon me a day or two ago in reference to furnishing soldiers to assist the Navy in making captures, and I then perceived that the whole scope of my views had been misunderstood with regard to the subject of cooperation. We do not want any assistance in maintaining the police of the river, but there are persons along the Maryland shore who are actively employed in assisting in every way their rebel neighbors, and these people the naval arm can not reach; neither can the civil authority, on account of the sympathy of the surrounding population. To be brief, it must be done through the custom-house, by giving notice of extraor- dinary shipment of goods to the ports on the Maryland side of the Potomac, and through the military authorities who can prevent the recruiting of men for the rebel cause, if it be true that this is done in the face of the civil magistrates. I sent a particular list of the persons and places which required surveillance in order to break up the sources of all this troublesome intercourse with Virginia. The flotilla has been vigilant in doing its par~,in arresting parties in crossing, amid if means are taken to prevent the supply of goods from being acenmulated the whole traffic will soon be broken up. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Endorsement.] Write Secretary Treasury, sending extract, and suggesting that Coin- modore ilarwood, commanding flotilla, be advised of any extensive shipments of goods for any place in Maryland on the Potomac. [WELLES. Letter from Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding I~otomac Fl~)till((,to the General in Chief U. S. Army, transmitting copy of letter to Brigadier- General Wadsworth, U. S. Army, regarding measures of cooperation. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, October 4, 1862. Sin: I enclose for the information of the Commanding General the copy of a letter to General Wadsworth which will explain the nature of the assistance required from the Army and the Treasury Depart- ment to put a stop to the supplies of men, goods, etc., which are carried from the Maryland to the Virginia shore. No assistance is required in men on board the vessels of the flotilla, which are fully manned and armed, but such visits by the military authorities to places and surveillance of persons in disaffected districts of Maryland as may put a stop to intercourse with the ~nemy which the naval arm can not reach Page 110 110 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 1 will give all the information in my power bearing on the subject which may suggest the best means of stopping oierations which the draft in Maryland will be likely to stimulate. Be pleased to return the accompanying copy of the letter to General Wadsworth, unless the General in Chief should desire to retain ft. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Com)nod~1e, U. AS~. Navy, Comdg. Yary Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Captain B. B. IRWIN, U. S. Army, Aid-de- Camp to General in Chief [Enclosure.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 26, 1862. GENERAL: I have the satisfaction to inform you that the information forwarded by you to me and to the Navy Department has resulted in tile seizure by the flotilla under my command of the vessel eml)loyed in transporting goods and recruits from the Maryland to the Virginia shore. I shall feel particularly obliged for any hints which your position may enable you to give me which may render the blockade more effective. If, by any means within your power, you can cause a stop to be put to the plans laid in Maryland to recruit the rebel forces and aid in their subsistence and comfort, you will materially further the interests of the C overnment. To this end I take the liberty of giving you, as concisely as the liature of the case will admit, the substance of the various reports with regard to persons and places which can not be reached by the officers of the flotilla. At Newport, near Blossom Point, is a large store, from which goods and passengers are regularly transported to tile Virginia shore. A small sloop, the only one which runs between Alexandria and Blossom Point, clears regularly for fruit, but while down carries goods and passengers across. By the order of the Navy Department, Alexandria is the only port open for general traffic within the limits of my command, which extends to the mouth of the liappahannock and Piankatank rivers. Advantage is reported, you will perceive, to have been taken of this unavoidable exception, and the abuse, as far as the land is concerned, can only be reached by the land forces. A regular commissioned officer in the rebel Army named Walter A. Bowie is said to be recruiting in Prince Georges County, and is har- bored by a man named Cracroft, near Woodville. Mr. Carrico, the itiforinant, lives near Woodville. lIe represents Samuel Silvey and John Estep, two Union men, as residents of the same neighborhood near Cracroft, but as afraid to avow their loyal sentiments. He, Carrico, states that the judge of the district in question is cog- nizant of the presence of the rebel recruiting officer and would order his arrest, but is intimidated by the surrounding disloyal sentiment. He, Carrico, further states that he, him self, always expresses the strongest secessionist principles to cloak his own attachment to the Union. He says he knows that there will be a strong effort made between this and the 1st of October by a large body of men to cross over into Virginia to escape the draft, and take with them all that they possibly can. The points of crossing will be Leonardtown and Blossom and Mathias points Page 111 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 111 The merchants of Leonardtown are laying in stocks of goods to send over. They have already laid in five stocks of goods this season instea(I of one, as usual. They can be supplied by vessels provided with regular clearances from Baltimore and Alexandria. Mr. Carrico was formerly attached to the Washington police, under Mayor Berret. I can not vouch for his entire reliability, nor how far he cati be trusted to watch and report the movements of conspirators and contrabandists in the section where he resides. I have reason to credit much of his information in relation to their operations, from intelligence derived from other sources. He offers to l)erform any service in his power. His address is, Mr. Joseph L. Car- rico, Woodville post-office, Prince Georges County, Md., but as this is a disloyal region, and he wishes, in order to avoid being suspected, that a letter sent to that address may simply inform him that lie will find a communication at Horse Head post-office, Prince Georges County, where lie would not be so liable to be watched. A man by the name of Plunkett, near Leonardtown, has boats which he uses to convey rebels and goods across to Virginia. Biakistone Island.Jn the neighborhood of this island resides a per- son by the name of Colton, who is well known but differently estimated by the officers of the flotilla. There can be no harm in keeping him in view. lie calls himself a Union man, and was appointed an enrolling offi- cer, but declined. He was a gambler by profession; talked of wanting salt, while the officers of the Coast Survey steamer (~orwiu saw three or four sacks in his barn. My informant, Lieutenant-Commander Phelps, of the Gorwin, says he told him that he had a spyglass with which he could see 15 miles up or down the river, and that one of his boats can cross it in forty min- utes; that salt was worth on tIme other side $100 the sack, and the l)oorest whisky $10 the gallon, Maryland, not Confederate money. Captain Phelps says that he spoke unguardedly and betrayed decided secession sympathies. As yet he has not been detected in any illegal act, and came to my office the other day to ask for a passage for himself and daughter, an act which may be either innocence or effrontem-y. Chaptico.Vessels are cleared from Baltimore and goods are con- signed to C. C. Spalding, of Chaptico, Md. These goods are intended evidently for the Virginia market. Spalding, judging by receipts and other incidental evidences, is doing a large business in this line. I believe the firm in Baltimore is a rich one. I would apologize to you for the length of this letter, as I think it probable much of the information may be new to you, but I have felt it a duty to omit no possible chance to prevent operations, which,cou- cocted on shore and covered by regular papers, are beyond my reach. The pungies and other small vessels engaged in the transit of the river are generally manned only by negroes, who are forced into that serv- ice by their masters, who thus keep out of harms way. I have the honor to be, yours, respectfully, ANDW. A. HARwoon, Commodore, etc. Brigadier General JAMEs S. WADSWORTH, Military Governor of the District, etc Page 112 112 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Weekly r(j)ort of Licatenant- (Jonnnauder lllicGrea, U. AS~. Navy, command- ing U. S. S. Jacob Bell. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, October 5, 1862. SW: I respectfully submit my report for the week ending October 5 (Sunday). 1 conferred with Lieutenant-Commander Magaw in passing down the river on Tuesday last. He informed me the work of lestroying the works at Shipping and Cockpit points is progressing, though heavier than he at first supposed. The paymasters have the Wyandank performing the duty directed by the Secretary of the Navy. 1 have seen Mr. B. T. Piowden and have hired his wharf, agreeably to your instructions, paying $140 per month. The Curritack arrived this evening with thirteen contrabands. I ordered them to be given np to the military authorities at Point Look- ont. if not received by them, [to] be put on shore in a loyal district, and then return to her station. I would state that the mortar vessels at Baltimore, if not needed there, would be of great service to carry ont the object of the flotilla, as they could be stationed alternately with the steamers. Regarding the storeship lVyandank I would state tl~at, in myopin- ion, to avoid a complication of matters, two paymasters have charge of the accounts and one charge of the stores. I would suggest that the storeship be placed at the month of the Wicomico River, which is about the center of your command. I wonld state, also, that one l)r. Walton, of Leon ardtown, Md., called npon me at Piney Point an(l stated that many persons in that place wished the contraband trade broken up; that the poorer classes were suffering, and the stores would not sell, save by wholesale and [at] exorbitant prices. Messrs. Haley and Lucas are the principal traders with Virginia, I have heard. Yery respectfully, yonr obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HAiRwoon, Commanding Potomac Elotilla. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Aary, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding desir action of Confederate dejenses, and the capture of 81001) Ann Squires. COMMANDANTS OFFiCE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 5, 1862. SIR: The Second Divisioim of the Potomac Flotilla, under Lieuten- ant-Commander Magaw, has been employed in completing the destruc- tion of the rebel batteries and bombproofs in the neighborhood of his command. This work, which required more labor than was anticipated, will be completed probably to-morrow. I would suggest that no information shall be given in the newspa- pers relating to these operations until they are completed. Lieutenant Commander Magaw reports, October 4, that he sent a party to Dumfries and destroyed the telegraph office and- wires of the line from Occoquan to Richmond, via Fredericksburg Page 113 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPARANNOCK. 113 That on the evening of the 3d he sent Acting Master Plunkett, of the Freeborn, to surprise and arrest Captain John Tayloe, of the Ninth Virginia Cavalry, on leave at his residence, opposite Maryland Point. Captain Tayloc arrived at the yard this morning in the Yankee and was at once placed in the custody of the provost-marshal of this district. On the 1st of October a boat was sent from the U. S. mortar schooner William Bacon, be] on gin g to Lieutenant-Commander Magaws division, which found and seized the sloop Ann Squires, at the head of Wicomico Bay. She hailed from Deals Island, and had on board of her at the time of her seizure two white men, who gave their names as Max Stad- elhofer and J. T. Gilinan, and a free colored man, Joseph Butler. The vessel was laden with contraband goods, and had also a pack- age of letters, most of which appear to be from Chaptico, intended for Richmond. The men have been placed in the custody of the military authorities. The vessel had neither register nor license of any description. The men confessed themselves citizens of Virginia, according to the report of Acting Masters Mate Ripley, who took them, an dthatthey were only waiting for wind to cross the river. Also that there were five others who held shares in the sloop, absent at the time of their seizure. I have separated from a mass of unimportant bills and accounts, principally belonging to Giluman, four papers belonging to Stadelkofer, two of which may deserve the attention of the State Department, and which are herewith appended. The first is a certificate from Edward W. Top, the consul of the city of Bremen, that Max Stadeihofer made oath that he is a native of the Duchy of Baden, and has never taken the oath of allegiance to the United States or to the Confederate States of America. The second is a receipt, not signed, in a German handwriting, for $919 from Mr. Stadelhofer, to buy goods. The inference appears to me plain that consular certificates are abused by foreigners engaged in unlawful trade, who call themselves citizens or aliens, as may best subserve their purposes, and there is reason to believe that this class of persons is largely.engaged in the contraband trade to Virginia. I have the honor to be, with great respect, yonr obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAuwooD, Commodore, Comnwnding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Letter from Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, referring to sloop Ann Squires. NAVY YARD, WASIIIN~TON, October 6, 1862. SIR: Your report with reference to the operations of your division of the flotilla for the last week has been received. I am at present too much occupied to notice them in detail, but have done so to the Navy Department, and avail myself of this opportunity to express my entire satisfaction with the result of your exertions to this time. I hope soon to hear that the destruction of the batteries has been completed. NWRVOL5 Page 114 114 OPERATIONS ON THE PO~POMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCIC. The mail taken on board the Ann Squires had letters containing iml)ortant information. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MA~AW, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Oommodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, referring to information obtained from mail captured with sloop Ann Squires. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 6, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to draw your attention especially to the letters of Dr. J. C. [B. l] Cooke, of Chaptico, Md., which are the most important of those taken in the mail taken on board the Ann Squires. I think these letters will show the kind of cooperation required to put a stop to the intercourse between the Maryland and Virginia shores. They also show the wholesome effects of the regulations made by the Treasury Department to prevent the accumulation and sale of goods for unlawful purposes. It appears to me, however, that the prospect of doubling every day, to use Dr. Cookes phrase, and the sympathy with the rebel cause, will be apt to overcome the scruple of breaking promises. The coming and going of Confederate young strangers at Chaptico seems to have met with little or no impediment. If the draft takes place in the southern counties of Maryland, renewed efforts will be made to cross and carry articles of great necessity over the river. Such men as Dr. B. Cooke, whose sons are in the rebel Army, and whose avowed sentiments are hostile to the Government of the United States, will, I presume, be thought worthy of arrest and detention. His residence is Chaptico, his name B. Cooke, as I infer by the initials at the end of Letter B. If any officer of the War and Treasury Departments could be detailed to confer with me, and to receive and act on the information whicli I am frequently receiving, it would, I believe, insure prompt and decisive action, and relieve the Departments of details which are too important to be neglected, but which in the present press of work require a specialty to be properly attended to. I have the honor to be, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant-Commander ]IfcCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, transmitting reports of Acting Master Babcock, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner T. A. Ward, regarding captures by that vessel. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Piney Point, October 7, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to transmit the reports of Acting Master Babcock, of the mortal schooner L A. Ward. I am happy to stat Page 115 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 115 that the swift man-of-war boat, supposed to be one belonging to the Merrimack, and said to be employed by the Confederate Government, has been captured by boats from the mortar schooner Ward, belonging to this division. I had ordered a strict lay for her for some days. I send the report of her capture. I send as prisoners of war three of her crew namely, David Stuart, sailor (and one of the crew of the late Merrimack), Warren Hansiell, and John Ferguson. The boat I retain to use for night work. I send a quantity of goods captured from boats cruising, and a number of refugees, at least they call themselves so. Duplicate lists are enclosed. Please send the Ella immediately back, as I have only one steamer on the lower Potomac besides the guard ship, and I have not finished my affairs. The Teaser left for the iRappahannock this morning; she will return to-morrow evening. The destruction of the batteries is finished. I enclose a mail found on the person of John Ferguson, and a mail brought from /irginia by Miss Susan Saddler, one of the female refugees. I would come up myself, but have the coal department business to finish. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. McCREA, Lieutenant-Commander, U. S. Navy, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosures.] U. S. MORTAR SCHOONER T. A. WARD, Blakistone Station, October 4, 1862. SIR: I hereby respectfully report the capture of a large seven-oared boat, apparently a man-of-war boat. I also captured three of her crew, who were concealed in a cornfield near by, and where the boat was captured. They state that they came over from the Virginia shore on the night of the 3d and attempted to return on the same night, but were prevented from doing so by the presence of one of the guard boats. There was also a dead soldier lying on the beach, close to the boat, who, they state, belonged to the First Maryland Regiment (rebel). They state that he accidentally shot himself while attempting, as he supposed, to fire into one of our guard boats, but which proved to be a small skiff drifting on shore with no one in her. There were eleven persons came over in the boat from the Virginia shore, but I succeeded in capturing but three of them. Their names are as follows: Warren ilansiell, of Sonth Amboy, N. J. David Stuart, of New Orleans, La. John Ferguson, of Charles County, Md. I will send enclosed with this report seven letters which were found in the possession of John Ferguson. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. BABCOCK, Acting Master, Commanding Mortar Schooner T. A. Ward. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 116 116 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. U. S. MORTAR SCHOONER T. A. WARD, Blakistone Station, October 5, 1862. SIR: I hereby respectfully report to you the capture of three boats by Mr. William Hatch, acting masters mate of this vessel, while attempting to run the blockade from Bretoits and St. Clements bays. I send enclosed Mr. Hatchs statement* of the captnre, together with a list of articles captured. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. L. BABCOCK, Acting Master, Commanding Mortar Schooner T. A. Ward. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, October 7, 1862. Send the Wyandotte to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. Commodore ilARwooD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding arrival of prize goods, prisoners, and rejhgees from the lower Potomac. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 8, 1862. DEAR SIR: The Ella arrived this morning from the lower end of the Potomac. She brings prize goods, prisoners, and refugees, particulars respecting which will be forwarded later in the day. I have not time at present to do more than send the Richmond papers and a memorandum which 1 took this morning from an intelligent refugee. It occurs to me that you might desire to interrogate this person. I have therefore to request that in case you would like to see him you will apprise me by telegram, so that he may present himself at the Department before he goes to the provost-marshal. We have caught a man-of-wars boat, and McCrea writes me that the batteries are completely demolished. Magaws report has not arrived. Yours, in haste, ANDREW A. ilARwooD. Hon. Gus. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. aNot found Page 117 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 117 [Enclosure.] Memorandum for the Navy Department of information derived from Emmanuel Shaw, refugee brought up in the Ella, October 8. Emmanuel Shaw, of Maryland, Baltimore County, machinist, left Richmond Friday morning last; was at work at the Tredegar Foundry; got pass to go to Cold harbor, and kept straight out Mechaniesyille turnpike and escaped without interruption. At the Tredegar Foundry they are making guns and all kinds of munitions. General Andersou is there, having resigned from the Army. The Richmond, ironclad, would be ready in about two weeks; her engines are old and said to be not of much account. They are making a large rifle gun at the Tredegar Works for this vessel; gun about 15 or 16 feet long, caliber 7~ inches; three bands superposed, each 2 inches thick round the reinforce; wrought-iron, steel-pointed shot; end fashioned diamondwise. There are not many troops in Ihichinond. Mr. Shaw understood they were drawing troops oft from Jacksons forces and bringing them to Drewrys Bluff (Fort Darling). Report of Commodore Biarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, qf thc capture by U. S. schooner T. A. Ward, of three boats engaged in blockade running. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 8, 1862. Sin: The Ella arriyed last night, bringing accounts from the lower Potomac. Between the 3d and 5th, three boats were taken in the attempt to run the blockade from St. Clemeimts and Bretons Bay to Virginia, by a party from the T. A. iVard. The men escaped in the woods. The boats being useless were broken up, after the goods in them had been taken out. On the 4th a large seven-oared boat, which Lieutenant-Commander McCrea had heard of some time since, was captured by a party also from the T. A. Ward. This boat is supposed to have belonged to the old Merrimack, and to have been successfully employed by the Confed- erates in transporting recruits, etc. The crew consisted of eleven men, who all deserted her; three of them, however, were taken in a corn- field, where they had concealed themselvesDavid Stuart, of New Orleans (sailor), late of the Merrimack; Warren ilansiell, of South Amboy, N. J.; John Ferguson, of Charles County, Md. I enclose the letters found on the person of Ferguson, who seems to have been engaged in carrying a mail between Richmond and Baltimore. The Ella also brought with her twelve refugees, including the wife and two children of one of them, a mechanic, who has been lately working in the Tredegar Foundry. All these persons have been sent to the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. ilAuwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. HON. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Nary Department Page 118 118 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANI~OCK. The burning of the schooner Frances Elmor, October 8, 1862. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting report of Acting Master Ives, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Yankee, NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, October 10,1862. SIR: I have the honor to transmit for your information a report made by Acting Master T. Poynton Ives, commanding the U. S. S. Yankee, of the burning of a schooner found off Bluff Point, Va., on the night of the 7th instant. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. YANKEE, Potomac Flotilla, October 8, 1862. SIR: Last night, at a few minutes after 12 oclock, while lying at anchor off Popes Creek, a vessel was reported on fire to me some dis- tance down the river. I immediately got underway and proceeded down to her assistance. We found her nearly off Bluff Point, and about in mid-channel. The vessel was a schooner and was loaded with hay. On arriving near her we could see no one on board, although her boat was astern. The fire had by this time reached the heel of the bowsprit. We remained near her, and underway, for nearly two hours, and when the boats painter parted I succeeded in securing the boat, al1~hough in a damaged condition, her stern being entirely consumed, as were also the blades of the four oars. The boat had evidently been hanging at the stern davits, for the block of the fall was attached to the ring in the stern when we took her. From two schooners that were anchored near by I learned that as soon as they saw the fire they sent their boats (the fire had not then reached the mainmast), but found no one on board. They say that the forecastle had every appearance of having been recently inhabited, and one captain says that one of his men found a lamp (unlighted) on the windlass, and also a tin can, containing two or three pounds of powder, which he threw overboard. The captain of one schooner says that immediately after the fire broke out he saw a boat leave the schooner and pull in for the Virginia shore. From all the evidence I have little doubt but that the vessel was robbed and the crew made prisoners by the rebels, who then fired the vessel and escaped. The above is respectfully submitted by your obedient servant, THOMAS POYNTON IVES, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla Page 119 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 119 Letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, October 25, 1862. SIR: The information I received and communicated to you in reference to the burning of the schooner Frances Elmor is confirmed by the master and crew of that vessel who have been released from their imprisonment and have returned to New York. They say that the party was well armed with pistols and cutlasses and in a fine boat. The party was commanded by Lieutenant Wood, formerly of the U. S. Navy, and the boat has been represented to me as being one for- merly belonging to the illierrimack. She is in all probability in the Upper Machodoc or creeks. Mr. Rollins, who has recently escaped from Richmond and gave me the first information upon the subject, is well acquainted with the creeks and marshes in the vicinity of Mathias, and is anxious to accompany any expedition as guide. Resistance is to be expected. You will therefore take care to send a sufficient force and to send for the Eureka to go into any of the creeks where there is water enough. It will be discreditable to our vigilance if this boat is allowed to do any more mischief. I therefore hope that with your usual energy you will soon be able to give a good account of her. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A, ilAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, recommending appointment of Louis N. Rollins, to a position under his command. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 3, 1862. SIR: On the 20th ultimo, Mr. Louis N. Rollins was referred by the Department to me for the purpose of communicating information respecting the movements of certain rebel parties in the neighborhood of Mathias Point. I found Mr. Rollins well informed, and directed Lieutenant-Com- mander Magaw to permit him to accompany him for the purpose of pointing out the localities where boats used in the contraband trade and the launch recently used by an armed party to rob and destroy a schooner were hid. The launch, which had been carted over from the Rappahannock, had been taken back in the same way, and that the principal object of the expedition failed. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, however, writes me that Mr. Rollins would be very useful to him if he could be given a position in the flotilla, such as clerk, which would make his knowledge of the localities available to the Govern- ment, and at the same time give him a support. I beg leave to recommend Mr. Rollins to the further notice of the Department. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, [A. A. ilARwooD.] Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy, Navy Department Page 120 120 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND EAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Acting ]lfaster Savage, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Matthew Vassar, of captures made by that vessel and the destruction of salt works on Rappahannock River. U. S. SCHOONER MATTHEW VASSAR, Rappahannock River, October 9, 1862. SIR: I most respectfully take the liberty of reporting to you that yesterday, when out in the Chesapeake Bay after water, which I was supplied with (300 gallons) from the steamship Dan Webster and the bark Sea Bride, I afterwards captured a canoe running from Milford Haven to Maryland shore for a cargo of goods, which I will send you the list of part of the things he was to fetch to some of his friends. He likewise has the list of the last cargo that he ran across, which I will enclose in this to you. One of the men, whose name is John Owen, I found on his person $255 in Confederate money, and the other name is Larking Davis, and had $8 of Virginia money. There was nothing in the canoe but a large bag of sweet potatoes. I shall hold them as prisoners until I hear from you, or send them to you if I can get an opportunity. This morning I observed a large smoke about 6 miles above where I lay when you were down here. I immediately got underway and pro- ceeded up the river, and found it to be a large, extensive salt works, consisting of five large boilers, and attended to by negroes. They informed me that they had made a great quantity of salt, and that their master takes it to Richmond, and that he was at present off with some, to some place. So I destroyed all the boilers and tore the place down. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HUGH H. SAVAGE, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. P. S.SIR: Permit me to inform you that since I finished my report to you there are four contrabands who came off to me in a canoe, claim- ing my protection. I have received them until further orders from you, as I have had no orders concerning contrabands. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HUGH II. SAVAGE, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant Commanding E. P. McCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Nacy, com- manding Second Division, regarding destruction of Com~/ederate defenses. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 11, 1862. SIR: I enclose a copy of Lieutenant-Commander Samuel Maga ws weekly report of operations in the river, by which you will perceive that the work of destroying the principal batteries left by the rebels has been accomplished. The mortar schooner Matthew Vassar has taken a canoe furnished with passes from General Lockwood, which appear to be used for con- traband purposes Page 121 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 121 Acting Master Savage has destroyed in the iRappahannock an exten- sive salt work, consisting of six large boilers, from which supplies have been sent to Richmond. I have the honor to be, with great respect, etc., ANDREW A. ilAnwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, October 11, 1862. SIR: I respectfully submit my weekly report: Upper Shipping Point and Cockpit batteries have been completely destroyed, a quantity of rubbish (fragments of wagons, etc.) burned. Cavalry appeared several times, but made no demonstration. At Cock- pit two shells (slightly buried and left there by the enemy) exploded, fortunately without accident to us. There are no works at Boyds Hole, and those at Aquia and Potqmac creeks were the defenses of those routes to Richmond. Mathias Point can be enfiladed by the gunboats; the timber is yet too green to burn readily. I will soon send you the result of a personal examination as to the facilities for transporting heavy guns over the slough, and of its extent. Everything is quiet. Small bodies of cavalry frequently make their appearance in the vicinity of Mathias Point and Dr. Stewarts. I am not satisfied that the schooner lately burned off White Point was burned by the enemy; the affair is, however, mysterious. I beg you will direct the guard vessels above and below to order all vessels anchoring in the river to come to on the Maryland side of the channel. I have the honor to be, your servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, Second Division. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo. tilla, transmitting captured papers. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 13, 1862. SIR: The enclosed papers* were taken from one of the persons intercepted in a canoe by the Matthew Vassars boat, in Chesapeake Bay, off the Ilappahannock River. She was going to Maryland for goods. The bill enclosed is for goods carried over in August. The coast guard pass from General Lockwood and Captain Revere, with other papers, are enclosed to the Department, showing that the prisoner Owen is considered a Union man. By the bill, also enclosed, I infer he is in the habit of passing from shore to shore which can not be permitted under your orders to me to observe a strict blockade. * Not found Page 122 122 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Will the Department please to forward these papers to the proper military authority, that the officers of the Army may be made aware that these passes will not protect from seizure boats or persons, should they be encountered by vessels of the flotilla. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary ~f the Navy, Navy Department. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, giving information received from the War and Treasury Departments. NAVY DEPARTMENT, October 13, 1862. SIR: Commodore iDornin has been instructed to send to Washington, under orders to report to you, the several mortar schooners at Balti- more, as fast as they are ready. To render unnecessary the employment of the river pilots, some of the pilots of the flotilla, or officers thereof, should be in the vicinity of the mouth of the Potomac to pilot the schooners up the river. The mortar schooners at present in the Potomac you will semi around, two by two, to Baltimore for repairs, as the others arrive. The War Department states that it is unable to furnish the contra- bands desired by you to fell the trees on the most prominent points of the Virginia shore to prevent the enemy from erecting batteries. The Department wrote to the Secretary of the Treasury on receiving your letter of the 4th instant, and asked his attention to your suggestion that the collectors should give notice of extraordinary shipments of goods to the ports on the Maryland side of the Potomac. He informs me in reply that the collectors at Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York have been directed accordingly. I am, respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Secretary of the Navy. Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore fliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, in response to Departments letter of preceding day. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 14, 1862. SIR: Your letter of the 12th [13th] has been received. First. I shall be ready to send the mortar schooners, two by two, round to Baltimore as soon as others from that station arrive. The pilots shall be in readiness at the mouth of the river. Second. I shall not require assistance from the War Department in physical force. Much of the work of destruction proposed has been already accomplished with our own men, and I find there will be very little felling of trees required. Third. The cooperation of the Treasury Department has already pro- duced very marked eft~cts in checking the contraband trade. I a Page 123 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAIIANNOCK. 123 informed, however, that a new channel has been opened via llyattsville and Marlborough. The other six carloads came from Baltimore with goods directed to planters. The quantity was extraordinary. An entire carload, for instance, to a single individual. It is evident that a large amount of goods may be taken in this way to points where it can be run at favorable times into Virginia. 1 have the honor to be with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWoOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Sec- ond Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding rcconnoissance of Mathias Point, Va. U. S. S. FREEBORN, October 15, 1862. SIR: I respectfully report that I made a careful and satisfactory reconnoissance of Mathias Point this morning. I find nothing in the way of earthworks but the three old rifle pits built upward of a year ago. At the head of the slough, or swale, heavy artillery can be trans- ported easily from the mainland to the point, but in battery it can be enfiladed, as per sketch.* It would be well to burn the timber on the point, and I beg your order to do so when the opportunity presents. I have the honor to be, your servant, SAMUEL MA~AW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWooD, Commanding Flotilla. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting copy of certificate of capture by U. S. steamers Thomas Freeborn and Eureka. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 16, 1862. SIR: The Satellite arrived here this morning with goods, a copy of certificate of the capture of which is herewith enclosed. She brought up also a person by the name of Goldsmidt, who appears, by the bills taken with him, to be one of the persons engaged in running goods from Baltimore to Virginia. I he usual disposal will be made of the goods and prisoner as soon as the papers can be arranged, which the law requires to be deposited with the district court. I have the honor to be,with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Not found Page 124 124 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.One yawl boat. By whom and by uhat vessel capture made.Boats belonging to steam- ers Freeborn and Eureka. When capture made.October 12. Where and for what reasons.llaving been found abandoned on the Maryland shore, near Blossom Point. The cargo, if any on board.Merchandise. What papers found.None of importance save two bills of goods bought by L. Goldsmidt and three letters. Remarks.One prisoner named Leon (loldsmidt was arrested near the spot where the goods were found under suspicious circumstances, not being able to give aii account of himself, to state why he was there, and is probably one of the owners. The boat was destroyed, being of no value. OCTOBER 13, 186[2.] I hereby certify that the above-mentioned merchandise was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. steamers Freeborn and Eureka, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig- nated, and the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. JAMES L. PLThNKETT, Acting Master, U. S. S. Freeborn. Order of. Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, regarding schooner Mary Elizabeth. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, October 16, 1862. SIR: I have received information that the schooner Mary Elizabeth sailed on the 15th instant for Leonardtowu and St. Clements Bay, with a cargo of whisky, dry goods, boots and shoes, and some passengers. Look well to her cargo and permit. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Adjutant, etc. Report of Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, oI~ affairs on the lower Potomac. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Piney Point, October 17, 1362. SIR: I arrived at this port at 1 a. m. this day, and found at anchor the Resolute, coaling up. Knowing the necessity of coal at the yard I send her up, towing a vessel consigned to you. Should you not need her at present, please order her to return to her station (reporting to me) Page 125 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 125 I would suggest the transfer of, say, 30 men from the Curritucic to the Anacostia, and that the latter take the place of the former as guard ship, aiid the former going to the yard for repairs, as soon as you can receive her. I enclose duplicate lists of refugees captured crossing from Virginia to Maryland iii violation of the blockade. I leave this evening in per- son with two launches to capture another Mierrimacl~ launch, if she comes out. No mortar schooners have as yet arrived from Baltimore to relieve those now in the river. I would recommend a requisition upon the Coast Survey for the last surveys of Potomac River to Piankatank, etc., and the Rappahannock rivers. 1 enclose three passports and two letters taken from the refugees for your disposition. Everything is quiet so far as regards the enemy. I would suggest the removal of the refugees from St. Georges Island and all boats destroyed, save those belonging to the pilots, and only one allowed to each. I have reason to believe they engage iu illegal traffic. I shall do so upon your order immediately. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander, Second Division Potomac Flotilla, and Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARwoOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hays, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Satellite, regarding refugee from Blakistone Island. U. S. S. SATELLITE, Potomac Flotilla, October 19, 1862. SIR: I respectfully beg leave to make report of the taking of a man from Blakistoue Island at this above date, giving his name as William Marmaduke, from Westmoreland County, Va. He says he left Virginia in a small skiff and came to Blakistone Island in order to get North, as he could not remain in Virginia without being drafted for the Confed- erate Army. Under these circumstances I took him on board and for- ward him to you. Sir, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, PETER HAYS, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding Satellite. Commodore A. A. HARwoooD, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, reg~trding capture of metallic life boat C. F. Ward. COMMANDANTS OFFIcE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 20, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to enclose the duplicate certificate of capture by the flotilla of a metallic life boat called the C. F. Ward, containing a quan- tity of goods and a number of letters Page 126 126 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND EAPPAHANNOCK. The part owner of this vessel, Mr. C. F. Ward, was arrested, and appears to be one of the regular contrabandists and mail carriers between Richmond and Baltimore. I have placed him in charge of the provost-marshal. I beg leave to draw yonr attention to the fact that Ward is the sec- ond person recently arrested by the flotilla in the act of carrying cor- respondence between the loyal States and their enemies. The corre- spondence is full of treasonable sentiments, and although there does not appear to be any attempt to give military information, there is no reason to suppose that it may not be done, the usual precautions of concealment being observed. If it were generally understood that these traders and mail carriers would be, when caught, punished as spies, an immediate stop would be put to their operations, which are by no means harmless. If the Department agrees with me in this opinion, may I request that the notice of the War Department may be drawn to the subject, and that some warning may be given by proclamation, that ignorant men may not embark in a business which will put their lives in jeopardy. I should like to be informed in whose hands the intercepted letters should be placed. They contain no information in relation to the prize goods that is required for their condemnation in the courts, but some of importance as to the persons furnishing the goods in Baltimore, and exhibiting the temper of the people of Maryland in disloyal districts. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDw. A. ilAuwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Endorsement.] It would be well for the officer of the flotilla to send evidence in each case of arrest; also to carefully discriminate, so as not to do injustice to innocent parties. Intercepted letters send to Department. W[ELLES.] [Enclosure.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of captere. Name and character of prize.[ C. F. Ward], Francis metallic life boat. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Acting Master W. T. Street, U. S. S. Jacob Bell. When capture made.October 17, 1862, at 11:40 p. m. Where and for what reasons.At Jacksons Creek, Va., for violating the blockade, namely, passing from Maryland to Virginia with goods. The cargo, if any on board.One box or 14 dozen H skirts, 4 boxes of coffee, 1 case of shoes, 3 boxes candles, 2 bundles of cloth, 1 case of shoes, 1 case of shoes, 24 pair of boots, 24 pair of boots, 60 pair ladies shoes, 1 case of prints, 1 case felt hats, 1 case of B cotton, 1 sack of Java coffee, 1 sack of Rio coffee, 1 box castile soap, 1 case of liquor, 1 carpet bag, 1 valise. What papers found.Sixteen letters. Remarks.Receiviug information that a boat with three men were to cross the Potomac from Maryland to Virginia on the night of the 17th instant, started with a boats crew of 7 men and Mr. A. Bentley, third assistant engineer, proceeded to the above creek to await the boat Page 127 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCI(. 127 approach. At 11:40 p. m. the boat came in sight, not coming in the creek, as anticipated, but landed abont 100 yards above. Not being able to approach the boat in time, two men that were hired to row the boat made their escape, but captured the boat, goods, and part owner of the goods, Mr. C. F. Ward. U. S. S. JACOB hELL, October 18, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned C. F. Ward, boat, and goods were captnred by the undersigned, commanding the gig of the U. S. S. Jacob Bell, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. WM. T. STREET, Acting Master. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of arrival of refugees at Washington navy yard. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 20, 1862. SIR: The following-named persons, representing themselves as refu- gees, were sent up from the lower Potomac by the flotilla: R. Cully, Isaac N. Neal, J. Campbell, whites; William Ashton, colored. The white men all had passes from the rebel military authorities from Richmond to Hanover, to obtain which they swore allegiance to the so-called Confederate States. These men have been delivered into the custody of the provost- marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Master Wright, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Arletta, regarding a boat expedition to Freestone Point. U. S. SCHOONER ARLETTA, Alexandria, October 20, 1862. SIR: In conformity with the object which I communicated to you on the 18th instant, I left this vessel early on the evening of the same day with an armed boats crew, and, with the first cutter in tow of the tug Teaser, steamed down the river. At 9:30 p. m. anchored close under Freestone Point and immediately pushed up Neabsco Creek. The night being intensely dark, and my information not explicit as to the landing place of the smugglers, I had to search the reeds and tussocks on both sides the creek, thns losing much valuable time. At the distance of about three-fourths of a mile from the entrance I had the satisfaction of finding the boat of which [I was] in search,and another,which I was told had been employed for some time past in running mail matter across the river Page 128 128 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. A short distance above this place were some 60 cords of recently cut firewood, piled at the waters edge, with evidences of having been much more within a short time. Near by was a large boat of .about 10 tons, which, as it was low tide, I could not take away. I destroyed her by cutting through her keel and boat gunwales. Having accomplished the object for which I started, I took the small boats in tow to the tug and returned to this vessel. Hoping this may meet your approbation, I am, sir. very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. G. WRIGHT, Acting 711 aster, Commanding Arletta. Commodore ANDREW A. HARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. General weekly report of Lieutenant- Commander ]IilicGrea, U. S. Navy, com- manding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, referring to steamer Key- port. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, October [20], 18G2. SIR: I respectfully submit the following report: During the last week I have been in St. Marys and Wicomico rivers, but found nothing worthy of note. Last night I made capture of some goods and the owner, F. J. Allston. I forward them with this dispatch. They were captured on shore, just pushing off at Floods Creek. I have the horse and wagon that brought the goods and men at Piney Point, subject to your order. The contracts with Mr. Plowden were signed to-day. I submit them to you for your approval. Your dispatch of the 16th instant was received on the 18th instant per Satellite. The vessel had been passed by the guard ship, her papers being correct. I have transferred 5 men to Reliance, 5 to Teaser, and 3 to Resolute from the Currituck, she having many to spare, those vessels being very short-handed. I would bring the matter of the Keyport, steamer, to your notice. She runs between Baltimore and Washington, carries passengers, etc., runs into Bretons Bay, and, in my opinion, gives aid to those persons hostile to the Government on the Maryland shore. I would suggest a prohibition to all ports [boats] to trade on the Maryland shore on the Potomac River. I would state that great quan- tities of goods come via the Patuxent River, landed principally at Mill- stone Landing, no vessels being there, or ever have been (save this ves- sel last year). The river is open to all vessels from Baltimore. A cavalry force would be of great service on the shores of the Poto- mac, or rather at the principal trading towns, Port Tobacco, Leonard- town, Chaptico, Great Mills, Millstone Landing, and generally patrol. ling the country. I have had no opportunity since the receipt of your enclosures to attend to the so-called robbery of tIme Mary Jane in the Leon ardtown Bay, but will at the moment I cami leave Bretons Bay. The Currituck is still guard ship; the Teaser relieved the Reliance to-day, cruising between Blakistone Island and Blakes Landing; Matthew Vas- sar, off Herring and Floods creeks to Piney Point. The Reliance needs repair badly. The IVyandank is stationed in the Wicomnico River as storeship. I would request permission to exchange a masters mate with her. I propose you will order the surgeon of this vessel to her, and make her a hospital ship, also having well-covered decks for th Page 129 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 129 sick, previous to their transfer to the yard. Regarding vessels laden with salt, bound to Washington with legal passes, I send you the names of consignees and shippers for your guidance. I have been unable to examine Acting Masters Mate Richards, agree- ably to your order, for promotion to acting ensign as yet, and have none around me capable of so doing. The mortar schooner T. A. Ward is in the Rappahannock; no relief to the mortar vessels now here has as yet arrived from Baltimore. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. ~. MOCRLA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Plotilla. OCTOBER 21, 1862. SIR: Since writing the above I have fallen in with the Keyport and Dragon. The latter vessel brought your dispatches of the 20th instant. I have sent her to carry )ut your instructions of October 18, addressed to her commanding officer. I had an interview with Captain Stackpole, of the Keyport, and exam- ined his papers. His charter by the Government 1)ermits him to carry private freight and passengers and to charge a legal price. He can not carry sutlers stores, nor can any quartermaster order it to be done, is a clause in the charter. I have found that a quartermaster at Point Lookout has taken advantage of his 7osition (according to Captain Stackpoles belief). I forward you a copy of his (the quartermasters) order. Captain S. thinks they are sutlers goods. The Keyjport I passed; she brought no whisky from Baltimore, so Captain S. says; he took it oft his vessel before leaving, there being some doubts of his being allowed to pass the guard ship. I have changed my opinion regarding her, upon a strict investigation, and she is legally passing to and fro. She is examined and passed like other vessels. I should like to know if passengers upon any vessel must be furnished with a pass from some proper authority, or only the number of passengers entered upon the manifest; it is not understood correctly. MATHIAS POINT, October 21, 18627 p. m. SIR: I arrived this evening at 6 p. m. and communicated with Lieu- tenant-Commander Magaw. Wishing to see yon, he leaves at day- light for the yard. I transfer prisoner, goods, and dispatches to him for delivery. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOP, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. General instructions from Commodore fliarwood, U. & Navy, command- ing Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander ]Iiagaw, U. & Navy, commanding First Division. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, October 21, 1862. SIR: 1 have directed the Cwur de Lion to resume her station, and hope she will prove of use to yon. NWRVOL5 Page 130 130 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I have a report, which I have reason to think is reliable, that con- siderable contraband operations are going on in our neighborhood. The large schooner loaded with hay, recently reported as having been burned by Acting Master Ives, of the Yankee, was burned by the rebels, and the crew, consisting of nine men, was sent to Richmond. My informant had seeii some of the men employed in transporting the goods and crew. They were carried over to Smoots wharf, on the Rappahannock, about 2 miles below Lecdstown, and thence to Richmond. The railroad is now completed between Fredericksburg and Richmond. You will perceive by this that it is important to prevent supplies and recruits from being brought across the river, and that much facility is afforded in forwarding supplies if the enemy or his traitorous friends on the Maryland shore can succeed in eluding your vigilance. it is said that one of the Merrimacks boats has been brought across on wheels from the Rappahannock, and that she is concealed either in the Upper Miachodoc or Rosiers creeks, or in a small creek called Gambo [Gambles f], about 3 miles above the Machodoc, and navigable only for boats. There is a picket guard on Bluff Point, and there may be one on the Machodoc, and the report is that the pickets will be extended from Mathias Point down to Monroes Creek, and even as far as Mattox. I wish you to endeavor to find out, if possible, where the boats used in crossing from the Virginia shore are concealed, and that you would send in and destroy them. As you may probably meet with resistance, if the draft of water will permit you had better employ the Eureka. You are authorized to send for that vessel and to look into the creeks or not, as you may deem expedient. At all events make your division keep on the alert to prevent the crossing from the Maryland shore. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAluwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MAcLAw, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report qf Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hays, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Satellite, of the loss of A udrew Crane, of that vessel. U. S. S. SATELLITE, Potomac Flotilla, October 21, 1862. SIR: I most respectfully beg leave to make report of the loss of one of my men this day. I sent my boats, in company with those of the Freeborn and Yankee, on shore at Mathias Point, for the purpose of destroying the woods and rifle pits there; my men, with others, were placed on picket. When they were called in, one man by the name of Andrew Crane was missing. He is supposed to have been taken pris- oner, as rebel cavalry are known to have been in the vicinity during the day. Sir, I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, P. HAYs, Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding Satellite. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, eomdg. Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C Page 131 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 131 [Endorsement.] This man appears to have been lost through his own disobedience of orders, having strayed from his station as picket. He was a landsman. Respectfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Report of Commodore Jiarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting duplicate certificates of capture. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD Washington, October 22, 1862. SIR: I enclose four duplicate certificates of captures made recently by the Potomac Flotilla by the Teaser, Yankee, William Bacon, and Eureka. The following persons have been placed in custody of the provost- marshal: F. J. Allston (Virginian), taken with contraband goods and letters for Richmond. Jacob Biscoe (colored). Robert Lacey, James Lacey, Hugh Mitchell la John IXJitchell. , te of the rebel Army. William Marmaduke, refugee from Virginia. Four black men and two women, ref I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore Hon. GIDEON WELLES, , Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla.Ccrlificate of capture. Name and character oftheprize.Canoe, F. J. Allston and Jacob Bisco~ (colored). By whom and by what vessel capture made.U. S. S. Teaser; Acting Master W. T. Street and Acting Ensigil P. Sheridan. When capture made.October 19, l862,at8:30 p.m. IVhere and for what reason..At Herring Creek, Md., for attempting to pass from Maryland to Virginia with goods. The cargo, if any on board.Two boxes shoes, 1 box ladies shoes, 2 boxes dry goods, 1 bundle, 1 carpet bag. What papers found.Ten letters. Remarks .Recei ving information that a boat was to cross the Potomac from Herring Creek, Maryland, to Virginia, with goods, on the night of the 19th instant, I was ordered byLicutenant-CommanderE. P. McCrea to go on board the Teaser and proceed to the above creek; arriving in time to see the boat coming out with a negro in charge but no goods. Ordered him to come on shore, wheu he stated that a wagon filled with goods was waiting for him about 11 miles up the beach, and that one of the men that were to cross had just left the canoe as we came in sight. Securing the canoe and taking the negro with us proceeded to the landing, where we found the wagon amid goods with two men, one of whom made his escape, but succeeded in capturing the other, Mr. F. J. Aliston, with goods Page 132 132 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC ANI) RAPPAHANNOCK. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, October 20, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned F. J. Aliston and Jacob Biscoe (colored) with crew and goods were captured by the undersigned on board U. S. S. Teaser, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. ~. T. STREET, Acting ]Iifaster, Executive Officer of the Jacob Bell, Senior Officer on board U. S. S. Teaser. B. P. MCCI?EA, Lieutenant- Commander, Second Division. Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.One canoe. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Charles P. Moore, acting masters mate, iii charge of the guard boat from the Yankee. When capture made.Evening of October 18, 1862. Where and for what recisons.Off Nanjemoy Creek, one-third of the way over from the Maryland shore. Because attempting to run the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.One letter. Remarks.There were four men in the canoe, viz, Hugh Mitchell, John Mitchell, James Lacey, iRobert Lacey. The party were attempting to get into Virginia. Hugh Mitchell has been in the rebel Army. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned canoe and men were cap- tured bytheundersigned, commandingthe U. S. S. Yankee, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. THOS. POYNTON IvEs, Commanding Yankee. Potomac Flotiila.Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Eight boxes of merchan d.ise, assorted, to wit: One box marked K~, 1 box [marked] I. 5. G., 1 box [marked] R. B. Griffin, 1 box [marked] G., 1 box Inarked ~ (fever and ague cure), 3 boxes mustard. By whom and by what vessel capture made.William P. Rogers, U. S. schooner William Bacon, Potomac Flotilla. When capture madeOctober 14, 1862, at 7 p. m. Where and for what reasons.Being contraband goods, hid away for the purpose of running across to Virginia, concealed on the bank of Neals Creek [Sound], behind a brush fence, covered with brush. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Remarks.These goods are without doubt hid away by a boat or boats hard pushed and pursued by some of the flotilla in the first of the block- ade, they coming into the creek and unlading and concealing them and going to another part of the creek with the boats. There were some empty boats found and destroyed in the creek, I have bee Page 133 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 133 informed, and perhaps may have been the same ones that hid their goods. One George II. Jennings, the present occupant of the land where the goods were found, informed me of the goods being concealed, and that he had found them while searching for some stray pigs, and he - informed me of it for fear they might be found on his place and impli- cate him. It is my opinion that the goods have been concealed for five or six weeks. Things about the place had that appearance. U. S. SCHOONER WILLIAM BACON, Kettle Bottom AS~tation~ October 14, 18G2. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned goods were found con- cealed on the west bank of Neals Creek [Sound], Charles County, Md.; were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. mortar schooner TVilliam Bacon, No. 7 of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. WM. P. IIOGERS, Acting Master, Commanding. Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Lady Washington (yawl boat). By whom and by what vessel capture made.J. J. Brice, U. S. S. Eureka. When capture made.October 17, 1862. Where and for what reasons.In Mattawoman Creek, concealed in marsh and being abandoned. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.No papers. Remarks.Found concealed two trunks in corn shock near the boat abandoned. The name T. IR. Bateman, Port Tobacco, printed on one of the trunks. OCTOBER 20, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned yawl boat was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Eureka, of the Potomac Flo- tilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. J. BRICE, Acting Ensign. Report of Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, urging measures for the suppression of illegal traffic. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, Nxvv YARD, Washington, October 25, 1862. SIR: Permit me to inform the Department that great quantities of goods pass up the Patuxent River and are landed principally at Mill. stone Landing, and that no vessels of war are now, or have been, there except the Jacob Bell (last year). The Patuxent is open to all vessels trading from Baltimore. A cavalry force would be now of great service at the principal trad- ing towns, such as Port Tobacco, Leonardtown, Chaptico, Great Mills, and Millstone Landing. The force should be commanded by a strict and efficient officer, who should patrol the surrounding country Page 134 134 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAITANNOCK. I understand that the military department in that section of the country is under the command of General Woo]. I have the honor to be, With great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Acting Master Savage, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Matthew Vassar, regarding capture of six men and two boats. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, U. S. Schooner Matthew Vassar, October 25, 18G2. SIR: The following is a report of the capture of six prisoners and two boats. Yesterday afternoon I sighted a boat going on shore containing three men. I iinme(iiately sent a boat in chase and succeeded in cap- turing the boat, bnt no cargo in her. The three men succeeded in making their escape in the woods. Last night my guard boat captured six men in the act of going to the Virginia shore. They had paid their passage to a man [of] the name of Morris. He was to take them over, but before they got in the boat my men captured them. There were nine of them in all, but three of them made their escape. Those six, when brought on board, I care- fully searched and found on them a quantity of letters, which I will forward to you, and a small quantity of medicines, and nine boxes of toothbrushes; all of these things I will forward by the U. S. S. Resolute. After delivering the prisoners to me I immediately sent my boat in pursuit of the boat that these people were going to Virginia in and they succeeded in capturing her, but no cargo in her. Sir, I wish to report to you that these men all allow that they intend to join the Southern Army, and that they had two bottles of whisky, which my men noticed them putting in a drug, and then invited them to drink of it, which they refused, but destroyed the liquor. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, HUGH H. SAVAGE, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant Commanding E. P. McCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- till~, transmitting certificate of capture madc by U. S. S. Eureka. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAvY YARD, Washington, October 27, 18G2. SIR: I enclose a certificate of capture by the Eureka. The prisoners will be sent to the provost-marshal this morning. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Coin manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary Page 135 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 135 [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotifla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prize.One boat, no name; worthless, and destroyed. By whom and by what vessel capture made.~Acting Ensign] J. J. Brice, U. S. S. Eureka. When capture made.October 24, 1862. Where and for what reasons.At Nanjemoy Creek; running blockade. The cargo, ~/ any on board.One trunk; carpetbag. What papers found.[None.] RemarksThe boat being unfit for use I destroyed it. Three per- sons were taken in the boat, viz, Thomas C. Hutchinson (white), Phil. Lucas, and William Lucas (colored). The trunk contained bnt two or three articles of clothing. The carpetbag also contained clothing. OCTOBER 24, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prisoners and articles were captured by tile undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Eureka, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. J. BRIcE, Acting Ensign. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. AS~. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFIcE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 28, 1862. SIR: I forward to-day another certificate of capture by the boats of the ]Iiliatthea- Vassar. The prisoners, which I have as usual placed in the custody of the military authorities of the district, were apparently goina across to Virginia to join the rebel Army. One of them at least had already been in it, as appears by his discharge and pass, x hich have been forwarded to General Wadsworth. Among the letters seized on the occasion were two which show that rebel emissaries are busy on both sides of the water, and that there is a pressing necessity for a cavalry force in Charles and St. Marys counties, Md. Transient visits by the military force do but little good; they should be continually on the move, with all the information which the detect- ive force caii forward, to enable them to arrest the agents of the rebel States. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. fiARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Potomac FlotiIla..Cerlificate of capture. Name and character of prize.Two small boats. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Acting Master Command- ilig II. H. Savage, U. S. schooner Matthew Vassar Page 136 136 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. When capture made.~October 24. Where and for what reasons.Transporting rebels from Maryland to join the rebel Army. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.Private letters. Remarks.Captured six prisoners in the act of rowing to Virginia to join the so-called Confederate Army. Two of these men originally belonged to the rebel Army. H. B. Dorsey, belonged to Stonewall Jacksons division. Augustus Howell, thirteen months in the rebel Army. On iR. B. Dorseys person fonnd nine small boxes of tooth- brushes and one-half pound of opium, with other small quantities of medicines. Picked up a quantity of letters in the water, that some of the party tried to destroy, which I will forward to senior officer. List of prisoners names: J. T. Swaun, H. B. D orsey, Thomas Hanon, Frank Thornton, Augustus Howell, J. H. Parsons. U. S. SCHOONER MATTHEW VASSAR, October 24, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned boats and prisoners were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. mortar schooner Matthew Vassar, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the tune and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. H. H. SAVAGE, Acting Master, Commanding. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Yavy, commandi;lg Potomac Plo- tiUa, transmitting certificates of captures made by U. S. schooner William Bacon and U. S. S. Eureka. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 30, 1862. SIR: I enclose two certificates of capture, one by the U. S. schooner William Bacon, on the night of the 22d instant, and the other by the Eureka, on the 27th instant. The prisoner, Nicholas Porter, has been sent to the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, wilt great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. N~tme and character of prize.One boat, no name; destroyed. One prisoner, Nicholas Porter, who claims to belong in Talbot County, Md. By whom and by what vessel capture made.William P. Rogers, U. S. schooner William Bacon. When capture madc.Night of October 22, 1862. Where and for what reasons.Jn Charleston Creek, Maryland, being contraband goods on the way over to Virginia. The cargo, if any on board.Two barrels of whisky, 5 boxes of goods marked T., 3 packages of woolen cloth, 1 of cotton cloth, 1 package of wadding. What papers found.One paper, having the appearance of the head- ing of a letter, found in one of the packages of cloth, which is enclosed herein Page 137 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 137 Remarks.A portion of these goods was found concealed near the head of Charleston Creek, the prisoner Porter having said there were goods there that belonged to the same lot, all of which belonged to a man by the name of John Thomas, who was going to transport them over to Cuckold Creek and run them over to Virginia. This Porter admits, who says he was hired by Thomas to help get the goods across from Cliaptico to Cuckold Creek, and that lie has no interest or share in the goods, and was persuaded to help him in order to make some- thing, as he was poorly off. I hereby certify that the ab~3~statements are true in every respect. CHAS. D. THOMPSON, Acting Masters Mate. U. S. SCHOONER WILLIAM BACON, Kettle Bottom, October 26, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned boat, goods, and prisoner were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. mortar schooner William Bacon, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. WM. P. IRO~ERS, Acting Master, Commanding. Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character ofpri~e.Merchandise. By whom and by what vessel capture made.J. J. Brice, U. S. S. Eureka. When capture made.October 27,1862. Where and for what reasons.On premises of Mr. Oliver, at Blossom Point, for being secreted in corucrib, he not knowing or claiming any kiiowledge of them. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Remarks.These articles were abandoned by owner, viz: One carpet sack and bag containing clothing and clothes. OCTOBER 27, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned articles were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Eureka, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. J. BRICE, Acting Ensign. The burninq of the ship Aileghanian by a party of Confederates under Lieutenant Wood, C. S. Navy, October 29, 1862. Report of Acting Master Provost, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Anacostia. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Piney Point, Potomac River, October 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to state that I am in receipt of information to this effect, from Captain J. II. Belham, of the steamer Daniel Webster: That he picked up a boat containing ten men, about 5 miles below Smiths Point. These men stated that they belonged to the Alleghanian Page 138 138 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. of New York, 1,400 tons burden, with guano, for London, and from Baltimore, with pilot on board; that their vessel came to anchor in the Chesapeake Bay, about 20 miles off the mouth of the Rappahannock; and between the hours of 10 and 12 oclock p. m. they were boarded by four boats, containing about twenty-five men, and that these men low- ered their boats and ordered them into them, with the exception of the captain, first officer, and pilot, whom they took in their boats with them, setting the ship on fire. The vessel now lies iu the same place at anchor with her mizzenmast gone, together with the cabin, leaving the after part of the hull, a mere shelJ~ to within about 0 feet of the water line. She is now in charge of a schooner, supposed to be a mor- tar schooner. fhe captain of the Daniel Webster requesting advice as to what disposition he should make of the ten men, I told him to carry them with liini to Alexandria, there place them on some United States vessel to be forwarded to the Washington navy yard without delay. The captured men stated that they were seized and bound by their captors and placed in the boats; but, as I am informed by the captain of the Daniel Webster, they were all well-dressed, and some even had their bags with them. I regarded it as a suspicious circumstance, and ordered them to be conveyed to Washington as prisoners. Their names are as follows: J. J. Barstow, captaiii; H. Williams, mate; I. Pate, pilot, are missing, reported taken by the rebels. The following are the names of the ten men now on board the Daniel Webster: Thomas Paston, richard B. Roberts, John Kane, James Wise, Robert Harrison, James U. McDonald, James Gibbarr Michael McDonald, Michael Howard, James Sword. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Acting Master, Commanding. Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to investigate the burning of the ship Alleghanian. NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 1, 1862. SIR: You will cause an investigation of the circumstances connected with the burning of the vessel off the Rappahannock a few nights since, and communicate the result to the Department in writing. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Secretary qf the Nav~~. Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc., Washington, D. C Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting report and statement relative to the burning of the ship Alleghanian. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD Washington, November 5, 1862. SIR: As soon as practicable after hearing the report that a vessel had been boarded and set on fire in Chesapeake Bay near the mouth of the Rappahaiinock, I dispatched Lieutenant- Commander McCrea in the Ella to make the enquiry snbsequently called for by your order of the 1st instant Page 139 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 139 I enclose for the information of the Department the copy of a report received last evening from Acting Master W. L. Babcock, commanding the mortar schooner T. A. Ward, who assisted in saving the AUegha~& ian from being entirely consumed. I also enclose the statement of James L. Jackson, one of the crew of the A lieghanian, at present in custody in this yard, which statement was taken down by me personally, arid from the straightforward and nnembarrassed manner of ~Jackson in telling his story, and the cor- roborative evidence of Acting Master Babcock I think there is no cause whatever to snspect foul play on the part of the crew of the ship in question. It appears to me, however, proper to remark that there does not seem to have been proper vigilance, or such preparation for defense as ought to have been made by the master of the ship in such a neighborhood, and perhaps it may be as well to remind the commercial public that it is impossible for the military arm to come in always in time to save their vessels from damage oi even from total destruction. In this instance the boats of the Ward and the Crusader attracted by the flames were in time to save the vessel from burning np entirely; but if she had been provided with a few small arms, and her people had been more oii the alert, they might have given a good account of the maraud- ing party. Will the Department give me the authority to release the ten seamen now iii confinement here, against whom it appears there is no evidence which worild warrant their further detention0? I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. ilARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. EEnclosures.1 POTOMAC FLOTILLA, U. S. Mortar Schooner T. A. Ward, , 186. SIR: About half past 2 oclock on the morning of the 29th of Octo ber, I discovered a large ship omi fire, bearing S. E.; it was about 8 miles distant. I immediately proceeded to her assistance, amid arrived there at 6 oclock a. iii., and found the U. S. S. Crusader alongside of the burning vessel. I immediately sent two boats crews on board to assist in putting out the fire. I found her to be the ship Alleghanian, of New York. She was from Baltimore with a cargo of guano, bound to Lon- don. She had been set on fire by a party of men froni Mathews County, Va., calliiig themselves the Arabs. At 10:30 a. in., we had partly suc- ceeded in extinguishing the fire, and at Captain Andrews request, of the Crusader, I lay by the ship until the morning of the 30th, while he proceeded to Yorktown for assistance to tow her away. At 5:30 a. in., the Crusader arrived with assistance from Yorktown and towed the ship down the bay, to what place I am not informed. Again proceeded to my station at the mouth of the Itapahannock River, at which place 1 arrived at 10 oclock on the morning of the 30th of October. I would fnrther state that I have information from reliable sources timat the leader of the party that burned the above-named ship was one Lewis Hudgins, of Mathews County, Va. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. BABcOcK, Acting illaster, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla Page 140 140 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Statement of James L. Jack8on. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, Aovember 8, 1862. James L. Jackson, seaman; left Baltimore in the Alleghani an, of New York, loaded with guano, bound to Londoi~, last Thursday week; met a head wind in Chesapeake Bay and came to anchor; set an anchor watch. About a quarter to 10, Jacksou with another man having the watch, three boats came alongside, the crews armed with sabers and revolvers. They took possession of the ship, and after taking a quantity of small stores from her, breaking open the chests of the men, took all the clothes except one suit and some contained in a bag which was thrown into a boat unobserved by them. The captain, chief mate, and pilot were carried off by the assailants. The second mate and the crew were divided among the two other boats belonging to the vessel. The crew were at first bound, but released, one at a time, as they passed over the side. The night was dark, and the boat in which Jackson got lost sight of the enemys boat and pulled for the eastern shore; was picked up by the Daniel Webster near the month of the Potomac, and with his companions was handed over to the officers of the Potomac Flotilla and bron~ht to the navy yard. Saw the fire break out on board the Alleghanian during the night as they were pulling for the eastern shore. Ships company, according to Jacksons statement: One captain, 1 first mate 1 second mate, 1 pilot, 1 carpenter, 14 men and 1 boy before the mast, 1 cook, 1 cabin boy22 in all. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting information from the captain of ship Alleghanian. NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 17, 1862. SIR: I transmit herewith a copy of a communication from Captain Case, containing information of the designs of the rebels to surprise and capture some [of] our steamers in the waters of Virginia. The ves- sels of the flotilla should be cautioned. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, ASecretary of the Navy. Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. [Enclosure.] BAY STEAMER LOUISIANA, November 9, 1862. MY DEAR TURNER: I have just learned from the captain of the Alleghanian that the party who captured and burned his ship was a party from the rebel steamer Patrick Henry, who came from Richmond and waited three weeks before attacking the A l?eghanian to capture a gunboat. The party was commanded by Lieutenants Wood arid Lee, of the rebel Navy. They say they are determined to capture some of our boats. They went from the neighborhood of Gwynns Island, at the mouth of the Piankatank. The night was dark, and a fire was built on the shore to mark the place to return to. The General Putnam is going on the blockade between York and Piankatank rivers. Cantion her captain. I dare say a like attempt may be made against our picket boats in the James. The plan is a feasible one Page 141 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK~ 141 The party numbered 25, armed with muskets, cutlasses, and French revolvers, 9 barrels, one of large bore loaded with 14 buckshot. The same party burned a schooner (loaded with hay) in the Potomac a short time since. Advise Parker. Yours, sincerely, A. LUDLOW CASE. Captain TURNER, U. S. Navy, Commanding New Ironsides, Newport News, Va. P. S.Let the admiral know. The same thing may be attempted on the sounds. Letter from Warner T. Jones, esq., to Flag-Officer Forrest, C. S. Navy, relative to the arrest of Peter Smith f~r complicity in the burning of the ship Alleghanian. RICHMOND, YA., November 17, 1862. SIR: I have received information, which I consider entirely reliable, that a gunboat in the service of the U. S. Government came up the York River early on the morning of the 10th instant and sent an armed boat ashore, at or near a place called Cappahosic, in the county of Gloucester, and arrested Peter Smith and carried him as a prisoner on board said gunboat, where the order was given, in the presence or hearing of John Sterling, a citizen of Gloucester, to put him (Smith) in double irons. It is known to you, from the official report of Lieu- tenant Wood, of the C. S. Navy, that the said Peter Smith acted with him under orders as pilot on a recent expedltion to Mathews County, Va., and in the Chesapeake Ray, on which occasion a merchant vessel of the enemy was burned by Lieutenant Wood and party and the cap- tain and mate of the vessel brought prisoners to Richmond. There can be no doubt in my mind that Peter Smith has been made a prisoner ky the enemy because of his participation in the affair of the burning of the vessel alluded to by Lieutenant Wood and party, and that the order given on board the gunboat to put him in double irons justifies the conclusion that they intend to proceed against him and treat him either as a private citizen engaged in an unauthorized expedition or as a pirate taken on the high seas. Under these circumstances I ask that the Government will give to said Smith that aid and protection which his case, in my opinion, eminently merits, and that the necessary steps be taken and orders given to that end. Most respectfully, WARNER T. JONES, Member flouse Delegates of Virginia for (iloucester County. Flag-Officer F. FORREST, C. S. Navy. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the U. S. S. Wyandank. GENERAL ORDER.] POTOMAC FLOTILLA, October 29, 1862. The Wyandank is storeship of the Potomac Flotilla and is not to be used as a cruising or dispatch vessel, save under urgent necessity. Her station will be in Wicomico River, subject to my orders only. ANDREW A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 142 142 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding repairing and refitting of vessels. POTOlVIAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 30, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to inform the Department that the mortar vessel Sophronia is ready to proceed to Baltimore for repairs as soon as her relief arrives. The necessity for repairing several of the vessels of the Potomac Flotilla and the activity of the contraband trade across the river induce me to request the Department that the mortar vessels to take the place of the Matthew Vassar and William Bacon, ordered to be fitted for store vessels, may be sent from Baltimore as soon as practicable. The Arletta and William Bacon are at the yard for the purpose of having their mortars taken out, and I would respectfully request instruction as to the manner in which they are to be fitted. I expect the arrival of the Matthew Vassar to-day. T have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANIYM. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding the taking of pistols from the house of John Tayloe, esq., tn King George County, Va. U. S. S. FREEBORN, October 30, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of yonr letter of yesterday in relation to a pair of old pistols taken from the house of Mr. John Tayloe, of King George [County], Va., a captain in the Ninth Virginia Horse. Mr. Plunkett was censured by me for not bringing off all arms found at Mr. Tayloes, but he states be ordered the pistols in question not to be taken. One of the boats crew disobeyed orders and brought oft one of them, which I send you. Several days elapsed after Mr. Tayloes arrest before I discovered that this pistol was on board. When I sent him up I permitted him to retain his side arms. The third clause of your letter is severe. Do you consider the taking of arms from the honse of a man known to be an enemy of the Govern- ment and in the enemys country as pillage 0? Mr. Tayloe appears to be fond of letter writing. I am sorry lie was Oh sick furlough when arrested, but have heard he was absent from his company without leave. His preparations were made to leave home early the next morning. I hereby return Mr. Tayloes letter. Very respectfully, your ser~ant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. ilARWooD, Commandiug Potomac Flotilla Page 143 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 143 Report of Acting ilaster Brown, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Cwur de Lion, regarding a refa gee. POTOMAC RIVER, October 31, 1862. SIR: I have to report to you that this afternoon at 1 oclock, while lying off Chicomuxen Creek, we picked up a refugee coming from the Virginia shore. flis name is James T. Griffen, and he belongs to Stafford County, 4 miles from Chopawamsic Creek. He took the oath of allegiance to the U. S. Government April 14, 1862, arid returned to Virginia when our troops occupied that section of the country. He says the rebel pickets are hovering about within 1 mile of the river, taking every man that is available for recruits; therefore lie made his escape. Sending him and his skiff to you, I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. II. BROWN, Commanding U. S. S. Cenr de Lion. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, U. S. S. Thomas Freeborn. Report of Acting Master Frank, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. S. Reli- ance, regarding capture of sloop Pointer, of Georgetown, D. C. U. S. S. RELIANCE, Off Alexandria, October 31, 1862. SIR: I herewith send up to the yard, nuder charge of Acting Mas- ters Mate Walters, of this vessel, the sloop Pointer, of Georgetown, D. C., and two men and one boy captured this day at the wharf in this city. J. Otis, the captain, boarded this vessel for a pass down the river to Pamunkey Creek, Maryland, bringing with him a clearance from the custom-house at Alexandria as being light. From information received, however, this forenoon I sent Mr. Wal- ters to overhaul her, which he did and brought her alongside. Instead of being light, as the clearance stated, she had on board groceries, dry goods, and whisky. The parties telling contrary tales, and the entire proceedings gener- ally being at variance with regularity, I determined to submit all to you. Mr. Walters will explain in detail everything concerning the capture. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. FRANK, Acting Master, Commanding Reliance. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificates of capture. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 1, 1862. SIR: I enclose three certificates of capture by the vessels of the Potomac Flotilla, two by the U. S. S. Eureka and one by the U. S. S. Satellite, on the 30th ultimo Page 144 144 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The prisoners have been sent to the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, very respectftilly, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAnwooD, Commodore, Corn manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, secretary of the Navy, Yavy Department. [Enclosures.j Potomac Flotilla Certificate of capture. Name and character of jprize.One manJohn Lambert. By uhom and by what vessel captured.J. J. Brice, U. S. S. Eureka. When capture made.October 29, 1862. Where and for what reasons.Cedar Point. Secreted in a cornfield, and acknowledged having run the blockade the day previous. The cargo, if any on board.[None.] What papers found.None. Remarks .[None.] OCTOBER 30, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned person was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Eureka, of the Potomac Flo- tilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. J. BRICE, Acting Ensign. Potomac Flotiiia.Certiflcate of capture. Name and character of prize.A boat (no name) carrying passen- gers. The boat worthless and destroyed. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Acting Ensign J. J. Brice, U. S. S. Eureka. When capture made.October 30, 1862, p. m. Where and for what reasons.Off Mathias Point, crossing the Potomac River clandestinely and violating the blockade. The cargo, if any on board .None, except baggage. What papers found.Some letters found on one of the prisoners, Mr. H. Degeii. Remarks.The following is a list of prisoners, viz: (1) John Denfil (wife and three children); has a little money and represents himself as a refugee. (2) George F. Fisher (wife and one child); has a little money with him; represents himself as a refugee. (3) Joseph Myer, going North to see his relations; intends going back to North Caro- lina, where his family resides; says he is a loyal citizen. (4) Henry Degen; states he will remain North or go to Europe. The letters were in his possession and are evidence against him. He had also more money (about $2,800 rebel bonds, etc.) than necessary for his expenses. Thornton Fitzhugh, Lewis Davis (colored), boats crew. OCTOBER 30, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned persons were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Eureka, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. J. BRICE, Acting Ensign Page 145 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. t45 Potomac Flotilla.Certificate of capture. Name and character of prize.One caiioe containing five men giving the following names: Lewis Freeman, William Bigger, James Helming, Edwin Keenon, Franklin Que. By whom and by what vessel captared.Volunteer Lieutenant P. Hays, steamer Satellite. IVhen capture made.October 30, a. in. Where and for what reasons.Off the Wicomico River, under suspicion of going to or from Virginia. The cargo, if any on board.Two carpetbags. IVhatpapersfound.[None.] Remarks.Mr. Lewis Freeman states that he came from Virginia, and that he has never beeii attached to the Confederate Army, as he is exempt from military duty. He came from Louisiana very recently. He (Freeman) states that Messrs. Helming and Keenon were hired by the party to take them from Cobbs Point into Wicomico River. The canoe is worthless. THURSDAY MORNINL~, October 30, 1862. I herel)y certify that the above-mentioned canoe and five men were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Satellite of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. PETER HAYS, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding Satellite. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Ifagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding co ntrabands and refugees. U. S. S. FREEBORN, November 2, 1862. SIR: I send Acting Masters Mate [Charles F.] Watson with some contrabands and a skiff. The inhabitants of the Virginia shore are now in the habit of sending these trustworthy negroes to Maryland for goods. Mr. Rollins having communicated with his father at Machodoc, found that the boat llferrimaclc had been taken to Richmond. Our expedition did not take place. I send a refugee picked up by the Cvur de Lion with the letters of her commanding officer in relation to him. Mr. Rollimis would be valuable to me, as he knows the creeks and the country below Mathias. I have every confidence in him, and if you cati give [him] a situation as masters mate or clerk, I think the interest of the Government would be served. I have the honor to be, your servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding, etc. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting certificate of capture. COMMANDANTS OFFJCE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 3, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to enclose a certificate of capture by the Potomac Flotilla of three boats manned by slaves, who were taken in the attempt to run goods across the Potomac by order of their masters. N W RVOL 5 1 Page 146 146 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. These slaves have been placed in the custody of the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. IIAiRwOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla.Certiftcatc of capture. Name and character of prize.Three boats without name; two worth- less and destroyed. By whom and by what vessel capture made.By Acting Masters Mate C. F. Watson, of the U. S. S. Freeborn, Lieutenant-Commander Samuel Magaw. When capture made.November 1, 1862, p. m. Where and for what reasons.At Maryland Point, for violating the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Rernarks.The following is the list of the men, viz: Benjamin Cole (slave), belonging to William D. Hoe, of Virginia; Samuel Mowe (slave), belonging to Ann Rice, of Virginia; Robert Brown (slave), belonging to Charles Scott, of Fredericksburg, Va.; Fincade Lucas (slave), belong- ing to Margaret Miffleton, of Virginia; Beverly Brooks (slave), belonging to Mrs. Judge Alexander, of Virginia; George Parker (slave), belong- ing to Charles Barry, of Virginia. These men were all taken for attempting to run goods across from Maryland to Virginia. Their masters, furnishing them with motley, sent them across to purchase goods and return them to said masters, they being confidential serv- ants. They were taken before landing on Maryland shore. NOVEMBER 1, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned boats were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Freeborn, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Report of Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Sec- ond Division Potomac Flotilla, transmitting reports regarding expedi- tions to Gwynns Island and Nomini Creek, Virginia. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, November 6, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit the proceedings of the Second Divi- sion, Potomac Flotilla: I sent an expedition up the Komini Creek, and enclose you the report of the officer in charge, and also the report of Acting Master Charles II. Brown, commanding the Cwur de Lion (Station H), Rappahannock and Piankatank rivers. I would recommend the destruction of the property belonging to one Hudgins, on the Piankatank, as I have reason to believe from the state- ments of Union people in that vicinity [he] was leader of the party that burned the ship Alleghany [Alleghanian] Page 147 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 147 I would also advise an increase of the Potomac Flotilla, as the com- mand covers too much ground for the number of vessels to guard con- stantly - and effectually each station. The Teaser has captured two sloops and prisoners. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieatenant- Commander, Commanding Second Division, and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosures.1 GWYNNS ISLAND ANCHORAGE, Potomac Flotilla, November 4, 1862. Siu: Having relieved the U. S. S. Resolute and the schooner [T. A.] Ward, according to your order, I anchored for the night in the Itappa- hannock Itiver. The next morning being Monday, November 3, the Ca~nr de Lion, Teaser, and the schooner S. H. Poole got underway and proceeded to Gwynns Island. I sent the boat under charge of Acting Masters Mate Gallagher, and then Captain Sheridan, of the Teaser, taking his boat, went in charge of the expedition to protect the boats of the S. if. Poole while removing the effects of the Union families from the island. Allowing the boats to remain as long as I thought expedient, I then recalled them by signal. At 8 p. in., fearing the enemy might set fire to the building during the night, I sent a boat from each steamer to protect the house. While the boats were returning to the ship in the afternoon Captain Sheridan captured a Mr. Edwards, of the Confederate Army. Tuesday, November 4, after breakfast, the boats were again dispatched and returned with effects of families. At noon I received a note from Lieutenant Commanding T. Fitzhugh, C. S. Army, to the effect that if I wished to confer with him in regard to the removal of the Union people, he would meet me under a flag of truce at any place 1 might designate. I accordingly appointed the place to be Gwynns Island, opposite the wharf, on the mainland. Arriving at the spot designated I met a messenger with a note stating that Lieutenant Fitzhugh objected to the rendezvous, it not being on the mainland, but as there was no limit mentioned in the first communication 1 considered it derogatory to the honor of an officer in the U. S. Navy to give way under such cii- cumstances, and sent him a message to that effect. He then came over and apologized, saying he thought he mentioned the term mainland in his note. We then agreed to suspend hostilities until the schooner with the families on board should have left the harbor. He wished to have Mr. Edwards returned, as we had not been molested thus far, but I told him no, we had taken him while acting under the cover of our guns, and the request could not be granted. Having assisted Mr. Wiggins to remove his property, word was sent that any other families niight also take this opportunity to leave. Tuesday, INovembcr 4, Mr. John W. Billups came into the harbor from Annemessex amid came alongside showing a permit from Brigadier- General H. H. Lockwood to cross the bay and report to the vessel guard- ing the coast. He wished to remove his family, but as he had no per- mit from the Secretary of the Navy, War, or Treasury, I could not allow him to go ashore, but sent him my own boat and gave his family per- mission to leave under the authority of the order from Commodor Page 148 148 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Harwood to Mr. Wiggins to bring away any Union families desirous of leaving. I shall send them off in the schooner S. H. Poole under that order. I obtained permission to-day to fill up onr water casks, also those of the Teaser, under this flag of truce, as we have others besides our own crew to provide for. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, CHAS. II. BROWN, Commanding U. S. S. C~eur de Lion. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Commanding Second Division Potomac F lotilla. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, November 4, 1862. SIR: Agreeably to your orders from Lieutenant-Commander E. P. McCrea, adjutant Potomac Flotilla, I proceeded this morning to Nomini River [Creek], Virginia, for the purpose of ascertaining if there were any vessels or boats up the same that might be or had been used to violate the blockade. I arrived at the mouth of the river at 12 oclock in., and found but 8 feet over the bar at high water. Not deeming it advisable to proceed any farther with the vessel, came to an anchor and sent an armed launch, with howitzer and thirteen men, nnder the charge of Acting Ensign G. E. McConnell and Ambrose Bentley, third assistant engineer. I learned from people on shore that the river extended 17 miles inland, and believing that it would not be safe to send such a small force so far, I dispatched the cutter under the charge of Masters Mate J. H. Butler, with five men, with orders to overtake the launch, make a short reconnoissance, and return to the vessels. During the absence of the boats, pickets could be seeii plainly on a hill 11 miles distant. The boats returned at sundown, bringing with them a small sloop and a canoe that had been used to carry goods from Maryland to Virginia. The expedition went up the river about 5 miles, destroying two schooners that could not be gotten out, They also met a small cavalry force, but after firing a shrapnel at them, dispersed and ran. Land- ing they found the place to be a picket station, an account of which you will find in the accompanying report of Acting Ensign G. E. McConnell, also of articles taken, etc. 1 learned that there are other schooners up the river, and would respectfully ask for a larger force that I may be able to go to the head of the river. Hoping you will grant my request, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, W. T. STREET, Acting ]Iiaster, Commanding. Commodore A. A. ilARwoon, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. [Subenclosure.] U. S. S. JACOB BELL, November 4, 1862. SIR: In obedience to your orders I proceeded torday up the Nomini Creek with a launch and crew of thirteen men. About 5 miles up we discovered a large schooner hidden in a very small bay, so that nothin Page 149 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 149 but her topmasts showed. Not being able to get her out I set fire to her. She was called the Robert Wilbur. I also found a small schooner partly hauled up on the beach, opposite a small brick church. We fired her, thinking she might possibly be used by the rebels. I could not find any name on her. While we were firing this vessel a party of meu appeared oii a bluff near us. I fired a 1k-second shrapnel from the howitzer, which dispersed them. We then landed at the church and saw three cavalry soldiers mount and run. Not being able to overtake them they escaped. On entering the building I found it had beeii nsed as a picket station, and captured in it the following articles, viz: One cavalry sword, 1 cav- alry rifle, 1 cavalry bridle, 1 set of spurs, 1 double-biirrel shotgun fixed for cavalry service. In the yard was a large, heavy wagon which had been used to trans- port a cutter from Fredericksburg to the creek. From information received I think the boat is the one captured some time since by the T. A. Ward. We cut all the spokes of the wheels and set fire to the carriage. It had the following painted on the carriage, viz: U. S. III, Stevenson, builder, N. Y. It now being very near sundown I deemed it inadvisable to proceed any farther up the creek, as I had good reasons to believe there was a force of the enemy near by. I accordingly stood down and captured a sloop and large canoe, with o arlocks muffled, which were hidden in the bushes. When about 4 miles down I noticed that some three or four men were following, but did not molest, as they also took good care to keep out of our range. Acting Masters Mate J. II. Butler, with a boats crew of five men, joined me when about halfway up and assisted in destroying the vessels named. Acting Third Engineer Ambrose Bentley accompanied me in the launch according to your orders. Hoping I fulfilled my instructions to your satisfaction, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, (~. E. MCCONNELL, Acting Ensign, U. S. Navy. Acting Master W. T. STREET, Commanding Jacob Bell. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy- commanding Potomac Flotilla, to ass~~n~e responsibility for the Depart, ment in deciding individual cases of breach of blockade. NAvy DEPARTMENT, November 6, 1862. SIR: Your letter concerning Mr. Quesenbury has been received. It has been the intention of the l)epartment to leave the whole matter of comniunicating with the Virginia shore on the Potomac to the comman- der of the flotilla, as being better advised of its effect upon the police arrangements that have been or may be established than the Depart- ment can possibly be. You are authorized to afford protection and assistance to loyal citi- zens when you shall judge it expedient and it can be done without det- riment to the public service. You will investigate individual cases and act according to your best judgment, making proper discriminations Page 150 150 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Under this rule, the case of Mr. Quesenbury is respectfully referred to you. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. List of stations in the Potomac Rirer. GENERAL ORDERS, No. 9.] NOVEMBER 6, 1862. The following are to be known as stations ou the Potomac River, alpha- betically arranged, and to be occupied by at least one vessel constantly, and not to be withdrawn. save by the commanding officer of division, aiid for a specific purpose, which purpose is to be reported to the com- mander in chief at the earliest opportunity for approval: List of stations. Station A.Alexandria to indian Head. Station B.Jndian head to Liverpool Point. Station 0.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Md. Station D.Popes Creek, Md., to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretons Bay to St. Georges Island. Station U.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point light-ship. Station 11.Smiths Point, Va., to Piankatank River, including Rap- pahannock River. The iames of vessels in their respective stations to be furnished to the adjutant of the flotilla. In future, officers capturing prizes or prize goods will proceed to the navy yard with the said prizes and report themselves to the commander in chief and ready to make an affidavit as to the facts concerning the capture to the district attorney, according to law. ANDREW A. ilARwooD, Commodore, Corn ~nanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificates qf captures made by U. S. S. Teaser. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 8, 1862. SIR: I herewith enclose certificates of captures made by the U. S. S. Teaser, of the Potomac Flotilla, on the 6th and 7th instant. The prisoners uiamed in the certificates have been placed in the cus- tody of the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla.Certifcate of capture. Name and character of prize.Sloop; no name. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Philip Sheridan, com- manding officer U. S. S. Teaser Page 151 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 151 When capture made.November 6, 1862. Where and Jor what reasons.Chesapeake Bay; violating blockade. The cargo, ~f any on board.None. What papers found.None. Rernarks.Persons: Joseph Staches, $351, unconverted notes; Wil- liam Lilonthorn, $27, unconverted notes. NOVEMBER 6, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned sloop was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Teaser, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above (lesignated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. PHILIP SHERIDAN. Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of prize.Sloop Grapeshot. By whom and by uhat vessel capture made.Philip Sheridan, com- manding officer U. S. S. Teaser. lVhen capture made.November 6, 1862. Where and for what reasons.Chesapeake Bay; violating blockade. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Remarks.Persons: William Wessells, Virginia, $10 gold; Angelo Tayloc, Virginia, $20 ($10 converted, $10 unconverted); George. T. Bonille. NOVEMBER 6, 1862. I hereby certify that the aoove-mentioned sloop was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Teaser, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place designated, and that the above and annexed state- ment is true in every particular. PHILIP SHERIDAN. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting certificates of captures made by U. S. steamers A3ateliite, Teaser, and Thomas Freeborn. NAVY YARD) COMMANDANTS OFFICE, Washington, November 8, 1862. SIR: The enclosed certificates of captures of merchandise and pris- oners taken will inform the Department of operations of a portion of the Potomac Flotilla. The prizes and goods are duly reported to the district attorney, and the prisoners, together with the information relating to their arrest, to the military authorities. I also forward copies of the reports ~ of Acting Master Charles II. Brown, commanding the U. S. S. Ca~ur de Lion, and Acting Masters Mate G. E. McConnell, of the U. S. S. Jacob Bell, to Lieutenant Coin- mander McCrea, giving accounts of operations on the lower Potomac. Lieutenant-Commander McCreas letter t to me (a copy of which is also enclosed) contains a recomineiidation of an increase of the flotilla, to which I would respectfully call the attention of the Department. * See pp. 147, 145. t See p. 146 Page 152 152 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The vessels now at my disposal are rather few, considering the nature and extent of the field of operations, the pertinacity of the enemy in his attempts to obtain men and supplies, and the necessity of protect- ing by a moving force our vessels of commerce, which are obliged to auchor at times in places exposed to attack. Add to this that several of the most effective vessels under my com- mand require repairs at a time when the dock at the yard is in constant requisitiou and the calls for convoy and the forwarding of stores and dispatches. A few more small vessels of light draft, commanded by young officers of good habits, will greatly contribute to the efficiency of the blockade. I would also ask the Department to permit me to appoint another clerk, to enable me to keep up my correspondence. Acting Master Henry J. iRogers has been doing duty as secretary of the flotilla, to which he gives his whole attention, but I have full employment for another clerk, if the Department will sanction the appointment. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Corn manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosures.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of prize.One yawl boat, laden with goods, and three men, giving their names as William Bagby, of King and Queen County, Va.; James J. Leatch, of Hanover County, Va.; free negro, James H. Ashton, Westmoreland County, Va. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Volunteer Lieutenant P. Hays, steamer Satellite. When capture made.-November 2, 1862, 8 p. in. Where and for what reasons.Neals Creek [Soundi; found with goods for Virginia. The cargo, if any on board.One barrel of whisky, 1 barrel sugar, 4 sacks salt, 1 keg carbonate soda, 1 box shoes 1 box shoes, dry goods, crockery, etc.; 1 bag containing 7 hats, 1 piece gingham, 2 pieces calico, 2 pounds coffee, 6 pounds soap, remnant of cloth, 1 bag con- tainitig 7 pair shoes, 1 bag skeleton skirts, 1 bag shot, 5 tin pans, 1 box soap, 1 box candles, 11 corn brooms, 2 pounds powder, 1 jug molasses, 1 keg nails. What papers found.One memorandum book, invoices, receipts, etc., forwarded. Remarks.Eleven corn brooms, 2 pounds powder, 1 jug molasses, kept for ships use. The goods were taken in the boat; the prisoners were found in the woods guarding the boat; the captain of the boat made his escape. The prisoners state that they left Virginia for Mary- land Thursday night, October 30. SUNDAY P. lii., November 2, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned boat, prisoners, and goods were captured by the undersigned, commanding U. S. S. Satellite, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time amid place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. PETER HAYS, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding Satellite Page 153 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 153 Potomac Flotilla.Cert~ficate of capture. Name and character of prize.One canoe; destroyed. By whom and by what vessel capture rnade.Philip Sheridan, corn- maiiding officer U. S. S. Teaser. When capture rnade.November 2, 1862. Where and for what reasons.Rappahaimock~ violation of blockade. The cargo, if any on board.[None.] What papers found.No papers found. Remarks.Andrew J. Davis, Richard S. ilisby, John W. Camey, prisoners. The articles captured were trifling in amount, and were, by the advice of Acting Master C. II. Brown, of the U. S. S. (keur de Lion, turned over to the families on Gwynns Island, Piankatank River. NOVEMBER 6, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned canoe was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Teaser, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. PHILIP SHERIDAN. Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of prize.One scow, no name; destroyed, being of no value. By whom and by what vessel capture made.U. S. S. Freeborn. When capture made.November 3, 1862. Where and for what reasons.Found crossing the river from Virginia to Maryland. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Remarks.The following is the list of men, viz: Simon ilinly and J. L. Engel. These men were found in the river opposite Indian Head, supposed to be going into Maryland for the purpose of buying goods to run the blockade. NOVEMBER 3, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned persons were captured by the undersigned, commanding U. S. S. Freeborn, of the Potomac Flo- tilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, U. S. Navy. 0 Report of Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting certificate of capture. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, November 10, 1862. SIR: I enclose the certificate of capture of the sloop Capitola, by boats of the Resolute, First Division Potomac Flotilla. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. UARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GiDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Nary Department Page 154 154 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character qfprize.Sloop Capitola. By whom and by what vessel capture made.J. II Gordon mate, U. S. S. Resolute. . ,masters When capture made.Xovember 8, 1862. Where and for what reasons.Glymont, Nd. The cargo, ~f any on board.No cargo. What papers found.No papers. Remarks .T here was one man on the sloop at the time of capture. He stated to the officer that he was there for the purpose of carrying i)assengers and goods to Virginia, and if he (the officer) would go with him he would show him where the goods were concealed. After getting iu the woods he made good his escape from the officer. NOVEMBER 8, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned sloop Capitola was cap- tured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Resolute, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. JAMES C. TOLE. Instructions from Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Poto- mac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, command- ing First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding his command. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 13, 1862. SIR: I must draw your attention to the general orders issued by me, which I wish you to see rigidly enforced by all the officers of the divi- sion under your command. With this view you will visit each vessel of yonr division at periods not exceeding a month, inspect their geneial condition, and see that the circulars and general orders are obeyed implicitly. I wish you to see that the vessels are properly provided with signals and signal books; also that they have the steam alphabet and are exer- cised in using it. I shall endeavor to have the vessels of your command put in good repair with all possible dispatch. Meammwhile it is very desirable that all trading vessels should be watched in case they should be becalmed or drifted near the Virginia shore and reqnire protection. Keep the steamers moving, especially in the vicinity of points from which attack may be expected. Attention must be paid to the general order respecting coal. You will enquire into time neglect of the commanding officers of the Teaser and Eureka in this particular. It will be impossible to keep the account of the coal wharves unless the general order is attended to. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla Page 155 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 155 Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding arrested violators of bloc~de. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, November 13, 1862. SIR: I have to inform you that the following-named prisoners, Wil- ham M. Becket, U. Haxter, M. Girsh, A. P. Itobinson, John Benson, Edward Wilson, arrested in the attempt to cross from Virginia to Maryland by the boats of the Potomac Flotilla, were yesterday com- nutted to the custody of the provost-marshal. Among them was the discharged rebel soldier named William M. Becket, and a man by the name of Wilson, who is reported to me as having crossed from Mary- land to Virginia two weeks ago. These men had among them money to the amount $3,000, which is in my possession. I have the honor to be, with great respect, etc., ANDW. A. ilAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] Immediate.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 14, 1862. Place a steamer at the disposal of Captaiii Ulric Dahigren, of Gen- eral Sigels staff, who will be found at Alexandria. The steamer must be able to carry some cavalry down the river. Answer. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Nary. Commodore HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 14, 1862. Have a couple of gunboats with a competent officer to lay off Aquia Creek to protect the landing there. Let them be there to-day. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary ~ravy. Commodore ilARwooD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, November 14, 1862. The Leslie is returning. I shall send her down immediately to send gunboats to Aquia Creek. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, who is here, will be sent in her with instructions. A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY Page 156 156 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]IfcCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Sec- ond Dir ision Potomac Flotilla, regarding capture of sloop G. W. Green by U. S. schooner T. A. Ward. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, November 17, 1862. Siu: I have the honor to report the capture of a sloop and seine boat, laden with guns for Virginia, and six Drisoners, in St. Jeromes Creek, Maryland, by boats sent from the schooner T. A. Ward, of this division; some of the prisoners are supposed to be rebel officers. rfhe captain of the sloop says lie was allowed to pass by the guard ship at Baltimore, saying small craft did not need a pass. I do not vouch for the truth of the statement. To establish an effective blockade, we need many more vessels and the cool*ration of the custom-houses and a military force on shore. I would add that a mail for liichmond was found in the seine boat, which I forward. The names of the prisoners you will find upon the certificate of capture. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Letter from Acting Master Rogers, U. S. Navy, to provost-marshal-gen- eral of Maryland, regarding captured sloop U. W. Green. NAVY YARD, WASH1N~TON, December 5, 1862. SIR: In reply to your letter of the 4th instant, I have to say that the sloop captured on the 16th ultimo by the Potomac Flotilla at St. Je- romes Creek, Maryland, for violating the blockade is named the U. W. Green, and that a person named H. B. Hodges was on board at the time of capture. A lookout will be kept for the Reindeer, in accordance with your sug- gestion. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY J. I~OGER5, Acting Master and Sccretary of Potomac Flotilla. Provost-Marshal-General J. L. 1VICPHAIL, Baltimore, ]Jlid. Order of the Secretary of the Favy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, for the protection of army property near the mouth of the Rappahannock River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 17, 1862. SIR: The Quartermaster-General of the Army states that he has information that there is a considerable amount of Government prop- erty, princi~)ally wagons, in sunken barges lying along the shore near the mouth of the liappahannock, which might be recovered, and asks that a naval vessel may be directed to guard this property until Page 157 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 157 steamer can be sent to recover it. You will, therefore, please give such orders as will accomplish the desired end. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilAnwoon, Commandant Potomac Flotilla, etc., Washington, D. C. Report of Acting ]lfaster Provost, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Ana costia, regarding captures by that vessel. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Piney Point, Potomac River, November 17, 1862. SIR: In conformity with your suggestion, I ordered a boat expedition to St. Georges Island, of which the enclosed certiflcate* of capture is the result. One of the prisoners, George Williams, was formerly pilot of this vessel, and who was discharged for cowardice at Fredericksburg, Rappahannock River, at the time of its evacuation. I remain, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, NELSON PROVoST, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Adjutant Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding precautions against designs of the enemy upon U. S. vessels in waters of Virginia. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 18, 1862. SIR: Your letter t of yesterday, transmitting information from Cap- tain Case of the designs of the enemy to surprise some of our steamers in the waters of Yirginia was immediately forwarded to the officers commanding divisions of the Potomac Flotilla, in order that no pre- caution may be neglected against such attempts. Owing to the habits and imperfect military training of the majority of the subordinate volunteer officers, wluich renders them less vigilant after the fatigues of extra duty than if they had been brought up in the Navy, a successful attack on the smaller vessels of the flotilla might be expected, and has been anticipated by furnishing those stationed on the lower Potomac with boarding nettings, and putting commanding officers on their guard. More masters mates of good habits are much wanted. Those who do conduct themselves with propriety are, in some of the vessels, over- worked between the duty on board and that of rowing guard at night. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. llARwooD, Commodore, Co~~manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. * Not found. tSee p. 140 Page 158 158 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant-Commander ]JIcCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, of trunks found in flerring Greek. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, N 18, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that one trunk partially filled with pipes and pins, and one partially filled with felt hats, also 1,000 pair of wool combs, were picked np floating oft Herring Creek. I respectfully snggest, as they do not come under the prize law, not having been captured, that they may be sold at private auction for the benefit of the flotilla. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc., Washington Navy Yard. Report of Lieutenant- Commander illcCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, of capture made by U. S. S. Ceur de Lion. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Off Blakistone Island, November 18, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the capture last night by the guard boat from the Cvur de Lion of six white prisoners (male), crossing from Virginia to Maryland, having upon their persons about $21,000. I forward all this day. Names giveu by prisoners: Louis A. McLean, E. V. Stuart, William T. Littlepage, Hugh Rice, J. Wilson Hodges, A. B. Jones, J. S. Wallace. Two colored men, boatmen. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. ~. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander, Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARwOoD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. E. V. Stuart, North Carolina State bonds $9, 000 William T. Littlepage, Virginia State bonds, $1,000, $6,000, $500 7,500 Hugh Rice, not described 6, 481 J. Wilson Hodges, in specie 1, 228 A. B. Jones, Virginia State bonds 1,000 25, 209 Report of Captain Dungan, U. S. Revenue Marine, commanding U. S. revenue steamer Hercules, in response to request from the Secretary of the Treasury for information regarding shots fired by that vessel over the town of Urbana, Va., November 18, 1862. U. S. REVENUE STEAMER HERCULES, Baltimore, ~IJid., December 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor of acknowledging the receipt of your letter of December 16, 1862, asking the particulars of the occasion when we threw three shot over the town of Urbana on tile Itappahannock River Page 159 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 159 At 10 a. in., November 18, on my way up the Rappahannock I com- municated with the mortar boat No. 12, and received information of a small battery being near the town of Urbana. Also a request from the captain of the mortar boat that I would ascertain the truth of the report. At 3: 15 p. m. the same day I called all hands to quarters and stopped the steamer a half mile off the town of Urbana. We fired one shot over the place, which fell in the woods at least 1 mile beyond the town. We expended the other two shots at a bluff point which made well out into the river, for the purpose of trying the range of the gun. Finding no battery I l)rocceded toward the mouth of the river. My object in carrying out the request of Captain [Benj. C.] Dean, of the mortar boat No. 12, the commanding officer of the station, was solely for the protection of the Government transport, which shortly after was ordered up the Rappahannock. The only steamer which Captain Dean had at that time under his command had gone to the Potomac for coal. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. M. DUNGAN, Captain, U. S. Revenue Marine. Hon. S. P. CHASE, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington City, D. C. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, transmitting report of Acting Master Dean, U. S. Na~~y, coin- manding 1. 5. schooner Dan Smith, regarding shots fired over the town of Urbana, Va., by U. S. revenue steamer Hercules. COMMANDANTS OFFiCE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 14, 1863. SIR: Referring to the letter of Captain T. M. Dun gan, of the U. S. Revenue Service, to the honorable the Secretary of the Treasury, dated l)ccember 29, a copy of which was forwarded to me by the Depart- ment, I beg leave to report that Lieutenant-Commander McCrea was instructed to show Captain Dungans letter to Acting Master Dean, commanding the U. S. schooner Dan Smith. Acting Master l)eans reply is herewith enclosed, by which the Depart- mnent will perceive that the accounts of Captain Dungan and Acting Master l)eau do not agree; that Capiain Dungan brought a person by the name of Billups from Baltimore to assist him in bringing away his family from Virginia; that he (Captain Dun gan) communicated his purpose to Acting Master Dean, who made no objection, though, if he had performed his duty, he would have allowed no communicatiomi with the Virginia shore without consulting me, or at least referring the case to the commander of the division to which he belonged. Mr. Deans error in the point just adverted to proceeded, I believe, from inexperience and not from intention; he did not, however, accord- ing to his own account, authorize the firing on Urbana by the revenue cutter. Other complaints have reached me of the interference of the revenue cutters in the limits of my command. I have replied to such reports that some particular act must be alleged in order to draw official attention to the subject. I think, how- ever, it would be useful that the naval officers should be made awar Page 160 160 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. of the duties to which officers of the revenue service are limited,in order that there may be no unnecessary and unpleasant collision. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure. 1 U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITH, Station G, St. Marys River [Md.], January 8, 18G3. SIR: I would most respectfully state, in regard to the U. S. revenue steamer Hercules, Captaii~ Dungan came on board my vessel at Windmill Point, Itappahannock River, and brought a young man by the name of B. F. Bilhips, from il3altimore, desiring me to take him on board my vessel, stating he wished to assist the gentleman in getting his wife and child from Virginia, as he resided in Baltimore, and whilst on board my vessel he stated he wished me to take the gentleman on board my ves- sel. I told him I would do so. He then asked me to go on board his vessel, as Mr. Billups wanted to get his carpetbag, and whilst on board his vessel he asked me if there was any watering place handy to get water. I stated that [had just been up around the point and filled my water casks. And whilst on board his vessel he asked me if I had any objection to his going up the river; and supposing he only intended to go as far as Mosquito Point [Va.], I answered him no, but at the same time told him that he had better be careful as I had heard that there was a battery at Urbana, never supposing for a moment that he intended firing a shot or resorting to any unlawful act of violence. About 7 oclock in the evening he caine back, and two of his officers came on board and informed me that he had fired three shot into Urbana. I was astonished. The officers also told me that they tried to persuade [dissuade] him from firing at the time and that they told him he was doing wrong. The above are the facts as nearly as I can remember without the dates. Sir, I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. C. DEAN, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander, and Adjutant Potonwe Flotilla. Report of Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, forwarding report of operations of the Second Division of his command. COMMANDANTS OIIFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 21, 1862. SIR: Lieutenant-Commander E. P. McCrea has forwarded reports of the following operations of the Second Division of the Potomac Flotilla: First. The seizure by Acting Master Babcock, cf the U. S. schooner T. A. Ward, of a seine boat and a sloop in St. Jeromes Creek, Maryland, wi~th contraband merchandise and six prisoners, engaged in violating the blockade Page 161 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 161 Their names and the list of goods, with other particulars, are con- tained in the enclosed certificate of capture. Second. The arrest of John H. Robrecht, Vincent Crab, Enery Had- ley, and George Williams, and seizure of two canoes and a quantity of contraband goods at St. Georges Island, by Acting Masters Mate G. P. St. John in the second cutter of the Anacostia. Williams has bceu recognized on board the Anacostia and by Mr. Robert Walter, master pilot of this yard, as a pilot recently in the serv- ice of the United States, who was discharged for cowardice at Fred- ericksburg, at the time of its evacuation, He endeavored to mislead the l)arty in their search for iRobrecht, and when arrested himself used the most abusive and disloyal language. Robrecht is reported by Lientenant-Commander McCrea as having been engaged largely for some time sending goods to Virginia. Third. The arrest by the guard boat of the Ceur de Lion, of six white and two colored men crossing from Virginia to Maryland. They had upward of $25,000 with them, as will be seen by the enclosed copy of Lieutenant- Commander McCreas report.* The prisoners have been placed in custody of the provost-marshal, and the money, as in other similar cases, in hands of the district attorney. I enclose Lienteimant-Commander McCreas report,I in relation to the capture by boats of the I. A. Ward, already mentioned, as it confirms the opinioii, before expressed to the IDepartment, that more vessels are req llire(l to create an effl~ctive blockade. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enciosure.l Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of prize.Seine boat; no name. Sloop C. W. Green. Prisoners: IR. W. Browning, Richmond, Va.; William Willis, Baltimore, Md.; Hugh Spencer, Maryland; Captain L. Jones, Baltimore, Md.; H. B. Hodges, Baltimore, Md.; Joseph Daiger, Baltimore, Md. By whom and by what vessel captures made.Acting Master W. L. Babcock, U. S. schooner T. A. Ward. IV hen captures made.November 16, 1862. Where and for what reasons.St. Jeromes Creek, Md.; attempting to violate blockade. The cargo, if any on board.Eighteen boxes, 5 packages, 1 trunk, 6 valises, 2 boxes shoes, 4 cans castor oil, 9 cases shoes, 3 cases boots, 3 cases hats. Remarks.Having received information from the provost guard of St. Marys County, Md., that the within-mentioned prisoners and prizes were in St. Jeromes Creek waiting for a favorable opportunity to cross to the Virginia shore, I proceeded to the creek and captured them. Seine boats destroyed as useless. Sloop detained for ships use. ~Scep. 158. tSeep. 156. N W RVOL 51 Page 162 162 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. U. S. SCHOONER T. A. WARD, November 16, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prisoners and prizes were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. schooner T. A. Ward, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above d~signated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. W. L. BABCOCK, Acting Master. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Maqaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding prisoners. U. S. S. FREEBORN, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, OtT Aquia Creek, November 21, 1862. Sw: In obedience to your orders of the 14th instant, I have arrested Curtis (i-iimes and Peiiny Grimes, of King George County, Va. I send them on the Satellite, together with some other l)risoners arrested for violating the blockade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAcTAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore ANDW. A. HARwoOD, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore ffaruood, U. S. Yavy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting correspondence regarding cooperation for opening communication with the Army at Fredericks- burg, Va. NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 21, 1862. SIR: The enclosed letters from Major-General Halleck and Quarter- master-General Meigs are referred to you for action. The seizure of boats requested iii Gemieral Meigss letter can be made, turning them over to time quartermaster at Aqua Creek and taking his receipt tlmerefor. You are also authorized to move a snfficient force of gunboats up the iRappahannock to opeu commnunicatiomms with the military force in the n cigim l)orhood of Fredericksburg. Send a prudent officer in command. Very res~)ectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. [Enomosures.] HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, November 21, 1862. SIR: Your note of this morning is received. If it is desirable that the Itappahannock should be opemed as early as possible for quarter- master vessels for the supply of the Army at Fredericksburg, I will notify you as soon as the heights below that town are occupied by our forces. I return General Meigss letter herewith. Very respectfully, your obedient servantr ~ HALLECK, H. General in Chief. Assistant Secretary Fox, Navy Department Page 163 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 163 [Subenclosure.] QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washiugtou City, November 21, 18(12. DEAR SIR: There are a large number of fishing boats on the various landings on the Potomac. Rowboats of light draft and great breadth aiid burden, used Ibr carrying heavy seines. These I believe were generally seized by the Navy. If they are now in possession of the Government, they will be very useful at Belle Plain and Aquia Creek, where the attelnl)t is being made to land the stores for a large army oii a beach without docks. Can they be sent to that place~ 1~lease advise inc as soon as the Rappahannock is so occupied by the gunboats as to make it safe to send vessels loaded with stores direct to Fredericksburg. I doubt the possibility of feeding the Army and its forage with this weather, by landing on the shoal beaches of Aquia Creek and Belie Plain. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIG8, Quartermaster- General. ibm (I V. Fox, Assistant Secretary oJ the Navy. QUARTERMASTERkTENERAL~S OFFICE, Washinytoa City, November 21, 1862. SIR: Herewith, please find enclosed a copy of a telegraphic dispatch of this date fiomn Colonel Rufus Ingalls, chief quartermaster Army of the P4 toni ac, at Falmouth, V a., to time Quartermaster-General, conveying General Burnsides wishes that some light-draft vessels be held Ia readiness, laden with supplies, at the mouth of the Rappahannock, to be towednp when required by or under convoy of gunboats. Colonel Racker, chief quarter[mnaster] at this post, has been ordered to arrange his transportation accordingly. Please consider this in connection with my letter to you of this morning. 1 am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. [SubenclosureTelegram.] HI~ADQUARTERS ARMY OF POTOMAC, Canq near Falmouth, Va., November 21, 1862. (Received 10:10 a. in.) General Buruside thinks that some light-draft vessels should be laden with supplies and held in readiness at time mouth of the Rappa- hannock,to be towed up when required by or nuder convoy of gun- boats. The roads are already very bad. The pontoons for the bridges over this river should be towed up by gunboats to expedite matters. The depots at Aquia Creek and Belle Plaimi are working efficiently Page 164 164 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. All horses sent hereafter should come direct to Aquia. Please send as many horses and mules as possible withiii the limits stated in my letter. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant-Colonel, A. D. C., Chief Quartermaster. General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 22, 186210:20 a. m. (Received 10:21 a. in.) Can you give me an idea of the force required to coiivoy the army vessels in the Rappahannock~ I am very hard up for the proper craft for the blockade now. Curri- tuck is iii repair lying at tWe yard for want of engineers, two of hers baYing deserted. Please answer. A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant. lion. G. ~V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 22, 1862. I suppose the only thing to be feared is the riflemen on the heights just below Fredericksburg, and before those are passed the Army must clear them. G. V. Fox. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 23, 1862. Have the boats left for the Rappahannock ~ If not, dispatch them at the earliest moment. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARwOoD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. [Telegram.] HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, November 22, 18621) p. m. (Received at Washington 9: 13 p. 1.) Will it be possible for you to send two or three gunboats up the Rappahannock River to cooperate with this army ~? A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 165 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 165 [Telegram.] NAVY I)EPARTMENT, November 23, 1862. A force of gunboats was ordered yesterday to ascend the iRappahan- nock and open communication with your army. I suggest that you sen(l a force to clear the high banks of the river below Fredericksburg of the enemys sharpshooters. GIDEON WELLES; Secretary of the Navy. Major-General BIJRNSIDE, Headquarters Army of the Potomac. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 23, 18G211:4~ a. m. (Received 12 iu.) Orders with instructions were sent Lieutenant-Commander McCrea yesterday afternoon by the Baltimore, and most likely have reached him by this. The Carrituck left this morning but has returned disabled. I shall (lispatch the Leslie at once with orders for the Anacostia to take her place. A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY NAVY. Report (if Acting Master Dockrai~, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Reliance, regar. . t chase of suspicious longboat. U. S. S. RELIANCE, Off Alexandria, November 23, 1862. SIR: Your instructions by Acting Masters Mate Walters have been received and will be strenuously observed. Time reason of my sending the two schooners to the yard was on account of your verbal orders to me not to let too large quantities of goods pass. I very much need a field howitzer for the afterpart of this vessel, for, when heading to the ebb or flood tide, it is impossible to bring a vessel to with the bow gun, owing to the manner in which it is pivoted. My boat that returned from the yard this morning is now rowing in chase of a longboat that stood under the Maryland shore. Was hailed three times and had three shot fired at her with a rifle, to neither of which they paid any attention. I have ordered the boat to bring her back if they were obliged to follow her to the mouth of the river. A boat for this vessel is being finished at the yard. Will you please (lirect to have her furnished with mast and sail, yoke and tiller, as also every complete appurtenance l With such a leading breeze and tide a rowboat has hard work. If our boat is successful in catching this mu of the guard, I shall send same to the yard for condemnation. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. DOCKRAY, Commanding Guard Vessel, off Alexandria. (amnmodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Comm anding Potomac Flotilla, Washington Navy Yard, D. C Page 166 1(3(3 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Acting Master Dockray, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Reliance, of the capture of longboat New Moon. U. S. S. RELIANCE GUARD VESSEL Off Alexandria, November 24,1862. Sin: My boat arid men returned this morning, bringing with them the longboat New Moon, which ran by us yesterday p. in., being hailed three times, nl)d having three rifle shots fired at her, each one of which struck within a few feet of her. I got a schooner bound down to take our 1)oat in tow, and they succeeded in getting ahead of the longboat at Washington Reach. She was there hailed by them and ordered to heave to, but refused, when a rifle shot across her was fired from the boat. They finally succeeded iii getting her. Mt. Cole, first-class fire- man, had charge of my boat, and has done himself a great deal of credit for the promptness and energy displayed in carrying out my orders. He, with the boats crew accompanying the longboat, goes to the yard for examination by you, and from whom you will learmi all the facts. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. P. DOCKRAY, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. HAnwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington Navy Yard. P. S.There is a man on board the New Moon under very suspicious circumstances. His name, I tl~inl~, is Trask, jn(lging from an 01(1 l)a~S in his l)ossession. I send all the papers found with this. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. DOCKRAY, Acting Master, Commanding U. S. S. Reliance. Letter from Commodore flaruood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla~, to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, regarding cooperation with the army at Fredericksburg, Va. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAvY YARD, Washington, November 24, 1862. DEAR Sin: By the Leslie I learn that the Anacostia had gone for the Rapl)ahannock before my last order reached McCrea. I-here are his dispatches to me: SUNDAY, 6: 15 p. in. Sir: The gunboats will leave immediately. 7 p. in. I hope to be in Fredericksburg on Tuesday morning. In haste, E. P. MCCREA. I am afraid that not many seine 1)oats can be furnished, as we are in the habit of breaking them up to prevent the contrabandists from using them. I have given orders that as many as are on hand or can be seized are to be sent to the army people, as directed by the Department. Yours, in haste, ANDW. A. HARWOOD. Hon. G. V. Fox. P. S.I hope you will advertise officers who desert. Many a man has been shot for that same Page 167 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 167 Report of A eting Ensign McConnell, U. S. Navy, U. S. S. Jacob Bell, of a visit to the house of James J4aley, near Patuxent River. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Pat uxent River, November 24, 1862. SIR: According to your orders of to-day I proceeded to the house of Mr. James Haley, which I found to be about 3 miles back from the Patuxent River, and enquired of him what had occurred at his house the night before. He stated that at a late hour on Sunday night he was awakened by an officer and two white men, accompanied by two negroes. The officer said he had been informed that lie (Haley) had a rebel flag in the house, aiid he was going to search for it. After overhauling and tearing some of his wifes and childrens clothes without finding anything, the officer asked for all the written papers about the house, and after see- ing theuum informed Haley that there was some ~I7 ,000 worth of goods marked on them, and that he would be back the next day at 12 to arrest him. The officer the~~ left, taking about a pound of shot and 3 ounces of powder, which he had in the house, and would have taken his gun, but one of the men persuaded him not to. The house was vis- ited twice afterwards during the night, and the party said they had searched six other houses on the road. I found Mr. Haley to be a very 1)001 aiid ignorant man, not knowing how to read or write, and living in great wretchedness. I apologized to him for the conduct of the officer, and returned the papers, shot, and powder as you directed. I am, very respectfully, your obedieiit servant, G. E. MCCONNELL, Acting Ensign. Acting Master XV. T. STREET. Report qf Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, trausmi tting certificate of capture made by U. S. S. Anacostia. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 25, 1862. SIn: I enclose the certificate* of the capture made of two canoes and their contraband cargoes by the boats of the Anacostia on the 17th instant, mentioned in my report of operations of the flotilla on the 21st instant. The goods and certificate were received by the Leslie this morning. I forward also captures made on the 8th and 14th instant of the fol- lowing persons: John H. Brown, Joseph Masenger, both arrested in passing from Virginia to Maryland. The following is a list of the names of prisoners captureq by the guard boat from the Cieut de Liomr,cro ssing from Virginia to Maryland, and referred to in my letter to you of 21st ir~+o~t: Louis A. McLean, E. V. Stewart, W. 1. Littlepage, Hugh Hice, J. Wilson Hodges, A. B. Jones, and J. S. Wallace. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. * Not found Page 168 168 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Acting Master Dockray, U. AS1. Na cy, commanding U. S. S. Reliance, referring case of captured skiff. U. S. S. RELIANCE, Off Alexandria, Va., November 25, 1862. SIR: I send accompanying this a large skiff boat, containing 4 bar- rels whisky, with the two men captured in her. She was hailed and brought alongside at 9:30 p. in., 24th instant. The men state they were hired to row it down here from Sixth street wharf, Washington, and put it on board a sloop off Alexandria, but are unable to give the name of the vessel they were to deliver it to, or the parties in Washington who sent them with it. Ju fact, they know nothing abont it. Under the above circumstances I deem it best to refer the case to you for adjustment. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. DOCKRAY, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potoni ac Flotilla, Washington Navy Yard. Weekly report of Lieutenant- Commander ]lifagaw, U. S. Navy, command- ing First Division Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. FREEBORN, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Qif Aqnia Creek, November 26, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit my weekly report: Nothing has occurred worthy of note. Matters on shore at the quar- terinasters and commissary departments of the Army at this point and Belle Plain are progressing finely. We have been of much assist- aiice to them, and they appear to have no anxiety. I applied for an army signal officer to the commanding officer of the post, but they had none. One or two have actually been sent to me, when cooperating with the Army. I hope to have one to-day, for, if an attack should be made, we might fire into our own troops. I beg permission to make some transfers of officers in my division masters mates who have not been ordered by the Department. It will add to the efficiency of the flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, at my suggestion, went over to Fal- mouth to see Major-General Burn side and have an nnderstanding before going np the iRappahannock. He (McCrea) left Belle Plain before day- light yesterday. I send General Burusides telegram* to me at this place. The arrests which you ordered have not yet been made (except Cus- tis and Penny Grimes), because I am doubtful as to whether I should go below here until the affair of the city of Fredericksburg is settled. Since writing the above I have seen Major-General Buruside. He was at the creek to-day. We have a perfect nnderstanding. I had also the pleasure of spendiug an half hour with his Excellency the President. Your communication in relation to taking army coal is received. I send by this mail the application of Acting Master Plunkett he is a gallant officer, and I hope he may have the Carri tuck, if she is in your gift. ~Not found Page 169 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 169 Lieutenant-Commander McCrea will not go up the iRappahannock above Port Royal without further information, etc., from General Barn- side. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore ANDW. A. HARwOOD, Corn dy. Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Report of Commodore Jiarwood, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding men captured on longboat New ]Jloon. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 26, 1862. SIR: I enclose herewith a permission for the ]ongboat New Moon to bri tig wrood and grain to and fro on the Potomac River, given by the Department last March, and also a permit given by myself in September. The New Moon was seized in the attempt to go down the river with- out a pass, her drunken master refusing to stop, although several shots were fired at him to bring him to. his papers were regular from the custom-house, but he had three more persons on board the vessel than were found in the crew list. Two of these extra hands, who were without passes to go down the river, were discharged from the old capitol prison in August; upon tak- iiig the oath of allegiance. They say they were employed by the master of the New Moon to cut wood. The third had been an army teamster, an individual of very unprepossessing appearance, who could give no satisfactory account of himself. I have committed the persons found on board the vessel to the cus- tody of the proi~ost-marshal, and the papers to the district attorney. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, with enclosure, regarding coal. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 27,. 1862. SIR: I enclose a copy of my letter of the 18th instant, requesting the navy agent at Philadelphia to supply the coal required for the Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea writes that he has written two weeks ago to the agent to send the coal, but none has arrived. I have sent a telegram to Mr. Chambers to hurry on the supply. 1 take the opportunity to inform the Departmeht that whatever interference may have taken place with the coal transports of the Army, it must be imputed to the necessity of moving immediately to the sup- port of the Army Page 170 170 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I have given orders not to interfere with the army transports, and shall refer the officers to General Buriiside in case any extreme ~var~t of coal should make it necessary to borrow coal before the naval supplies reach the depots of the Potomac. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy. [Endorsement.] Whenever the commandant of the flotilla has requested coal to be sent to the flotilla the order has irmuediately been given. The bureau ordered coal to be shipped to the flotilla the 22d instant. A. II. FoorE, Chief of Bureau. LEnclosure.] COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, November 18, 1862. SIR: I have to request that you will cause to be shipped to the Potomac Flotilla, as early as practicable, another cargo of anthracite coal for steamers use, the vessel to report to the guardship near mouth of the river, as directed by the Bureau of Construction, etc., about the first of October, ultimo. As there is some difficulty about leaving part of the cargo with the flotilla and bringing the remainder to this yard, I request that a whole load be sent to the flotilla. Respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. HARWOOD, JAMES S. CHAMBERS, Esq., Commodore, etc. Navy Agent, Philadelphia. Report of Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, U. . Navy, commanding & c ond Dsvmsson Potomac Flotilla, regarding coal. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Rappahannock River, off Port Royal, November 27, 186211 p. m. SIR: Upon reflection, the necessity for having coal is extreme. I have ordered the Dragon to leave immediately for the Potomac, and to tow any coal vessel around here. The guard ship at Piney Point will know if she is successful or not. I must act iii this way, for I shall be helpless otherwise. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc Page 171 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 171 Report of Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, of his arrival in the 1?appahannock River, and regarding coal for the vessels of his command. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Rappahannock River, off Port Royal, November 27, 18G2. SIR: I have the honor to report the following: 1 arrived this morning at 5a.m. with the gunboats Currituck, Anacostia, Owur dv Lion, Jacob Bell, and Dragon. I was en route 6 miles farther above for an anchorage, but was stopped by receiving a message from Major-General Buruside, through an aid, desiring me to remain here until further orders. I was delayed in reaching even this point by the very low tides of the river, and slowness of the vessels generally. I informed Major-General Buruside, immediately npon my arrival here, that I would await further instructions. I would inform you that the suddenness of the move to this river, and the absence of the storeship at the time, prevented a replenishing of-provisions, etc. But in justice to myself and the commanding officers I would say that I have written and rewritten constantly for the last three weeks for coal, but as yet none had arrived previously to our leaving the Potomac; the vessels conseqnently left without coal, and are in a degree inefficient. I had no alternative but to proceed to the Rappahannock, according to your dispatch of November 22. It is now necessary that a coal vessel be immediately dispatched to this point, under guard of a gunboat, or as your judgment will dictate, for this squadron, as one or two vessels have only one days coal. As adjutant of the flotilla I can not be held responsible for the present inefficiency of the vessels, as my official dis- l)atches, as well as my private letters, will show that I have required it and written myself to the navy agent at Philadelphia for coal. Your general order prohibiting tne taking of coal from passing vessels, with- out actually necessary, I adhered to as long as possible; but upon receiving your dispatch of November 22 I was thrown upon my own judgment and disobeyed the order, and took 30 tons of coal froni a schooner belonging to the Army, even under the protest of her captaiti. Time was too valuable, I considered, distance too great for me to refer the matter to you as my commander in chief; therefore I had to decide; 50 1 have assumed the responsibility. I have done all for the best, and trust I will not merit your displca~ure. As it was I was obliged to take all the coal possible from the Wyandank and Teaser to put on board the vessels that came with mime. I knew the importance of my going to the Ital)pahannock, having conferred personally with General Buruside, and, in my opinion, an officer in my then position, and thrown upon his own resources, must decide in his own opinion to the best advantage, when he knows what he is deciding is not known to his commander in chief at the moment, and is unable to inform him for speedy instructions and possible nonaccomplishment of the desired result. The absence of the paymasters steward of this vessel, an dthe pay- master and paymasters steward of the Currituck, renders their pro- vision account, upon examination, lower than estimated. Consequently they want provisions. I would report the paymaster of the Currituck for sending his steward (his son) home without the knowledge of his commanding officer, and for a general unofficer-like arrangement of mat- ters upoim his leaving the vessel, condemned by medical survey, or upon leave of absence for two weeks, I am unable exactly to understan Page 172 172 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. which. In fact, the general internal routine of the vessels is so com- plicated in regard to leaves of absence that I hesitate to report officers but would rather state the facts. As adjutant, it is extremely difficult to state the actual occurrences of the flotilla for the vessels, or acts committed by their officers, when it seems almost impossible to get reports in detail from the commanding officers. I would state two instances: I understand during a fight inshore at Piankatank that one of the masters mates, or an officer in the expedition, deserted his boat and returned to his vessel in a canoe. Again, that the revenue steamer Hercules was permitted to pass the vessels at the mouth of the kappa- hannock, when she proceeded up the river and threw three shells into the unoffending town of Tappahannock [Urbana].* These are facts that come to inc indirectly, days or weeks after their occurrence, and render it somewhat difficult for me to use them. I would, though, now respectfully suggest that the commanding officer of the said steamer Hercules be arrested and severely punisheddismissed, if possible, for so flagrant an outrage. I would also suggest that an order be given by the honorable the Secretary of the Navy that the revenue vessels are not to come in the waters within the limits of your command, except in cases of stress of weather, or disabled; for they are impudent and care- less, and their acts, good or bad, go to the credit of the Potomac Flotilla. I trust that [there is] nothing in this, my dispatch, but the proper rel)ort of of me, your adjutant, and with all respect due to opinions you, my commander in chief I earnestly hope you will dispatch coal an(l provisions. I (10 not know how long I shall remain here, as I am waiting instructions for cooperating with the Army. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MaCREX, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. ilAliwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc. Unofficial report of Lieutenant-Commander MicCrea, U. S. Navy, com- manding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding the urgent need of coal. U. S. S. JACOB BELL November 1862. 28, Mv DEiVR C~ MMODORE: I send this by an aid to headquarters for mailing. We are in a tight place, should we get the worst of it. I think from Tappahannock to this place there should be a line of gun- boats to prevent batteries being erected below us and to guard our sup- plies. The storeship must come up immediately. We might fill up for six weeks and send her directly back, but coal we must constantly have. It is a bad river to send such boats as these, carrying six days coal. I should think some of the regulars should be here. The contraband trade is hardly working now across the Potomac, and I think the Yankee could be sent here, and Aquia Creek held by the mortar schooners and one steamer; it is so important to have suf- ficiemit force here. I sent the Dragon to seize a coal vessel and bring her here. 1 will send her out the river as soon as we are filled up; she may not be suc- cessful in finding one, and we must wait one from you. In the confusion of the move to this point I was obliged to go on board the Currituck from the Ella, the Jacob Bell being absent. All See pp. 158160 Page 173 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 173 my things are on board the Ella, as I had moved on board the day befrre I received your order to visit all the vessels. I have nothing ~vith me but a clean shirt. Should the Ella be seiit from your corn- inaiid (transferred), would you do me the favor to have my things stored at the yard till they can reach me? She might come around here with the gumiboat aud go back with the Wyandank. She has her ordnance on l)oard, which I presume we will need shortly. Please send as many cartridges as shell, etc. The enemys pickets are a few yards from ns, constantly on the pier at Port Royal, but no trouble as yet. I will communicate with you as soon as possible again. Very truly, yours, E. P. MCCREA. [Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla.] [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 28, 1862. (Received 1:45 p. in.) McCrea telegraphs from Port Royal on the Rappaliannock River that the gunboats need coal immediately, some having only one days [sup- ply]. No supply has been received on the lower Potomac from Phila- delphia, and I have no answer either to letters or telegrams from the agent. Provisions are needed. Shall the Wyandank move round to the Rappahannock? A. A. ilARwooD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, Kovember 28, 1862. Send the iVyandank round to the Rappahannock, and if the army vessels there have coal, apply to General Bnrnside for a supply. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 28, 1862. (Received 3:15 p. in.) The Satellite will be ready to leave the yard by 8 oclock to-morrow. 1 will send orders to the Wyandank to go round to the Rappahannock, provision the gunboats there and return, and for any coal vessels from Philadelphia which are due to be towed round also. If the Depart- ment can insure an immediate supply of coal for the gunboats from any quarter it will be well. I have no dispatch vessel or I would send the order this afternoon. A. A. llAI~woon, Commodore. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Page 174 174 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 28, 18G2. Take any vessels you have or can charter and load them with coal from the navy yard and send to our vessels, provided General Burn- side can not furnish. Are the depots you have in the Potomac fur- nished with any coal ~? If so ,howmuch~ GIDEON WELLES. Commodore HARWOOD, Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 28, 1862. (Received 5: 15 p. in.) The depots in the Potomac ought to have coal, but I have had no returns. I have directed Lieutenant-Commander Magaw to tow the vessels which ought to be coming from Philadelphia round to the Rap- pahannock as they arrive. I have no vessels here, but will endeavor to charter some. Satellite will leave the yard at 8 a. in. A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. SECRETARY NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 29, 1862. (Received 2: 36 p. in.) Mortar schooners on the Potomac: Adolph flugel, Aquia Creek; Dan Smith, Poseys Bluff;. C. Manyham guard vessel, Piney Point; T. A. Ward, Bretons Bay. All but the last have recently come round from Baltimore, where I understand they were repaired. A. A. HARWOOD. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Jfagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding coal and other matters. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Off Aquia Creek, N 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of yonr letter of yesterday, and enclosures. I am not positive how many vessels Lieutenant-Commander McCrea took up the Rappahannock with him; four, I think. I hope to hear from bun to-day from General Burnside. The Army has two steamers between here and Washington, the Wilson Small and Nellie Baker. They leave foot of Sixth street at 8 a. in. and 1 p. m. In case you wish to communicate, you will find the masters of these boats obliging and careful. I am sorry you should have been annoyed about coal and with com- plaints from the .Army, whose vessels I have had occasion to assis Page 175 OPERATLON~ ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 175 1)0th with coal and otherwise very often. To my knowledge no coal has been taken from the Army except by Lieutenant-Commander McCrea the other night, and that was at my suggestion and a case of necessity. Then only 20 tons were taken from a schooner (aground) having some 200 tons on board. 1 oclock p. m.I have just received a message* from General Parke, which I enclose. Report says we had two squadrons of cavalry captured last night some place on the north fork of the iRappahannock. Very respectfully, your ol)edient servant, SAMUEL IIVIAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington, 1). C. Instructions from Commodore Harwood, U. & Navy, commanding Poto- mac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, U. AS. Navy, command- ing & cond Division, regarding the affair~ of his command. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 30, 1262. SIR: Your letter of the 27th instant from Port Royal has been received. I had received previously intelligence of your want of provisions and coal and sent orders that the Wyandank should immediately proceed to the iRappahannock, supply the vessels with provisions, and return. I wish you to send her back as soon as her mission has been accom- pushed. With regard to coal, there seems to have been some delay in forwarding that article from Philadelphia, arising from a change in the persons charged with that duty. Captain Henry A. Adams has been appointed as general agent for the purpose, and a supply for the depots on the river is now on its way. I have sent aim order to tow the first vessel that arrives at the month of the Potomac to the IRappahannock at once. I have written to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw to tell you to request General Burnside to supply your imiiiediate wants if not otherwise met, and semit a telegram to you to the same effect. To make assurance doubly sure, have chartered a schooner capable of harrying 150 tons, which shall be put in here and towed round to you as soon as possible. She will leave this yard on Tuesday morning. it; as I suppose may be the case, a greater quantity may reach you than you require, you will send the surplus back, with or(Iers to land it on the most convenient coal wharf on the Potomac, taking care to send orders that a sufficient force be taken from any vessel of the flo- tilla to assist in unloading the transport, and thus lessen the expense of demurrage. With regard to the supply of coal for the flotilla, I am aware that you used all proper exertion to provide for it in time, and if the letter of my instructions forbidding it to be taken from passing vessels was disregarded, the spirit of a later order to you to move at once to the IRappahanuock for the protection of the army transport fully exoner- ated you from blame. Your action in the matter is therefore approved by me. The absence of the paymaster and his steward, together with the cir- cumstances attending it, were all made known to the Department on ~Not found Page 176 176 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. her departure from the yard. The other irregularities you mention, including those in reference to the revenue vessels, shall be taken in hand. I shall send the Ella to Aquia Creek to-morrow (December 1) and request Lieutenant-Commander Magaw to use her for general coinmu- nication with the flotilla and to keep me advised of his and your movements. Send me any intelligence you may think of interest by telegraph that I may keep the Departmeiit informed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A.. flAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander .En. P. MCCREA, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. P. S.You will please explain why the ammunition called for by your telegram of the 25th instant, which was promptly supplied, was sent back in the Ella. ANDW. A. ilAnwooD. Semiofficial report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, coin- manding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs at Port Royal and Fredericksburg, Va. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Off A quia Creek, November 30, 18627 p. rn. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that I have received word from General Sumner that the Army is in communication x~ith McCrea by cavalry, with two battalions of light artillery. Firing was heard to-day in the vicinity of (or direction of) Port Royal [Va.]. The Army is throwing up earthworks below Falmuouth Station, commanding Fredericksburg, but no knowing when the fight may take place. I am going out to General Burusides headquarters to-morrow for a few minutes. I send Acting Masters Mate [Chas. F.] Watson up with Mr. W. II. Garner. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore ANDREW A. JIARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington. Instructions from Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Poto- mac Flotilla,to Lieutenant- Commander ]Iliagaw, U. S. Navy, command- ing First Division, regarding the affairs of his command. NAVY YARD, WASHING-TON, November 30, 1862. SIR: Yours of the 29th instant was received yesterday. A letter of Lieutenant-Commander McCrea reached me at the same time, by which I learn that he has with him the Currituck, Anacostia, Ca3ur de Lion, and Dragon. I hope the quantity of coal he tells me he wasobliged to take from the Wyandank has not delayed her in hem trip to supply him with stores Page 177 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 177 Coal is oii its way from Philadelphia, and a cargo will leave here on Tuesday l)y a schooner chartered for the purpose, which I wish you to have sent under sufficient convoy to the Rappahannock, unless you know positively that a supply has reached the vessels in that river. Iii case of positive information on that head the schooner can be dis- charged at one of the coal wharves on the lower Potomac, but nothing short of certain information that a full supply has reached Lieutenant- Commander McCrea must interfere with the precautionary arrangement just mentioned. I should feel relieved by knowing that the Wyandank had been dispatched with the provisions. if von are obliged to remain at Aquia Creek, send Acting Master Ives to see my orders promptly carried out and that all is going on right in the lower Potomac. The Teasers boiler was leaking, and I have kept her to tow the coal schooner down. The complaint about the appropriation of army coal proceeded from a quartermaster in Alexandria, and came with a very bad grace from that quarter, as I had assisted him liberally. I am sorry to find by the morning paper that your ne~Vs of the cap- ture of two squadrons of cavalry is confirmed. Lieutenant-Commander Phelps reports that a party of his people on shore at Shipping Point saw two dismounted guns there, whet her spiked or not they could not say. He says some rebel cavalry were seen in the vicinity. I wish you would look into this and at least render these guns nnserviceable, as you can not tell at what moment they may be employed against you. I place the Ella for the present at your disposal as a dispatch vessel. Keel) me informed of any matters of moment, both with regard to your command and whatever other intelligence you may receive from the Rapl)ahannock. Send another vessel with the tug and her tow in case of accident, with orders to return to their stations as soon as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lie~mtenant- Commander SAML. MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Letter from Lieutenctnt- Commander ]IIiagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First J)i vision, to (Jommodore Jiarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs in vicinity of Frede, icksburg, Va. Private.] [U. S. S.] FREEBORN, Aquia Creek, November 80, 1862. DEAR SIR: Your letters by the Satellite are received. Do not give yourself any uneasiness in relation to coal. Your general order per- units us to take it in an emergency from vessels in the river. 1 have sent the Wyandank with stores and orders to take (if no flotilla coal vessel could be found) any coal schooner up to McCrea. We have had communication with McCrea, but by scouts. I will write him and send the letters to General Burnside, to be forwarded. 1 sent you yesterday a telegraum from General Parke, chief of staff. No coal had arrived at Plowdens wharf up to the evening of the 28th. NWRy0L5 1 Page 178 178 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I send up Mr. Garner and enclose a letter from Plowden in relation to him. If you can spare me the Ella I should like to have her. Everything here is anxiety and expectation. The fight of the war will come off in the vicinity of Fredericksburg. If you will send the two masters mates down to me I will see them properly distributed and report. Commanding officer of the Satellite complained that his flues had not even been swept while at the yard. Upon qnestioning him I found that Mr. [Isaac] Johnson, his senior engineer, had been absent and without leave. The Satellites fires were hauled for six days. I wish you would pnnish Mr. Johnson for neglect of duty. The line of telegraph is now open from this point to Washington, and I will let you know by telegraph if anythiiing of importance should occur. I am suffering with nervons rheumatism, with fever. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MA~AW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HAuwoon, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington. General report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of affairs on the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 1, 1862. SIR: I have received a letter from Lieutenant-Commander McCrea, dated November 27, in which he informs me that on the evening of that day lie arrived at Port Royal, on the Rappahannock, with the Curri- tuck, Anacostia, Cieur de Lion, and Dragon. He intended to go 6 miles farther up for an anchorage, but rec& ived a message from General Burnside desiring him to remain where he was until further orders. A later telegram received through Lieutenant-Commander Magaw runs thus: Lieutenant-Commander McCrea has arrived at Port Conway [Va.], all right. Port Conway is opposite Port Royal. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea writes nrgently for coal and provisions, which 1 hope have reached him by this time. I have given orders that the first coal vessel which arrived from Philadelphia shall be towed round immediately to the Rappahannock, and to provide for contingencies, have chartered a schooner to carry a cargo round as soon as she can be loaded and dispatched. The provision ship Wyandank was ordered round as soon as I was informed that the stock was getting low, and I presume by this time has reached her destination. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea writes that he was delayed in reach- ing Port Royal by the very low tide of the river. Both he and myself have urged the shipment of coal from Philadel- phia in season, and recently, in answer to a telegram, I received the only reply from the navy agent which has reached either of us, which merely informs me that Captain Adams had been ordered by the Department to superintend the supply of coal Page 179 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 179 Admiral Foote has given me such directions on the subject as will prevent future embarrassment on this account. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea reports that Paymaster Yorke, of the Currituck, sent his steward home withoat the knowledge of his com- manding officer, and that the provision of that vessel, which left the yard recently, was running low. Mr. Yorke, while awaiting a medical survey, expressed unwillingness to send in his Tequisition for provisions, expecting to be condemned and iiot wishing to incur a responsibility ~vhicli he could avoid, but was informed that he could not be exonerated from this duty until his case was decided. Complaint is made of a general want of arrangement in the affairs of his department. A report has reached me that the revenue steamer Hercules went up the Rappahannock and threw three shells into the town of Tappahannock [Urbana].* As there appears no good object gained by proceedings like this, and it appears to have beeii done without reference to superior military or naval authorities, I have thought it my duty to report the circumstances to you, in order to prevent officers from coming within the limits of umy command and acting without reference to those who are deputed by me to execute your orders. Any mere act of wantonness or unnecessary destruction committed by a vessel carrying guns would be iiaturally imputed to the flotilla, and I feel assured if the commander of the iliercules had been ordered to cooperate with the Navy, his instructions to do so would have been made known to me. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting ifaster illcUowan, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. 8. Wyandanic, regarding eaptares. U. S. S. WYANDANK, Potomac Flotilla, December 1, 1862. SIR: The following-named men were captured last evening while crossing from Virginia to Maryland. The man 1-larinon was captured omice before by me at the same place, vi~ White Neck Creek, and I have every reason to believe is pretty largely engaged in the contraband trade. He is a mulatto, and the provost-marshal released him on that account before. Name. complexion. Where from. Where captured. Elijah Silva White Westmorelaml county, Va --- White Neck creek. lliomaa liutler do do Do. Williaiu Harmon -. Mulatto do Do. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN MCGOWAN, Jr., Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington, 1). C. See pp. 158160 Page 180 180 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Instructions fro in Comm odore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy~ commanding Poto- mac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander ]Jliagau, U. S. Navy, command- ing First Division. NAVY YARD, WAsuINGTON, J)ecember 2, 1862. Sw: I send by the Teaser an unofficial letter* from Lieutenant-Corn- mander McCrea, and in relation lo those 1)Oints whicli it touches on which are important to the public service, I wish you to act promptly and decidedly. If you can spare the Yankee, according to Lieutenant-Commander McCreas suggestion, send her by-all means. I wish to be sure that the coal is sent with all possible speed and security, and it is perhaps better not to trust to a single vessel. The ammunition on board the Ella will be wanted probably. I send by the Teaser powder in cartridges, which it seems was left out in the requisition for the l)rojectiles. You will have to get these ordnance articles together and sen(l them round; the Ella or Yankee may take theni all. Return me the enclosed letter when you have acted on it. Keep in mind that the contraband trade must be checked by the pres- ent position of affairs; that all the force we can spare should be in the liappahannock to cover any ol)erations and to prevent the erection of batteries which might serionsly annoy us. Take care that every precaution be observed that the coal and ammu- nition reach the liappahannock speedily and safely. Very respectftilly, yonr obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Coinhmanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander S. 1\IA~Aw, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lientenant-Commnander ]Jiliagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division. NAVY YARD, WASH 1NGTON, December 2, 1862. SIR: I have just received a telegram t from Licutenant-Comniander McCrea, a copy of which I enclose. You can use your discretion as to going round and assuming the com- mand as he suggests. I have already written that I want a sure conyoy for the coal vessel; that it will not do to depend entirely on the Teaser. If you can leave Aquia without risk and go round, I think it will forward the service. Answer by telegram what you conclude to do. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Coin manding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAM F. MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Seep. 172. Not found Page 181 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 181 Order of Lieutenant- Co)unander Mc(Jrea, U. S. Nary, commanding Second I)ivis ion Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Shankland, U. S. Navy, to assume command daring his absence. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Rappahannock River, off Port Conway, December 2, 1862. SIR: You will assume conunand of this flotilla during my absence and until my return, without relieved by a senior officer. You will carefully cairy out the present rules and regulations of the squadron, and any you may make beneficial to the service. You will guard against any suddeu attack of the enemy, either by land or water, and see that the vessels are all ready against a surprise. Make any movement that will be of importance to the Government, but no useless expenditure of ammunition or life will be of avail without an important result. I shall endeavor to send supplies as soon as possible from Washington. You will communicate with Major-General [J. G.1 Parke, duet of staff Army of the Potomac, on all matters that partake of a cooperation on any movements of the enemy that you think proper, and you can also telegraph to Washington navy yard to Comniodore Flarwood anything you deem necessary. Be careful to use your judg- inent in cases of responsibility. Be sure you are right, then go ahead. Should I be detained longer than Ii anticipate, I will inform you, and also when you may expect my retnrn. Do not scatter the vessels or leave one alone. I think it better two should be together, or near enough to assist each other. The commanding officer on shore will afford you all facilities to com- municate with headquarters. RespecttPhly, etc., E. P. MOCUBA, Commanding Flotilla. Acting Master SHANKLAND, Commanding U. S. S. Currituck. Order of Lieutenant-Commander ]IfcCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Dicision Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, to assume temporary command of U. S. S. Jacob Bell. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 2,1862. SIR: You will assume command of this vessel duriuug my absemmee. Acting Master Shankland will be the senior officer commanding, until relieved by a senior officer, and you will confer with him accordingly. Observe to carry out the rules an(l regulations of the vessel and the service. Keep a sharp lookout on the enemy, and be ready at any time for him. Respectfully, etc., B. P. MCCREA, Comm anding Flotilla. Acting Master WILLIAM T. STREET. Instructions from Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, command- ing Second Division Potomac Flotilla, to the senior officer present, Rap- pa1~ annock River. HEADQUARTERS, December 3, 1862. SIR: Should ammy gunboats arrive daring my absence, you u-ill detain them until further ordeis. All vessels will fill up with coal, and a vesse Page 182 182 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. will be detailed to tow the coal vessel to the month of the river, when she will return and report to yon. All vessels will be held in readiness for service at a moments warning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Commandinq Flotilla. SENIOR OFFICER PRESENT, JiAPPAIJANNOCK FLOTILLA. Order of Lieutenant- Commander ]IlicCrea, U. S. Navy, to Acting Master Shanlclctnd, U. S. Yavy, in temporary command of Second Division Pot6mac Flotilla. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, December 4, 1862. DEAR SIR: I expect the Satellite, Teaser, Wyandanic, and Yankee around. Keep them until I return or Captain Magaw comes np. Send a vessel down to the mouth of the Itappahannock with the coal vessel, and let her return to you. Keep a bright lookout for the enemy. I shall return as soon as I can. Yours, etc., E. P. MCCREA, Commanding. Acting Master SHANKLAND, or SENIOR OFFICER PRESENT. Engagement at Port Royal, Va., December 4, 1862. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commandingSecond Division Potomac Flotilla, transmitting reports of commanding officers of vessels which participated. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Three Miles below Port Conway, Rajppahannock River, December 6, 1862. SIR: I respecffiilly enclose the reports of the commanding officers of the different vessels that engaged the enemys~fleld batteries day before yesterday. I had not arrived, but approve their course in falling back to this point to husband their ammunition. The Wyandank is aground about 6 miles below this point. The Jacob Bell and Teaser are with her. I may be obliged to use the coal schooner, now discharging, to lighten her. I hope not, however. We are well, and anxiouslly await- ing news from General Burnside as to his plan of operation or point of crossing. The enemy have rifle pits above Port Royal and artillery at several points above. There are five regiments, each of which have a fleldpiece. If the Army crosses far above this point, we will meet with loss in covering their crossing, but we are prepared. The Satellite, I learn, has gone out of the river, to wing the Dragon, her shaft being broken. Acting [Volunteer] - Lieutenant Hays would have shown more judgment had he sent the Teaser with her. I am every moment expecting the Yankee. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore A. A. HARWooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc Page 182A Page 182B UNITED STATES STEAMER JACOB BELL Page 183 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 183 LEncIo8ure.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off Pratts Point, December 5, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to report [that] at 4:15 p. in., December 4, the rebels oI)elle(1 fire upon this squadron at our anchorage at Port Conway from a battery about 2 miles down the river at a place called Pratts Laud- ing, and about half a mile from the river bank. They fired solid shot, which passed very close and fell about 500 yards beyond this vessel, we lying the farthest up. I signalize(l the squadron to get underway and open fire upon the battery and town, which was promptly done by all (the boats were fought underway). About 5: 10 p. in. the enemy ceased firing from their battery, but still annoyed us with small arms. Night coining on, and the shore from Pratts Point to Mill Bank Point being hard ground and the channel narrow, I did not think it prudent to remain at that anchorage, as we should be exposed to tbe fire of their riflemen during the night, an(l according to my instructions, 1 did not think the result of remaining would be of advantage to time ~overnment, but might interfere with the plans at headquarters. rfherefore, at 5:20 p. in., I signalized to the squadron to follow my movemetits, and started for this, our l)resent anchorage, in the following order: Currituck, (ikeur de Lion, Anacostia, and Jacob Bell. In passing Pratts house we received the fire of artillery from the bank, which was promptly returned by the steamers as they passed, and, I think, with good effect, but it being (lark I could not judge with certainty. As soon as we anchored, which was at 5: 45 p. in., I communicated with Major [Peter] Keenan, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who imiformed me that line had learned from deserters that there were five regiments of infantry, cavalry, and artil- lery encamped about 2 miles back from the river. Our present anchorage is 3 miles below the former one, and protected by a long piece of marsh, where I shall remain until we can get our supplies (coal especially). I beg to state that no person was hurt in the squadron, the Jacob Bell [being] the only vessel that was hit, which is mentioned in her captains report, which is hereby enclosed, along with the report of tIme captains of the Anacostia and Caiur de Lion. I beg leave to state that it was the unanimous opinion of all the cap- tains that we had better remain until our supplies arrived. I respectfully state that the officers and men behaved well while under fire. The following is the amount of ammunition expended on board of this vessel: Eighteen 6-inch shell for 32-pounder. 2 stand of grape. Fiftcen common fuse rifle shell. 1 stand of canister. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. F. SHANKLAND, Ac tiny Master, Commanding, and & nior Officer Present. [Iieutena~nt-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, U. S. Navy.] [Subenclosures.] U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Off Port Royal, Rappahannock River, December 4, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that at 4:-iS p. in., while the flotilla was lyimig at anchor off this place, [we] were opened upon from a bat- tery of the enemy situated on a hill about 2~ miles down the river Page 184 184 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I immediately got underway aud called to quarters and stood down the river and engaged the battery with 50-pounder rifle and 8-inch shell gull, the enemys shot all passing- over us. After firing aboat thirty minutes a second battery opened upon us from an elevation back of the town. Receiving at this time a signal from you to return to our former position, which 1 immediately did, and seeing that the steamer Anacostia was fired upon from the town, I directed my fire upon the same until darkness came on and was ordered to cease, and withdrew to a point of safety for the night. The enemy had ceased firing some time before. On our way down were again opened upon at Pratts BInif by a field battery. 1 immediately responded with 8-inch gun, 32-pounder, and 12-pounder. At this point I received a 12-pound rifle shot, which passed throngh the port sill of 32-pounder forward, but without doing any serious damage. I am happy to add no casualty occurred on board this vessel. I am, sir, very respectfully, WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Acting Master WILLIAM F. SHANKLAND, Commanding (Jurrituck- and Rappahannocic Flotilla. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Off Port Royal, Rappahannock River, December 4, 1862. SIR: About 4 oclock p. in. the enemy opened fire in two directions. 1 immediately got underway and respond~d to it instantly with 9-inch shell guns, 50-pound rifle, and 12-pound rifle howitzer. The firing con- tinued until dark, which was about an hour and fifteen minutes. My vessel was not hit or any one on board injured, the shots from the lower battery passing over Ine, with the exception of one, that struck along- side. On receiving orders to proceed to a safe anchorage for the night, aild as I was winding my vessel round to obey them, I was opened upon by infantry from the town, to which I responded with 9-inch guns, assisted by the Jacob Dell. About a mile below tile town I was opened upon at a I)lace called Pratts Bluff by a section of artillery. The shot passed over and about us, but we passed by uninjured. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON PRovosT, Actiky ]lliaster, Commanding. W. F. SHANKLAND, Acting ilaster, Commanding, and Senior Officer. U. S. S. CEUR DE LION, December 4, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report to you that at 4: 15 p. m. of this day, December 4, while lying at anchor off Port Royal, the enemy opened fire upon us from a battery situated on a hill about 2 miles below us 011 the south side of the river. All hands were immediately called to quarters, the boat hoisted, and we weighed anchor. We then com- menced firing from our 12-pound rifle at the battery, and opened with canister upon some of the enemy ill sight on the shore. We continued firing toward the battery, but as it was concealed and our only mark was the smoke from their guns, after a few rounds I gave the order to cease firing. Soon after this, upon being hailed by the senior officer on board the U. S. S. Currituck, I proceeded 011 board that vessel, and, in compan Page 185 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 185 with the commanding officers of the other vessels of the fleet, attended a council of war. It was thought best to change our anchorage, as the enemy had also commenced firing upon us from a battery back of Port Royal. I then returned to my vessel, and, following the (Jarrituek, we proceeded down the river. When nearly opposite Pratts Bluff the enemy opened fire upon the Currituck, and as we came in range they also fired at us from field- l)ieces and rifles, which we rel)lied to vigo~ousIy till we were out of range. Their shots beiiig directe(l too high, l)assed over us, doing no damage. Having reached a, place about 3 miles from our fOrmer anchor- age, iii obedience to signals, we came to for the night. At this time we have but 1~ tons of coal on board. The expenditure of ammunition was as follows: charges. 30-pound rifle 6 12-pound rifle 17 12-pound smoothbore 5 Total 28 I am happy to report that the officers and men behaved well while under the enemys fire. Respectfully, your most obedient servant, CHAS. II. BROWN, Acting Master, Commanding U. S. S. Cseur de Lion. Acting Master WILLIAM F. SHANKLAND, Senior Officer Rappahannock Flotilla. Supplemental report of Acting Master Provost, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Anacostia. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Three Miles below Port Royal, Rappahannoek River, December 10, 1862. SIR: Since making my last report of the engagement of the 4th instant, I beg to inform you that I have learned from Captain Barry, Eighth New York State Volunteers (cavalry), that the distant battery was dismounted by our guns, he having received this information from goo(l authority. I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Corn manding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding Flotilla. Supplemental report of Acting Master Street, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Rappahannock Flotilla, December 11, 1862. Sin: I learned yesterday that in the engagement of the 4th instant at Port Royal the large gun on the hill in the rear of Pratts Bluff was dismounted at the second discharge from our guns. As this vessel was the nearest to the battery, II got underway, ran down, and opened upon it with 50-pounder rifle and 8-inch shell gun Page 186 186 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. while the steamers Currituek, Anacostia, and Cwur de Lion directed their first fire itito the town. I therefore believe that said gun was dis- mounted by a l)rojectile thrown from one of the guns of this vessel. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding Bappahannock Flotilla. Report of Colonel Gregg, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Camp near King George Court-House, Va., Dec. 4 [1862110 r. m. CAPTAIN: I have just returned from Port Conway [Va.], to which place I had gone because of heavy cannonading there. This afternoon the rebels opened a battery on the gunboats at Port Conway. TIme gun- boats replied by an active firing for some two hours. Just before my arrival the boats left Port Conway and descended the river without communicating with my commamid there. Where they have gone, or whether or not they will return, I do not know. At the time of the firing, the enemy were discovered working on rifle pits above Port Conway. The abrupt departure of the boats made it necessary for me to change my dispositions at Port Conway; accordingly I sent the sec- tion to this camp, and left near the ferry 100 men. 1 regret that the boats should have left without taking or destroying two large tiatboats at Port Royal. These boats, directly opposite Port Conway, would cross over 150 men, and I had made frequent requests to have them taken. I have sent down the river to overtake, if possible, the boats and ascertain their destination, and to express my readiness to send back the section if they intend to return. The enemy may attempt to cross some force above or below; but, from a careful inspection of my pickets to-night, I do not doubt but they will fail to accomplish any- thing. My pickets in all directions, an(l about the several caml)s, are l)Osted nuder my personal supervision, and, if they do their duty, can not be surprised. Yesterday I had five boats destroyed below Port Conway. To-day I discovered one large flatboat above, and on this side, and had it destroyed. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MoM. GREGG, Colonel Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Captain A. J. COHEN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Cavalry. Report of Major-General Daniel H. Hill, C. S. Army. DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, December 5, 1862. [SIR:] I have the Imonor to report that the Yankee gunboats (four in numimber) have been run away from Port Royal, Va. Three of these were the imotorious pirates Paunee, Anacostia, and Live Yankee. The fourth was unknown. They carried 21 guns and had a complement of some 500 men. Captain [R. A.] ilardaway opened upon them with his Whitworth gun at a distance of 3 miles. They replied promptly, but findiug thei Page 187 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 187 range short attempted to approach him, but were promptly driven back under cover of the town by Captain [T. II.] Carter from the hills opposite it. Riflemen were placed to greet them above Port Royal, so that they were afraid to go in that direction. And now was witnessed an instruc- tive sight. These piratical cruisers which have bombarded so many unofferiding private residences and have carried desolation to so many l)eacef ul homes shrank from the wager of battle and kept close under the shelter of town, so that the flank batteries could not fire upon them ~vithont endangering it. Hardaway still kept up his ~)elting in front mitil dark, when they fled down the river. And now two 3-inch rifles. nnder the gallant [John] Pelh am, of Stuarts cavalry, placed near the waters edge, gave them a parting salute. I regret to add that he had one man severely and one slightly wounded. There were no casualties in the batteries of my command. This same gun of ilardaway, at Upperville [Va.], drove entirely off the field near IJpperville a Yankee battery of artillery and a large force of cavalry and infantry at a distance of 3~ miles. The restorers of the Union have made their trust so much in their long-range gnus that when they find themselves under the fire of a superior range they become demoralized and will not fight. I make this report to call the attention of the War Department to the extraordinary merit of the Whitworth gun in the hands of such a man as ilardawaythe best practical artillerist I have seen in service. lIe still remains a captain while officers never engaged have been pro. mote(l over him. With great respect, D. H. HILL, Jllajor- General Lieutenant-General [THO~1AS J.] JACKSON, Commanding Left Winy. Report of Brigadier-General W. H. F. Lee, C. S. Army. HEADQITARTERS LEES CAVALRY BRIGADE, Morse [Moss] Neck, Va., December 5, 18G2. (~TENERAL: I have the honor to forward Colonel Beales report of an expedition sent into Westmoreland [County], which, as you know, was entirely successful. (hi yesterday evening I heard that General Hill had ordered the Whitworth gun to a position near Pratts house to open on the gun- boats. I ordered Major Pelham to carry the two rifled guns of [M. N.] Moormans battery, under Lieutenant [Charles H.] Phelps, to the 1)051- tion near Pratts house previously examined by him with yourself After replying to the Whitworth gun for an hour, they steamed up and caine down the river. Major Peihamn waited until they were within 300 yards, and opened with deadly effect, putting two shots through and through one of the boats. They replied with grape, and one of the gunners had his leg carried off. I will~forward the name of the man. He behaved with marked gallantry and coolness. Major Peiham super- intended the guns in person. Very respectfully, W. H. F. LEE, Brigadier- General. Major-General J. E. B. STUART, Commanding Cavalry Division Page 188 188 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Endorsements.] HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIViSION, December 5, 1862. iRespeetfully forwarded for the information of the commandiiig gen- eral, whose notice is respectfully called to the gallantry displayed by Major Pelliam and the officers and men under his command. The brigade of Brigadier-General W. H. F. Lee is doing gallant service on the lower P\al)pahannock, and no opportunity to strike the enemy will be allowed to pass. J. E. B. STUART, ]IJiajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, December 5, 1862. Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant and Inspector General for the information of the Department. Four gunboats of the enemy had been lying for several days opposite Port Royal, and I desired to drive them ont of the river withont drawing their fire npon the town. A distant point, therefore, had to be selected to dislodge them, on which account I ~fear the boats did not suffhr as much as I intended they should. IL E. LEE, Uea~era1. Extract from report of Major-General Hill, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, December 24,1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the operations of my command aroand Fredericksbnrg. On December 3, my division was sent to Port Royal to prevent the crossing of the Yankees at or near that point. Four Yankee gunboats were then lying opposite the town. Rifle pits were constructed above the town on the night of the 4th [3d1, to prevent the pirates from ascend- ing, and Ilardaways Whitworth gun was placed on Jacks Hill, some 3 miles below the town, and his remaining two guns, with Carters Par- rotts, were placed on the hill due west of the town. Hardaway opened upon the gunboats about 3 oclock on the 5th [4th] instant. Finding the fire too hot for them, they fled back to town, where they were sheltered from Carters fire. Hardaway continued to pelt them, and to stop his fire (as is supposed) the ruffians commenced shelling the town, full of women and children. The town was partially destroyed, but a merciful God kindly protected the inoffensive inhabi- tants. A dog was killed and a negro woamided; no other living being was injured. Finding that Hardaways fire did not slacken, the pirates fled down the river; but now a worse fate awaited them than a distant cannonade. The gallant Major Pelham, of General Staarts Hor~e Artillery, had a section of artillery immediately on the bank of the river, and gave them a parting salute. He was greeted with grape and canister and had 1 man killed. There were no casualties at my bat- teries. From Yankee sources, we learned that the pirates lost 6 killed and 20 wounded. Whether they overestimated or underestimated their loss, I do not know. They sometimes lie on one side and sometimes on another. In a few days the pirates returned as high as Port Tobacco [Va.], with five more of their thievish consorts. Eleven rifle guns of Colonel [J. Thompson] Browns reserve artillery and all my division batterie Page 189 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 189 were brought down to the river under cover of a dense fog, and when it lifted, were opened upon them. The firing was bad, except from the Whitworth, and it soon drove them nuder cover of a thick growth of woods, where they lay concealed. We have learned from the same respectable Yankee source that three of the pirates were struck (one three times), and that a captain was killed and four or five other thieves knocked on the head. We had no casualties. * * * * * * D. II. hILL, Captain A. S. PENDLETON, Assistant Adjutant- General. Order of Acting Mc(ster Shanicland, U. S. Navy, senior officer present, to Acting Master AStreet, U. ~ Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, to reconnoiter Pratts Point, Va. U. S. S. CURThITUCK, December 5, 18G2. SIR: You will proceed with the U. S. S. Jacob Bell abreast of Pratts Point I Va.], for the purpose of reconnoitering. If you are fired into return it at once. Do not J)roceed up any higher. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. F. SHANKLAND, Acting Master and Senior Officer. Actiiug Master WA. T. STREET. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Miagaw, U. S. Navy, commandtng Second I)irision Potomac Flotilla, regarding efforts made to float the U. S. S. lVyan dank. [U. 5. 5.] ANACOSTIA, Oaken Brow, Bappahannock River, December 7, 186i2. SIR: The TVyandank is still ashore below. The Yankee, J. Bell, Sat- ellite, and Teaser, with a schooner, are at work discharging her. I am in hopes she will come off with to-morrow mornings tide. The ice formed this morning almost across the river. Two nights more like last may close it up. I learn General Franklins grand division is in this vicinity. I saw omme corps moving down this way day before yesterday. The Currituck amid Caur de Lion are here with me. I will write you daily. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commodore Jilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Ensign Wright, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. I)ragon, regarding reported attack upon that vessel. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 8, 1862. SIR: I wish to be informed whether in your passage from the Rappa- haunock to the Potomac the Dragon was aground and attacked by th Page 190 190 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND EAPPAHANNOCK. enemy, and if so how is it that the first intelligence of such events comes to your conimander in chief through the newspapersi Respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. JIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Ensign ItOBERT C. WRIGHT, Commanding U. S. S. Dragon, Potomac Flotilla. Report qf Acting Ensign Wright, U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. S. Dragon, denying newspaper report regarding attack upon that vessel. U. S. S. DRAGON, Navy Yard, Washington, December 8, 18G2. SIR: I have to report to you that the statement made in the Evening Star is without foundation and untrue in ev.ery particular. rfhe Dragon was not attacked and did not throw a shell into a boat, as is stated in the paper of the 6th. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBERT C. WRIGHT, Acting Ensign. Commodore A. A. HARwoOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Washington Navy Yard. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, Commandinq Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs on Ilappahannock River. U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow, Rappahannock River, December 8, 1862p.m. SIR: I have the honor to report that nothing worthy of note has occurred during the last twenty-four hours. The enemy appear to be in less force, opposite, in this vicinity. The Wyandank is still ashore, but by this time is discharged. I hope she will come off with this tide. We are well and waiting news from General Bnrnside. I sent the Currituck to the mouth to.day to observe and pilot up the Freeborn. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. IIARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc. Engagements at Brandywine Hill, Rappahannock River, Va., December 10 and 11, 1862. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of various engage. ments with Confederate batteries on the Rappahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 15, 1862. SIR: I beg leave briefly to report the proceedings of that part of the flotilla now serving in the Rappahannock Page 191 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 191 On the 4th instant the Gurrituck, A nacostia, Jacob Bell, [anQ] Cwur de Lion were attacked at anchor by a battery at Pratts Landing. The gunboats present got underway by order of the senior officer present. Acting Master Shankland engaged the batteries and silenced them. The Jacob Bell only was struck. No one was hurl~ in any of the vessels. To avoid a useless expenditure of ammunition and exposure to the riflemen who still continued their fire, the vessels were dropped down to an anchorage 3 miles farther down the river. In passing a place called Pratts house they exchanged shots with the enemy again, but as it was dark the effect could not be ascertained. Oti the 10th instant the Curritucic, on her return from the month of the I~appahannock, was opened on from Brandywine Hill and about thirty shots fired at her without effect. We returned the fire and pro- ceeded to the anchorage of the flotilla 3 miles below Port Conway. here the rebels opened fire on the gunboats from a battery about a mile north of the first. The Currituck in this second engagement was struck twice, the last time by-a Parrott shell, which passed through her side and exploded iii her fire room, wounding three men: henry Smith, fireman, mortally (since dead), Jeremiah Daley (coal heaver) severely; John McCluskey (captain forecastle) slightly. This shot broke blower, blower engine, and steam gauge pipe. The vessel is now at the yard for repair. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. P. S.Mr. S. A. Simmons, master of the coal schooner Kadosh, was mortally wounded on the 10th and died on the 11th. Rep~~rt of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, transmitting reports of commanding oflicers of vessels which participated in engagement. U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow Farm, December 10, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to enclose herewith the reports of the different officers in reference to the engagement of this afternoon. The object of the enemy was evidently to drive us down the river, iii which, however, they were not successful, and we still occupy the same position. My chief regret is the wound of Captain Simmons, master of the pri- vate coal schooner Kadosh, which was seized and bronght here through necessity. His wound will, in all probability, speedily prove fatal. The officers and men of all the vessels engaged performed their duties to my entire satisfaction. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore A. A. HARwOoD, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla and Nary Yard, Washington, D. C Page 192 192 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. CURRITLTCK, Three Miles below Port (Jonway, Rappahannock River, Va., December 10, 1862. Sin: I have the honor to make the following statement: At 2:25 p. in., on our return from the mouth of the liappahannock River, when abreast of Brandywine Hill, the enemy opened fire on us from the hill, firing some thirty shell at us before we arrived at this anchorage, none of them taking effect. We beat to quarters and returned the fire with our rifle gun. At 2:40 p. in. came to anchor. The enemy opened fire on the fleet from another battery about a mile north of tile first. At 3: 20 p. m. received orders to open fire with much elevation. At 4 p. in. a 30-pounder Parrott percussion shell struck our ship on the starboard side 20 inches under water, and as soon as possible we put a shot plug in the hole without ceasing firing. At 4:30 p. in. received orders to cease firing. At 4:35 p. in. a 30-pounder Parrott percussion shell struck our ship on the starboard side aft the main rigging, going through into the fire room and exploded wounding.tbre~ men, viz: Jeremiah Daley (coal heaver), compound fracture of radius of right forearm and compound fracture of cranium and contused wound of right foot, with partial loss of first, second, and third toes. Henry F. Smith (coal heaver), compound fracture of left femur at juncture of middle and upper third, and incised wound of face, laying bare left side of lower jawbone. John McCluskey (first-class fireman), slight contusion of back in lower region. Also broke blower, blower engine, and steam gauge pipe. I also state during the engagement my ofticers and men behaved nobly. At 7p. in. ship still leaking badly. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding U. S. S. Currituck. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MA~Aw, Commanding [Second Division] Potomac Flotilla, etc. [Subenclosure.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, December 11, 1862. Sin: I beg leave to report the following casualties occurring in my department during the engagementwith the enemys battery at Brandy- wine Hill yesterday, December 101 1862: First. Henry F. Smith, coal heaver; compound fracture of left femur, little below the junction of middle and upper thirds; lacerated wound of left side of face, extending from angle of lower jaw to middle of upper lip. Died at 2 oclock p. m. to-day. Second. Jeremiah Daley, coal heaver; compound fracture of radius of right forearm; incised wound of right hand, extending into first joint of first finger; compound fracture of the external table of frontal bone of the skull; lacerated wound of right foot, with partial loss of first, second, and third toes. Third. Johim McCluskey, first-class fireman; and Fourth, William Finnegan, first-class fireman, received slight con- tusions not requiring attention, nor unfitting him for duty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY JOHNSON, Acting Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Navy. THOMAS J. LINNEKIN, Esq., Acting Master, Commanding U. S. S. Currituck Page 193 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHNNNOCK. 193 U. S. S. YANKEE, Three ]Iifiles below Port Royal, Rapp((han nock River, December 10, 18G2. SIR: I have the honor to report that at 3 oclock this afternoon the enemy opened fire on us from a battery on the south side of the river. In obedience to your order I immediately responded with my 8-inch gun,32-ponnder, and 12-pounder rifle howitzer. I have reason to believe that our fire was effective. After ex~)endi11g eighteen 8-inch shell, t~veuty-one 32-pounder shell, and fourteen Schenkle shell, 1 ceased firing, in accordance with your order. I am happy to say that no one was injured on this vessel. I must say that the officers and men behaved admirably. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES W. TURNER, Ensign and Executive ()lficer, Corn man ding. Lienten ai it- Commander SAMuEL MAGAW, Commanding Flotilla. [Endorsement.] Acting Master Ives, commanding, was absent on duty at hea(lqua.r- ters. 1 was on board the Yankee. S. MAt~w, Lieutenant- Cowman (icr. U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Three Miles below Port Royal, Rappahannock River, December 10, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that about 3 oclock p. m. the enemy opened fire upon us from a battery on the south side of the river. In conformity with your order I responded with 9-inch shell guns and 50- J)ound rifle, with apparently good effect. After expending twenty-four 9-inch shell, 1, according to your orders, ceased firing. I am happy to say that no one was injured on board this vessel. I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MA~Aw, Commanding Flotilla. I would also say that both officers and me~i worked nobly. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Rappahannock Rivir, Va., December 10, 1862. SIR: To-day, at 2: 45 p. in., as I was passing from this vessel to com- municate to you, a battery opened upon the coal schooners lying near the Bell. I immediately returned, and belbre 1 reached the vessel one of the schooners (Sarah Minge) received a shot in her stern, mortally wounding Captain Simmons, of the schooner Kadosh. 1 immediately got underway and opened with a 50-pounder rifle and 8-inch shell gun. N ~T RVOL 5 1 Page 194 194 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The firing continued until 4: 30 p. m. Many of the enemys shots fell around and near its, but as they got our range would alter ont position. No casualty occurred on board this vessel. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, (Jomrnanasng. LieutenanfCominander SA MIJEL MAGAW, Commanding Rappahannock Flotilla. U. S. S. TEASER, Three Miles beiou Port Royal, Rappahannock Rirer, December 10, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that about 3 p. in. the enemy opened upon us from a battery on the south side of the river. i in accord- ance with your orders, responded with a 12 and 50 pounder Dahigren rifle, and apparently with good effect. After expending twenty-nine Schenkle shell, I, according to your orders, ceased firing. I ant happy to say no one was hurt on board of this vessel. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, PHILIP SHERIDAN, Ensign, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, forwarding report of casualties on board U. S. S. Currituck. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 29, 1862. SIR: Herewith you will find enclosed the certificate of the acting assistant surgeon of the Currituck relating to the wounded on board that vessel in her engagement with the enemy on the 10th instant. The case of Mr. Simmons was a l)eculiarly hard one. He was engaged in transporting coal on private account, and his vessel was towed round to the Itappahannock to supply an immediate need of the flotilla. While there he received a mortal wound, of which he died in a few hours. He leaves an indigent family, for which the flotilla has raised a liberal subscrii )tiOn. I think the case of this family worthy the consideration of Congress. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. IIARWOOP, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosnre.] HAPPAHANNOCK RIVER, Three Miles below Port Royal, December 10, 1862. SIR: I have to report during the engagement of this day the wound- ing of Captain Sam ael A. Simmons, * schooner Kadosh (fatally); also * Master of a coal vessel Page 195 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND T~APPAHANNOCK. 195 Jeremiah I)aley and Henry F. Smith (the latter fatally), of the IT. S. S. Currituek. I remain, sir, very truly, your obedient servant, GEG. B. TODD, Acting Assistant Surgeon, U. S. S. Yankee. Captain T. POYNTON IVES, Commanding U. S. S. Yankee. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, of attack upon Pratts Bluff, Bappaliannock River. U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow, Bappakannoek [Bit~er], December 11, 1862p. ut. Sin: I have the honor to report that at the request of General Burn- sid0 I made an attack this morning at daylight on the artillery of the enemy at Pratts Bluff with the Satellite and Jacob Bell. They left without firing a shot. I think they had just gotten intelligence of the feint to be made by a portion of Franklins grand division at Ski:ikers Neck. At the same time the Anacostia opened on the battery below that attacked us yesterday. They did not respond, and this evening there is no appearance of the enemy in our vicinity. The general wished its to make a noise and we did. Heavy firing has been heard up the river all day, and we are anxiously awaiting news. The general utay wish us to come to Fredericksburg, and we are ready at five min- utes notice. I sent the Currituck to Washington with the bodies of Captain Simmons and one of her own men, who died to-day; also one iiian badly wounded. She went in company with the coal vessels and llyandank. She is leaking. We are all well, and only sorry we could not have been at Fredericksburg to-day, but the general thought we were better off here. He has 353 pieces of artillery, 20 of which would cover his crossing better than we, as the narrowness of the river rendered our cooperation impracticable. The Freeborn arrived this morning. Very respectfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant. Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Flotilla. Additional report of Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Nary Yard, Washington, December 15, 1862. Sin: I beg leave to state that oti the 11th instant or the following morning at sunrise, Captain Magaw had the fleet divided into three (livisions and opened fire on the batteries that we silenced the iiight before, but got no reply; ceased firing: I also state that Henry F. Smith died at 2 oclock p. in., the 11th instant, of his wounds received on the 10th instant; also Captain S. A. Simmons, of the coal schooner Kadosh, who was wounded on the 10th, died the next day of his wounds. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding U. S. 5; Currituck. Commodore ANDREW A. HAnwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C Page 196 196 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Commendatory letter from Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, to Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Potomac Flotilla ,No vein ber 14,1863. M~ DEAR SIR: I am happy to say that your duties have been attended to during your service in the flotilla to my entire satisfaction. During the first battle of Fredericksburg, while we were at Oaken Brow, and attacked by the enemy, attempting to drive us from our position, you had the outpost picket, and the manner in which you handled the Jacob Bell, then nuder your command, elicited the admira- tion of the whole flotilla. If this little note can be of any service to you, it will much gratify Your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Acting Master Commanding W. TELL STREET, U. S. S. Yachsia. Order ~,f Lieutenant- Commander Jlfagame, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division. Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Curritack, to proceed to the Potomac River. U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow, Va., December 11, 1862. SIR: You will proceed with the Currituck without delay to the Potomac River and report to Lieutenant-Commander McCrea at what- evcr point you may find him on the river. I hand you orders for the Wyandank, now at Brisco [Bristoe~?] mines. You will act as convoy to her and also to the two coal schooners, until you meet with Lieutenant-Commander McCrea. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. [Acting Master THOMAS J. LINNEKIN, Commanding U. S. S. Carritack.] [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 11, 1862. Just inside of the month of the Rappahaunock River is a large quan- tity of supplies in barges and steamers. Let them be protected by a gunboat. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. IIARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, iVashington. Report of Lientenant- Commander iiiagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla Confederates. , regarding erection of cart hworks by the Unofficial.] U. S. S. YANKEE. Oaken Brow ; December 12, 1862. DEAR SIR: Our pickets have just brought me word that the enemy have thrown up earthworks some distance above Port Royal. Page 197 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAJIANNOCK. 197 depended upon the pickets for information. Had it been given me when they first saw what was going on, I could have prevented this building a battery; it is now too late. We are troubled with fog every morning until about noon. I send two vessels down as far as Fort Lowry, to examine, etc. We have news of the shelling of Fredericks- burg, and the attempt at crossing. It is not favorable. Yours, faithfully, in haste, SAMUEL MACAW, Lieutenant- Corn mander. Commodore A. A. ilAnwooD, etc. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WA~HTN~T~~, December 13, 1862. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw has received the order to protect the Armys supplies at the month of the iRappahannock, and has sent a ounboat there for that purpose. A. A. HARwOoD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Signals. U. S. S. YANKEE, December 13, 186212: SOp. m. Advance until you can see them, and use your discretion about shell ing them. Captain MAGAw. Captain STREET. U. S. S. YANKEE, December 13, 186212: 3Op. m. Assure yourself that they are not our troops. Captain iVIAGAW. Captain STREET. U. S. S. YANKEE, December 13, 1862i p. m. How many fieldpieces ~ Captain MAGAW. Captain STREET. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 13, 18621 p. m. One light fieldpiece and some mounted men. They have now (lisal)- peared in the direction of the hill, behind Pratts house. Captain STREET. Captain MAGAW. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Decem ber 13, 18621 p. m. Only one. Most of the horses went off riderless. Captain STREET Captain MAGAW Page 198 198 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. U. S. S. YANKEE, December 13, 18621 p. m. What (lid TOll see~ Captain MA~Aw. Captain STREET. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 13, 18621:15 p. m. No enemy now in sight. Shall I go back to the anchorage~ Captain MA~Aw. Captain STREET. IT. S. S. YANKEE, December 13, 18621:20 p. m. Return to your anchorage. Captain MAGAW. Captain STREET. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 13, 18625 p.m. We went to Pratts house and saw no enemy. Captain MA~AW. Captain STREET. Report ~f Lieutenant- Commander Afagaw, U. S. Aary, commanding Second I)icision Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs on the liappahannock Ricer. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow, Rappahannock [Rirer], December 13, 1862. DEAR SIR: We are still patiently awaiting a message from General Burnside, but I do not think he wishes us to attempt to get up until lie has a foothold on the other side. Yery rapid and heavy firing has been heard up the river almost all day; it must be considerably below Fred- ericksburg; I suppose at Skiukers Neck. The Satellite went down yesterday to look out for the army barges, etc. She will keep the Cieur de Lion, if she thinks it necessary. If General Ingalls intends to make this river his base for supplies, I think him crazy. He has a fine railroad from Aquia to Fredericksburg, only 15 miles, and this river will require pilots, towing, and convoy. I found a squad of cavalry at Pratts Bluffand sent the Jacob Bell up. She dispersed them with the third shell; they had a fleldpiece with them. 1 enclose some requisitions for ammunition, etc. We are not in immediate want of ammunition; these requisitions are to fill up. The Teaser is up from below and reports everything clear. She only saw a few of the enemys pickets (cavalry). Acting Master Street has behaved with great coolness and good judgment. I have put him in advance since the Satellite left. He is in temporary command of the Jacob Bell. Nothing positive from the Army up to 7 p. m. Very re~pectfully, your servant, SAMUEL MMIAW, Lientenant. Comm qnder. Commodore A. A. HARWOoD, Commanding Flotilla, etc Page 199 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 199 Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Second iNcision Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs on the Rap pahannock River. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow, Rappahannock River, December ~l3, 18628 p. m. SIR: I have the honor to report all quiet ill this vicinity to-day; only a few of the enemys cavalry pickets in sight. We received a message thjs afternoon of the success of General Burn. side, and at the request of the men cheered ship in all vessels in sight. I enclose a requisition of the Anacostia. Very respectfully, your servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, Commanding Flotilla, etc. P. 5.I expect a request from General Baruside to move up, and hope my next may be from Fredericksburg. S. M. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 15, 1862. SIR: Enclosed I forward for your information certificate of capture Iua(le by U. S. schooner Dan Smith, Acting Master B. C. Dean, com- nuan(ling, on the 30th ultimo. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of prize.One large, hat-bottomed boat; no name. One part chest of tea. Four kegs bicarbonate of soda. One large box of matches~ containing 46 dozeii in round wooden boxes, 30 dozen paper boxes in packages, 3 boxes fuses. Six boxes, containing 24 dozen boxes of saponifier or concentrated lye, I box and 7 bags col)peras. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Benjamin C. Dean; U. S. schooner Dan Smith. Where and for what reasons.At head of Floods Creek; contraband. Tue cargo, if any on board.INone.J What papers found.[None.] Rema, ks.Oue large, fiat-bottomed boat, worth less; destroyed. U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITH, December 3, 1862. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned articles were captured by tine undersigned, commanding the U. S. mortar schooner Dan Smith, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. BENJ. C. DEAN, Acting Master, Commanding Page 200 200 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Rqort of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. ~. Naiy, commanding gun- boats in Rappahannock Ricer, regarding proposed attack upon Port Royal, Va. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. YANKEE, Oaken Brow, Rappahannock [River], December 16, 1862p. m. l)EAR SIR: Yesterday, at the request of Major-General Barnside, we prepared to make an attack on Port Royal. J sent a message to the authorities (a copy and the reply is here~vith enclosed). As we were getting uiiderway this morning to go up I received the following verbal message from the general: We are recrossing the river, and both Colonel [Benjamin F.] Davis and yonrself niiist l)e governed accordinolv. I did not thereibre make any demonstration, as an attack would have resulted in the destruction of the town and no result. I expect another attempt on the part of the enemy to drive us down the river, perhaps to-niorrow. I have not heard from you but once; that was your tele- gram in relation to army transportation at the month, and you can imagine what the generals messages are, as the above will show. I shall hold my position until I am driven off or get instructions from you or suggestions from l3urnside. The news from the Army is discouraging, and the enemy are in high glee. The Satellite and Cwnr de Lion are at the mouth; the Teaser has gone down to coimnunicate; the Yankee, Freebo~-~~, A nacostia, and Jacob Deli are here. We are all well, but I am suffering from one of my periodical attacks of rheumatism. I have the honor to be, yours, faithfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Flotilla, etc. lEnclosares.] U. S. S. YANKEE, December 15, 1862. A military necessity renders the occupation of the vicinity of Port Royal desirable to our forces. The destruction of the town probably will be the consequence, and I therefore request that all noncombatants be removed before to-morrow at sunrise. Very respectfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, Comdg. Gunboats on the Rappahannock. MILITARY AND CIVIL AUTHORITIES AT PORT ROYAL, VA. Your notice to the citizens or military authorities at Port Royal to the effect that Port Royal or its vicinity requires yonr occupancy has been received, and in absence of any civil authorities I will give notice to the citizens to leave by sunrise to-morrow morning. Z. S. MCGRUDER, Lieutenant- Colonel Tenth Virginia Cavalry. Lieutenant MAGAW Page 201 OPEItATJONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 201 Signals. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 17, 18629 a. m. Smoke iii the rear of Port Royal indicates a reenforceinent of the enemy there. More fires than usual were seen there last night. Captain MAiAW. CAMP. [Captain STREET.J U. S. S. YANKEE, December 17, 18629 a. m. Au officer may go to headquarters to-night. Advance until you can discover the Three at Port Royal; also a little above there. If you meet with them, hill back to within signal distance. Captain STREET. Captain MAGAW. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, December 17, 18629:50 a. in. Enemy are at Pratts Blufl~ Did not see any guns. Fired at infantry behind Pratts house. Captain STREET. Captain MAGAW. Cikcalar from the Secretary of the Navy regarding rating of contrabands employed in U. S. Navy. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 18, 1862. Persons knowii as contrabands will not be shipped or enlisted in the naval service with any higher rating thait that of landsman, but if tound qualified after being shipped, may be advanced by the command- ing officer of the vessel in which they serve to the ratings of seaman, ordinary seaman, fireman, or coal heaver, if their services are needed in such ratings, and will be entitled to the corresponding pay. They will not be transferred from one vessel to another with a higher rating than that of landsman, but if discharged on termination of enlistment, or from a vessel going out of commission, will retain their advanced rating in the discharge. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of Commodore Haricood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- (ida, to Actinq Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commandinq U. S. S. Car- rituck, regarding transportation of ammunition to Rappahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 19, 1862. SIR: You will proceed to the Rappahannock River with the Ourrituck an(l on your arrival there report to Lieutenant Commander iMaga~v and deliver to hium the dispatches and also the ammunition, for war(Ied according to his requisition Page 202 202 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Iii passing through the Potomac, if you fall iu with Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, show him these orders and receive instrnctioims from him iu case of auy impediment to the service you are required to perform. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master T. J. LINNEKIN, Commanding U. AS1. S. (Jurrituck, Potomac Flotilla. General Order of Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, granting permission for the landing of military stores. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, December 20, 1862. The regular army tugs and transports furnished with the naval Potomac pass, duly en(lorsed by Captain Ferguson, assistant quarter- master, will be permitted to land army subsistence and stores at Aquia Creek and Belle Plain, or at any part of the Virginia shore designated 1)y the military authorities. This authority is not intended to include the transshipment and landing of sutlers stores or to interfere with auy regulation of the Treasury Department. A form of the naval Potomac pass, with endorsement to meet the case, is herewith annexed. ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. MCCREA, or the SENIOR NAVAL OFFICER AT OR NEAR AQUJA CREEK IN THE POTOMAC RIVER. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHiNGTON, December 20, 1862. (Received 4: 15 p. in.) I have just received this telegram from General Bnrnside: The guuboats may be withdrawn from the Rappahannock at any time you choose. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. Shall I withdraw them ~ A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. lion. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 20, 1862. Let the gunboats resume their usual duties of blockade, watching especially the mouth of the Rappahannock and other points in that vicinity. Be ready at any time to perform any duty required by Geii- eral Burnside. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore ilARwooD, Navy Yard, Washington Page 203 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 203 Report ~f Lieutenant- Commander ]Jliagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs on the Bappahannock. U. S. S. YANKEE, December 20, 1862. DEAR SIR: I received yesterday your letter of the 11th instant, con- taining the order in relation to the army supplies at the mouth of the UaI)pallannock, the same as before telegraphed by you. It is the first communication that I have received from you since the 4th instant. I enclose the last message from General Burn side. It was received night before last; at the same time I heard that a large body of the enemy had passed on to the road leading from Falmoutli to Washing- ton, via Stafford Court-House. I came at once to this place with the Freeborn in company, fearing that we might be required to protect the army stores, she stopping to coal at Piney Point. The Anacostia, Jacob Bell, and Teaser are at Brisco [Bristoc G?J mines, about 8 miles below Port Conway. The Satellite, with the Owur de Lion, is at the mouth of tIme river blockading. Until the Satellite went down to protect the army supplies at the month I did not know that the mortar schooner had left that point, and that there was no vessel blockading there. The Teaser goes down to Fort Lowry daily and meets the Cenr de Lion, both of them returning to their stations before night. In this way the river is examined from Brisco [Bristoe] mines down twice a (lay. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea writes me under date of 13th, saying that you wish me to keep you more frequently advised, etc. I assure you that I have written to you by way of General Burusides head- quarters every day, with one exception, since the 5th instant. I have not had communication otherwise since the Currituck went up the day after the Oaken Brow affair. The report in relation to that I sent by land. General Ingalls recalled his transportation; the vessel sailed for Aqmiia Creek on the 19th. I can see no use for any of the flotilla in the Rappahannock now, or until General Buruside is definitely heard from. Time enemy is in for~ce about Port Royal [Va.]; below it squads of cavalry with rifled artillery. I met the Cmtrrituck to-day, towed down, just above Piney Point; by her I received your letter of the 19th instant, covering three general orders. I ordered the Currituck to report to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hays, senior officer at the mouth of the Ilappahaunock. From. the nature of my instructions to that portion of the flotilla now in the Ilappahannock with regavd to ice, I presume that to-day they have all collected at a point below Tappahannock. Very respectfully, your servant, SAMUEL MACAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore A. A. ifARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. P. S.The Wy4ndank passed Fort Lowry yesterday afternoon, before sunset, bound up the ]It~ppahannock. I directed her to give ammuni- tion to the vessels above and return forthwith S. iVIAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander Page 204 204 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosure] Message from General B?onside to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, brought by a commis- SiOne(l officer, (lelirered on the evening of 18th J)eeember, 1862, ~fl Brisco [Bristoe] mines, Rappahannock River. General Buruside wanted me to communicate with the gunboats, but was afraid to send a written dispatch. Tell Captain Magaw that for the present the Army is brought to a standstill; to use isis judgment in the case of the conming on of cold weather; that his (General I3urusides) communication with Washington by land, (Stafford Court-House road) was cut oft. The Army had recrossed the river and saved all the bridges except a few boats. The above is the message from Major-General Burnside referred to in my letter of the 19th and received during the night of the 18th iDecember. SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Comman(l er, etc. Order ~f Lieutenant- Commander Afagaw, U. S. Navy, to Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, to blockade the mouth of Rappahannock River. U. S. S. YANKEE, Aquia Creek, December 21, 1862. SIR: You will remain at the mouth of the Rappahannock River until further ordered, maintaining a strict blockade. \Tery respectfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Acting Master LINNEKIN, Commanding Currituck. General Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Kavy, commwndinq Potomac Flotilla, regarding the divisions of his command and their stations. GENERAL ORnE~s, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, No. 14. ) Washington, December 22, 1862. The following vessels will compose the first. divisiois of the Potomac Flotilla., under command of Lieutenant Magaw, U. S. Navy: Freeborn, lieutenant-Commander Magaw. Yankee, Acting Master Ives. Teaser, Acting Ensign Sheridan. Resolute, Acting Master Tole. Eureka, Acting Ensign Brice. Mortar schooners.T. A. Ward, Acting Master W. L. Babcock; Adolph Hugel, Acting Master J. Van Boskirk. The limits of the first division will be from Alexa~ndria. to Wicomico River, Maryland. The stations as per General Order book will be guarded as may be necessary. Second Division, Potomac Flotilla. Jacob Bell, Acting Master Street (pro tern.). Satellite, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant P. flays Page 205 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC ANI) RAPPAHANNOCK. 205 Anacostia, Acting Master Provost. Gurritucl1, Acting Master Linnekin. i)ragon, Actiug Master G. E. Hill. Reliance Acti l)ockray. ng Master Cceur de Lion, Acting Master l3rowii. Mortar schooners.Dctn Smith, Acting Ma~ter Dean; George hang- ha in, Acting Master Collins. The stations as per General Order book will be guarded as may be necessary. Official dispatches will be datcd from the station: , U. S. S. Station, Potomac Flotilla. Commanding officers of divisions will inform the commander in chief the names of vessels on their respective stations, and report any changes from one station to another as soon as such changes have been made, as well as the reasons for making it. Wicomico River and Piney Point will be the coal stations. Wyan- dan/c, storeship, will be the guard ship at Piney Point till further orders. Requisitions for ordnance will be made npou her commanding officer. ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. General Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. GENERAL ORDER.] POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, December 22, 1862. The vessels of the Potomac Flotilla will assume their respective duties in the waters of the Potomac, Rappahannock, and Piankatank rivers. Commanding officers are cautioned against carelessness or inattention on the part of watch officers, as it is well known that a sur- lwise is contemplated by the enemy to capture one or more vessels of the flotilla. Several complaints have been made against the conduct of boats crews and the officers in charge. In future any accusation aoaiiist men and officers of the flotilla by persons on shore will be rigidly examined, and the offenders will suffer the extreme l)enalty if found guilty. Officers will be particular to forward their coal reports, as it is necessary to keep a certain snpply on haiid. Strict attention is commanded to the order regarding the coal taken from army vessels, and also general orders from Navy Department, December 3 and 12. ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the resumption by the vessels of his command of the usual duties of blockade. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 22, 1862. SIR: I have to reL)ort that your order, communicated by telegram, tlmat the Potomac Flotilla should resume their usual duties of blockade, has been executed Page 206 20(3 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The Satellite is stationed at the mouth of the liappahaiinock, and or(lers have been given to observe General Burnsides instructions. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servani, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lIon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary 01 the Navy. instructions from Lieutenant- Commander ]JfeCrea, U. S. Navy, command- ing Second Dicision Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Jlliaster Street, U. S. Nacy, assigned to temporary command of the same. [U. S. S.j IRELIANCE, Aqnia Creek, December 22, 1862. DEAR SIR: You will take charge of the vessels in the Potomac until I return. Order the Wyandank to take guard duty, relieve the Dan Smith, order Captain IDean to turn over all iiifoimation and orders, etc., to Captain McGowan. Place the Dan Smith off Herring Creek, George Man gham off Bretons Bay, and the Bell at the island. You must take a suitable vessel, one that is consigned to Piney Poiiit, and discharge her on Wicomico wharf. Take note of the date of discharge, as I must make a new contract with Mr. Plowden. Inform Captain McGowan to discharge all light-draft vessels on Piney Point until 800 tons have been discharged from the commencement of discharging. Put about 300 tons on Wicomico wharf. Attend to these matters until I come down, and keep a lookout for any crossing. Any vessel with a pass or letter from Captain IC. B.] Ferguson, quarter- master, or Colonel [D. H. IRucker, quartermaster, order passed by the guard ship, independent bf any custom-house papers. 1 shall go to New York to-morrow night and be back by Monday down the river. Meet me at the island if not engaged at any of the coal depots. It is important to fill up the wharves. 1 ani glad to hear such good accounts of the Bell. I shall try and advance you. Say to the officers I am much pleased to hear of their good conduct. * * * . * * * Yours, truly, E. P. MCCREA. Acting Master W. T. STREET, Commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell. [Telegrarn.1 AQUJA CREEK, December 31, 186212 m. The mortar schooners Racer and Sophronia have just arrived from Baltimore. I will keep them, supposing you do not want them at the yard. Captain MAGAW. Commodore HARWOOD Page 207 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 207 Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First 1)icision, regarding mortar schooners Pacer and AS1ophronia. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 31, 18G2. SIR: I have received your telegram of this morning in relation to the Racer and Sop hronia. You will l)lease dispose of these vessels to the best advantage for the present. I enclose circulars from the Department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master ]J fcqowan, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Wyandank, regarding coal. U. S. S. WYANDANK, Piney Point, January 2, 1863. SIR: I would respectfully report that in obedience to a verbal order from Lieutenant-Commander S. Magaw to stop the first coal schooner that came along, so as to get coal to proceed to the Itappahannock with, I seized the schooner Star, of New York, on the 2d of December, I8~i2, and took out of her 37 tons of coal, also giving the colulnanding oflicers of the Resolute and Dragon orders to take what they required. The Resolute took 15 and the Dragon 18 tons. Both vessels had been entirely out of coal for three days, and I had but 1 ton on board this vessel at the time I stopped the schooner. The Dragon having been sent from the Itappahannock by Lieutenant- Commander E. P. McCrea with orders to tow the first coal schooner she came across to the fleet on that river, and knowing that the vessels were nearly if not entirely out of coal, as there was no chance for them to fill np before they started, I gave the commanding officer of that ves- sel orders to tow the private coal schooner Kadosh to their relief. Hoping this will meet with your approval, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN MCGOWAN, Jr., Commodore A. A. IHIARWOOD, Acting Master, Commanding. (Jominanding Potomac Flot?Ua and Navy Yard, Washington, 1). C. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hays, U. S. Navy, comma~ding U. S. S. Satellite, of destruction of a schooner in the Piankatank River. U. S. S. SATELLITE, Station H, Potomac Flotilla, January 2, 1863. SIR: Having gained information of a schooner running the blockade in I~iankatank Itiver on the night of the 20th of December, 1862, with a cargo of salt, I proceeded this morning with the steamers Currituck and Anacostia, accompanied by the Ella, up that river about 8 or 10 miles, which was as far as our vessels could go on account of shoa Page 208 208 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. water. We learned from a prisoner we had on board that the schooner was in a creek some 5 miles below. We immediately proceeded down to the creek anti I sent the Currituck up about 1~ miles, when she ran ashore. I sent the Ella to her assistance to tow her off~ At this time the rebels discovered onr intentions and set fire to the schooner and destroyed her before we could get to her. We then threw a few shells in that direction. I afterwards learned on shore that the schooner had been (lisc]1ar5I~ed, and her cargo sent to Ilichinoiid. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, P. HAYS, A cting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding Satellite. Commodore A. A. IJARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington~ I). C. Report of Commodore Thar wood, U~ S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regar(ling captured sloop Potter, of Baltimore. COMMANDANTS OFFIcE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 9, 1863. SIR: Herewith I beg leave to enclose a duplicate certificate of cap- tnre, No. 1, of the sloop Potter, of Baltimore, l)y the U. S. S. Currituck, on the 3d instant. The persons and papers have been placed at the disposal of the dis- trict court. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotitla. flon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla.Ccrtifi cafe of capture. Name and character of prize. Sloop Potter, of Baltimore. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Thomas J. Linnekin, U. S. S. Currituck. When capture made.Jannary 3, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Between Windmill Point and ~ Point, between the months of the Potomac and the liappahannock rivers; for not having legal papers, and having on board articles other than that allowed by his permit. and for having taken a cargo to and carried on trade with the blockaded country, as l)roved by papers found on board, and by the captains own admission. The cargo, ~J any on board.Oysters, old rags, 01(1 brass, old iron, tobacco, raw hides, 01(1 copper. What papers found.Youchers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, accompanying. R~marks.Prisoiiers names: William S. Watson, captain; James Banks, cook; William F. Forrest, Solomon Evans. JANUARY 3, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned sloop was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Currituck, of the Potomac Flotifla, at the time and place above (lesignated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEKIN Page 209 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 209 Report of Commodore Jiarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture of schooner Exchange. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YA~D, Washington, January 10, 1863. Sin: Herewith I beg leave to enclose a duplicate certificate of cap- ture of the schooner Exchange by the U. S. S. Anacostia on the 28th iii ti mo. The persons have been placed at the disposal of the district court. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure.] Potomac Floiilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and cli aracter of prize.Schooner Exchange. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Anacostia. When capture made.December 28, 1862. Wherc and for what reasons.Rappahannock River; not having any permit or pass from the Department. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Remarks.There were two men on this vessel when captured, who stated that they came here on account of the weather for harbor, and also stated they were bound for Baltimore, where Mr. Trader, the owner, would meet them, he having tile require(l papers. Their names are James March ant and William Winder. They having no papers, I seized her as a prize to the United States. RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER, January 2, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner was captured by the undersigned, conimanding the U. S. S. Anacostia, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig-nated, and that tIme above and, annexed statement is true in every particular. NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding. Destruction of salt works, January 12, and capture of Confederate schooner Hampton, January 13, 1863, by U. S. S. Currituck. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, with enclosures. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 19, 1863. Sin: Your letter* of the 17th instant, ill(licatimlg Dividing Creek as a place ~o which contrabandists from Baltimore were taking supplies to the enemy, was (luly received. I have the satisfaction to inform time Department that commendable vigilance has been exercised by tile vessels of time flotilla in the quarter ~See p.2l4. N W RVOL ~ 1 Page 210 210 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK referred to. The Leslie arrived yesterday with the schooner Hampton, of Baltimore, in tow, captured by the Currituck, Acting~ Master Lin- nekin, on the morning of the 113th instant in T)ividing Creek. The vessel cleared (light), ostensibly for the oyster trade, but took in her cargo, J am informed, at Baltimore. She had oii board several passengers, who, fro in letters found on board, appear to be persons who have been in the habit of passing to and from Virginia. At the time of the capture of the Hampton, a canoe at the same place escaped, but was afterwards taken at Judian Creek iiot, however, until the crew had escaped to the woods and the principal part of her cargo had been (it is supposed) thrown overboard. I have also to report that on the day before these occurrences the Currituck broke up for the present an establishment for supplying salt to Richmond by destroying the kettles. I enclose herewith: First. A copy of Acting Master Linnekins report of the transaction just mentioned. Second. Certificate of capture of the schooner Hampton. Third. Certificate of capture of canoe at Dividing and Indian creeks. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDw. A. HARWOoD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. CURRITTTCK, Dividing Creek, Va., January 12, 1862. SIR: I beg to report on my arrival here, from information obtained from a negro, 1 proceeded to the South West Branch and found a large manufactory for salt in a steam sawmill, owned by a man named Oscar Yerby. He has been extensively engaged in supplying Richmond with salt. 1 sent a J)arty on shore in charge of the executive officer to destroy the works. They destroyed all the kettles, etc., with the exception of the boiler, which they were umiable to destroy, owing to its being very heavily 1)ricked round and ni we a iless burned the mill and large quantity of lumber. I left word for Yerby to discontinue time manu- facture of salt, otherwise I would raze all his buildings to the ground at some future day. I also ascertained that vessels run in here with contraband goods, vcry frequently furnishing the inhabitants with all they Ilee(l. Not having any chart of the place I did not venture in until to-day; time weather being so moderate I successfully entered. Now, that I am acquainted with the entrance of tile creek, I shall keep a sharp lookout as lomig as 1 am on this station. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. ilAnwoon, Nacy Yard, Washington, D. C. Potomac Flotifla.Certificate of capture. Name and character of prize.Schooner Hampton, Deals Island. By whom and what vessel capture made.IJ. S. S. Curritack; T. .1. Linnekin, commanding Page 211 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 211 When capinre ntade.January 13, 1863. Where, and for what reasons.Dividing Creek, Va.; running the block- ade with a general cargo from Baltimore. The cargo, if any on board.Miscellaneous freight. lVhatjj~apersfound.Voucher 1, box containing miscellaneous papers; voucher 2, book supposed to be a tally of part of cargo; voucher 3, ~l ,650 in bonds and demand notes; voucher 4, $604.35 in bank bills; voucher 5, $130 in bank bills; voucher 6, $26.25 in bank bills; voucher 7, $25 in gold; voucher 8, $2.25 in bills; voucher 9, permanent enroll- ment, dated at Deals Island, July 28, 1862; voucher 10, custom-house license, dated at Deals Island, July 28, 1862; voucher 11, coasting manifest, dated at Deals Island, December 30, 1862; voucher 12, cus- tom-house permit, dated at Baltimore, January 8, 1863. Rentarks.Names of prisoners: William L. Gage, of Baltimore R. F. Crisp, of Baltimore; Fred Toomey, of Baltimore; William Rowe (cap- tain), of Deals Island; Alex. Webster, cabin boy, of Deals Island; Wesley Milburn (colored), deck hand, of l)eals Island; Frank Evans (colored), deck hand, of Baltimore; Daniel Rice (colored), deck hand, of Baltimore. JANUARY 13, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner Hampton was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Currituck, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and l)lace above designated, and that above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. L1NNEKJN. Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of prize.A canoe; no name. By whom and by what vessel capture inade.U. S. S. Currituck, T. J. Linnekin, commanding. When capture made.January 13, 1863. Where au~d for what reasons.Indian Creek Va runnim the , ., _ blockade. Thc cargo, ~f any on board.Two barrels of whisky. What papers fo and.None. Remai-ks.None. JANUARY 13, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned canoe was captured by the undersigned, comniuanding the U. S. S. Currituek, of the Potomac Flo- tilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is trae in every l)articular. T. J. LINNEKIN. Report of Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U S. S. Currituck, regarding capture of schooner Hampton. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Dividing Creek, Va., January 13, 1863. SIR: I have to report the capture at 2 oclock this, morning of the schooner Hampton, of Baltimore, Captain William Rowe, laden with a (fualitity of miscellaneous freight too general to enumerate. I send you a supposed tally of part of the cargo, also a large quantity of docu- ments and money found on the prisoners. The trunk, marked R. S. Lzard, was found in the main hold broken open. I forward it to yo Page 212 21 2 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. as we found it, taking the precaution to seal it up. My reason in doing so was owing to the large quantity of small articles found ill it, includ- ing (as I am informed by the surgeon) some valuable drugs. You will find the hatches of the schooner also sealed. There are quite a number of small and valuable articles in the hold. I beg to refer you to the cabin boy, Alexander Webster; be can give you considerable inforina- tion as to the cargo, etc. I send the money, amounting to $787.85, and promissory notes amounting to $1,650.41, in charge of Paymaster Frank Clarke, of this vessel. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. ~. LINNEKIN, Acting Ma8ter, Commanding. Commodore A. A. LIARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, IVashington, D. C. Commendatory letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck. iNAvY YARD, WAS RING-TON, January 19, 1863. SIR: Your letters of the 12th and 13th instant, announcing the par tial destruction of salt works and the capture of the schooner Hampton and a canoe engaged in smuggliiig, have beeii received. I had just received from the Navy Department information of exteii- sive op& rations at Dividing Creek, and it was particularly gratifying to me to give the Department satisfactory evidcnce that the Potomac Flotilla was on the alert. Be on your guard when at anchor near the land against surprises. Have your boarding nettings made and regularly triced up, and your arms always in order and ready for use. Do not at any time or for any cause relax your vigilance. Yours, respectfully, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master T. J. LINNEKiN, Commanding U. S. S. Currituck. Letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to the Secretary of the Nary, regarding affairs of the Flotilla. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 14, 1863. SIR: The letter from Amos Tack, esq., to his Excelleiicy the Presi- dent, and its enclosures, transmitted in your letter of the 8th instant, are herewith returned. The same communication, word for word, had reached me through Acting Master Provost, of the U. S. S. Anacostia. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea sent two vessels and launches for the purpose of cutting the vessel out of Stutts Creek that ran the block- ade some time ago, but when within one-quarter of a mile of her, the enemy, discovering his intemition, set fire to the vessel. An expedition is now being organized with launches which will have some moral effect if no actual result upon the people around the waters of the Piankatank Page 213 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 213 The smuggling operations in this quarter will be closely watched, and a(lditional preparations have been made to deal with armed parties of in surrectioni sts. I have the honor to be, wit great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Aecretary of the Navy, j\Tavy 1)epartment. Letter from Lieutenant- Commander ]tiagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, relative to cooperation with the Army at Fredericksburg, Va. Semiofficial and confidential.] [U. S. S.] FREEEORN, Off Aquia Creek, January 14, 18638 p. m. DEAR SIR: General Burnside has at last asked us to cooperate, and I am hourly expectiug definite instructions. I have asked for and gotten four army tugs for the mortar vessels. The present understanding is that we are to make a feint at some eligible point on the Rappahannock, accompanied by a body of raw trool)s in transports, and the Army of the Pot otnac is to cross the Rap- })ahannock at fords above Fredericksburg. We are prepared to move at once, and I shall take all the available force, leaving the mouth of the Rappahannock blockaded. I will send you a copy of my instructions from General l3urnside as soon as I receive them. We will (10 our best. Yours, respectfully and faithfully, SAMUEL MAGAW. Lieutenaht- Commander, etc. Commodore ANDREW A. HAnwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington. Letter from Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- till(~,to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S Wary, commanding First Division, regarding cooperation with General Burnside, U. S. Army, and vigilance (tgainst surprises of the enemy. Semiofficial.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, January 17, 1%3. Sin: I have received your semiofficial and confidential (lispatch, and immediately sent Captain McCrea dowit the river iii order that he might semid me any intelligence necessary for the efficient supply of the flotilla and to confer with you. You are aware that the Department directs that you accede to the wishes of General Burn side iu every particular in which it is practicable to do so. I feel confident you will do your best to help the good cause and maintain the honor of~the Navy. I wish you to exercise vigilance in keeping the commanders, especially of the small tugs and other vessels, on the alert for night surprises and attack by boarding at any time. The disaster at Galveston will prob- ably put it in the heads of the enemy in. the neighborhood of the Rap- pahannock to try their hand in the same line Page 214 214 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND EAPPAHANNOCK. The boarding nettings should be in order and in place, the howitzers and small arms loaded, and the idea generally inculcated that it will be a disgrace of the worst kind to be caught napping. Reports have been rife in the city of the crossing of the Army of the Potomac, but not having heard anything more from you I have consid- ered the rumors as the shadows of coming events. I have been detaining the King Philip for the regulation paper, but if it does not come by 3 oclock I can detain her no longer. I wish to draw your attention to the rule of the Departmeiit about forwarding letters, Article II of the General Order regulating corre- sl)ondence. You will see that iu all cases preseuted for the decision of the Depart- ment an opinion is required. Yours, with regard, truly, ANDW. A. IIARWOOD. Lieutenant-Commander S. MAGAW, U. S. Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, enjoining special vigilance at Dividing Creek, Virginia. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 17, 1863. SIR: An intercepted letter from a noted rebel source indicates l)ividing Creek, between the mouths of the iRappahannock and Poto- iiiac rivers, as a place into which vessels with a clearance for Baltimore, but with supplies for the rebels, caii run. It would be well to give instructions to the vessels upon that station to look to that point. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. llARwooD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Report of Lieutenant-Commander ]JIc61rea, U. S. Navy, commanding Sec- ond I)ivi~ion Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs of his command. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, January 18, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to make you the following report: 1 arrived at Piney Point this day, having stopped at Aquia Creek en route, and detained by low tide in Dukeharts Channel, being aground for some hours. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw will take two of my mortar schooners at some future time for a specified purpose, which will somewhat disarrange my plans for the IVyandank. The launches will go to the l{appahannock in a day or two, though I will be governed a great deal by Lieutenant-Commander Magaws movements. I have sent your letter in part to Acting Master Dean, disapproving of his conduct in regard to the revenue steamer Hercules, and will report further regarding her when I next visit the Rappahannock ves- sels. I trust we will soon receive light-draft vessels with coal, as a demand on the coal pile will soon be niade. There is now at the depo Page 215 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 215 275 tons this day. The Satellite is here. I have ordered a survey upou her 1)1110W blocks, reported damaged. Should she not be able to go to the Rappahannock she will relieve the Wyandank as guard ship. I would earnestly request an immediate return of the Wyandank as soon as filled with provisions, as two or three vessels have no flour or beans and other necessary articles. The Carrituck is here for coal. She leaves to-morrow for her station in the Rappahannock. The Anacostia is in the IRappahannock also. I have sent a copy of your instructions to the vessels regarding revenue vessels. The lYing Philip will leave to-morrow for Washington. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant, Second Division. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck, of captures made by that vessel. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Indian Creek, Va., January 20, 1863. Sin: I beg to report I left the Wicomico this morning at daybreak for the hllappahannock with mails for the Anacostia. On passing this l)lace I saw a canoe standing in and immediately gave chase. On my getting inside we descried her about one-half mile farther up the creek. I immediately sent two boats in charge of the executive officer, who found her on the beach, the goods removed an They succeeded, however, with the assistance d the crew escaped. of a negro, in finding the goods and another canoe, which I am informed ran the blockade a few hours previously. On referring to the accompanying index, you will perceive there were sufficient goods captured to freight the two canoes. Considering the canoes worthless, I have retained one and given the other to the Anacostia; they may be useful in navigating the numerous creeks on this coast. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKiN, Acting Master, Commandinq. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Navy Yard, Washington, D. Li. Statement of Ceorge I?. Davis, esq., commanding steam tug Atlantic, regard. tng the loss of barges J. C. Davis and Liberty in Potomac Rivcr. U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITH, Station G, St. Marys River, January 21, 1863. This is to certify that I, George It. Davis, of the steam tug Atlantic, of Philadelphia [Baltimore 0?], chartered by Government, left Aquia Creek on the 15th instant, bound to Baltimore, with six barges in tow from the quartermasters department. The weather being bad, Page 216 1(3 OPERATiONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. anchored at Cornfield Harbor at 11 p. In. The 1)arges broke adrift fi om this anchorage; I] l)icked up three and towed them iiito St. Marys River. Arrived at St. Marys River at 4 a. in of date. At 1 p. in. I started in pursuit of said lost barges, and found that two of them, the J. C. Daris, of Philadelphia, and Liberty, of Reading, Pa., had fahlea into the hands of the enemy at Coan River, Virginia; that they had plundered the barges, robbed the men of their money, clothing, and 1)rovisions, as I learned from Captain William Kerkeslegen, of barge Flag of our Union. I saw the men on said barges, but COul(l not get theni off, fearing ami attack from the enemy and the capture of my boat; I was forced to abandon them. GEORGE IL DAvis, Commanding Steam Tug Atlantic, of Baltimore [Philadelphia ~]. Statement of the captains of barges J. C. Davis and Liberty, regarding the joss of their vessels in the Potomac River. U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITh, St. Marys River, Station G, January 23, 1863. This is to certify that I, Capt. Martin OBrien, of the barge J. C. Davis, of Philadelphia, amid Samuel Care, captoin pro tern of barge Liberty, of Readimig, left Belle Plaimi on the 15th instant, towed by steam tug Atlantic, Captain Davis, bound to Baltimore. On the 18th instant we asichored at Cornfield Harbor, Maryland. On the 20th instant, wind blowing heavy, at 9 p. in. we broke adrift from onr anchorage and drifted to Coan River, Virginia, an(l oim time 21st were boarded by time enemy, who plundered us of our money, clothing, and provisions, and took the barge Liberty about 4 mniles up the creek the J. C. Davis being aground at the time. We then secreted ourselves in the woods nntil taken off by your boat. We found it impossible to save the boats and they were set lire to amid destroyed by your boats crew. The above statement is correct iii every particular. his MARTIN x OBRIEN, mark. Captain of Barge J. C. Davis. SAMUEL CARE, Captain of Barge Liberty. Witness: F. L. HARRIS, Acting Ensign, Executive Officer. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the destruction of the barges J. C. Davis and Liberty, and rescue of crews. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 26, 1863. SIR: On the 22d instant, Acting Master Deami, commanding the U. S. schoommer Dan Smith, stationed at St. Mary~ River, was informed by the master of the steamer Atlantic that he had lost two barges, an Page 217 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 217 that they were in Coan River, Yirgiiiia, iii possession of the enemy, and that the ci~ews had been stripped of their money, clothes, and provi- sions, and the boats of their sails, rigging, etc. Acting Ensign Harris was ordered to Coan River with an armed cut- ter to rescue the crews and recal)ture or destroy the boats. He found the boats iii possession of the rebels (who retired at his approach), one 4 and the other 7 miles up a creek, and not being able to save them he destroyed them by lire. lie rescued the cre~vs of the barges, whom he found secreted in the woods. They were restored to their vessel, the Atlantic, described as being iii Government employ, which vessel has returned to Baltimore. I have the honor to be with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary, Navy Department. Report of Lieutenant- Commander MeOrca, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs of his command and violation of the blockade. BLAKISTONE ISLAND, Potomac Flotilla, January 23, 1863. SIn: The King Philip arrived to-day with your several dispatches. I had already ordered an acting mimasters mate (E. Jones) to the George Alan gham, and therefore have ordered Acting Masters Mate Marshall to the Jacob Bell on temporary service. I have no means at present to communicate with the Anacostia or Currituek, having no tugs or vessels to send around, consequently have temporarily placed the officers and men destined for said vessels aboard those in the Potomac until an opportunity arises for delivering them. The Jews are again commencing to cross the river. They carry money acrossTreasury notes aud Southern moneyand return with gold and silver. My small force and length of coast to guard is of but little avail. A detective in the daily Leonardtown stage would be of great use. It leaves Washington early every morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. ~. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Ilepoit of Lieutenant- Commnwnder McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second 1)ivision Potomac Flotilla, regarding captures. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Potomac Flotilla, January 26, 1863. SIn: I send the Jacob Bell up to Washington with nineteen prisoners, capture(l within the last three days crossing the river. I send a mail ~vhich was tlnown overboard but saved in time uninjured. I refer you to the Remarks in certificate of capture. I would like more vessels Page 218 218 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. if possible. Could you spare the King Philip for a few days l I would like her placed at my disposition. I have to remain ill Leon ardtown an iiidefinite period, and I purpose to send this vessel cruising and remain on shore. The King Philip would be of service in bringing me away and taking up any prisoners captured by the vessels. 1 am obliged to send lip a large number of prisoners, for the vessels can not keep them aboard. Your dispatches per Reliance were received last night. The Reliance has gone to the Itappahannock with mails, etc. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commaudinq Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding captures. BRETONS BAY, January 27, 1868. Sin: I have the honor to forward you per Reliance thirteen prisoners and two sloops, with goods, etc. Please to send the Reliance back as soon as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander, Second Division, and Adjutant. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of L1ommodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding prisoners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 28, 1868. SIR: I have to report the arrival yesterday afternoon of the U. S. S. Jacob Bell, with twenty-three prisoners and the contraband goods men- tioned in the enclosed certificate of capture. One of these prisoners W T Littlepage, was captured last Novem- ber and consigned to themilitary authorities. He has returned to his business of running the blockade, and, as I presume there is no mili- tary court to try the offense, I have placed him, with the rest, in time hands of the district court. I take this opportunity to remark that the disposal of prisoners has been an embarrassing one to me, as, after taking great pains to dimin- ish the contraband trade, I find that the regular runners contrive to get off with a short confinement and that I do not receive any notice of their release. Two of the men on the certificate of capture, William Delano and William Short, are, I think, notorious sympathizers and contrabandists, and I should like to have an opportunity of identifying them, amid, if they prove to be the persons mentioned in certain correspondence which has passed through my hands, they ought not to be released without giving heavy bonds for their future behavior Page 219 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCI(. 219 I regret to say that the contraband trade is reviving and that it can not be effectually checked without more vessels. I have ordered the King Philip, whicli is only fit for river work, for temporary service in the river. 1 have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. FIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. (iWI~ON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Endorsement.] Commodore ilarwood should have proper facilities for identifying the persoiis mentioned, aiid every available assistatice and aid in checking the contraband traffic. [Enclosure.] Potoosac FlotillaCertificates of capture. Name and character of the prize.Boat No. 1; no name. Prisoners: W. Walter Ward, T. F. Kater, Raymond Davis, Coleman llecht, A. Jackson, M. Sleigenhamnier, A. Frenkle, W. Langley, George Ham- mitt, W. Lawrence (negro), John W. Pentz, Walter Barnes (negroes). By whont and by what vessel capture made.James McDonald, actiii g masters mate. When capture made.January 24, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Off Poseys Bluff, Potomac River. The cargo, if any on board.Three barrels whisky, 4 boxes, 2 trunks, 4 valises, 3 carpetbags, 1 bag. What papers found.None. Rem arks.Boat captured while running the blockade. Boat de- stroyed. Name and character of the prize.Boat No. 2; no name. Prisoners: W. T. Littlepage, D. C. Gardner, William II. Gurge. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Erick Gabrielson, acting masters mate. lVhcn capture made.January 25, 1863. Wher.e and for what reasons.Off Ragged Point, Potomac River. The cargo, if any on board.Three barrels ~vhisky, 3 kegs, 1 bale twine, 1 bag coffee, 3 valises. What papers found.None. Remarks .Boat captured while running the blockade. Boat de- stroyed; 1 valise empty. Name a~td character of the prize.Boat No. 3; no name. Prisoners: William Delano, William II. Short, William Thompson. By whom and by what vessel captitre made.Eri& z Gabriels6u, acting masters mate. When capture made.January 25,1863. Where and for what reasons.Off Floods Creek, Potomac River. The cargo, iJ any on board.Six boxes, 4 bags shot. What papers found.None. Remarks .Boat captured while running the blockade. Boat de- stroyed. Articles not specified; contents unknown Page 220 220 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. STATION F, January 26, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prisoners and goods were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. schooner Georqe Many/win, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig- nate(1, an(1 that the above and annexed statement is true in every par- ticular. JOHN COLLINS, Jr. Acting Master, Commanding. Report of Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificates of capture. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAvY YARD, Washington, January 30, 1863. SIR: I beg leave to forward for the information of the l)epartment a certificate of capture Inade by the U. S. S. Currituck on the 20th Instant. The goods are now at this yard. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. JIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Hon. GIDEON WELLES, ASecretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosures.] Potomac FlotiUa.Certificates of capture. Name and character of the prize.Two canoes; no name. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Currituck; T. J. Linnekin, commanding. When capture made.January 20, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Indian Creek, Virginia; employed in 1nnning the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Name and character of the prize.Miscellaneons freight. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Currituck; T. I. Linnekin, commanding. When capture made.January 20, 1863. lVhere and for what reasons.Jndian Creek, Virginia. The cargo, ~/ any on board.-[None.] IV hat papers found.None. Remarlcs.See schedule attached. JANUARY 20, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned two canoes and a lot of miscellaneous freight were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Currituck, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time aiid place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEKIN Page 221 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHAN~OCK. 221 Captures made by U. ~. ~. Currituck, January 23 and 25, 1863. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potoma. Flotilla, transmitting certificates of capture. POTOMAC FLOTHMLV, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, January 30, 1863. Sin.: I enclose for the information of the Departinetit a certificate of (~lL)t1lre of a sloop and nine canoes, with thirteen prisoners and a quail- tity of contraband goods, by the Currituck. I have this day 1)laced them 111 the hands of the civil authorities. All the captures have been made between the mouths of the Potomac and the Piankatank rivers. In a letter from Acting Master Linnekin, dated 23d instant, then at the mouth of Jackson ~reek,in the Piankatank River, he reports} that iii the South West Branch they found a sloop anchored and scuttled in two places. Boats were sent to bring her out. The leaks were stopped and the ~vater pumped out of the hold. A party was sent on shore in search of the goods taken from the sloop, but without success; they succeeded, however, in capturing two prisoners. While towing the sloop off, the party were attacked by about thirty ifienien from a thick woods, who kept up a lively fire, calling for Act- ing Masters Mate Nelson to give up the sioop. He very coolly and bravely brought her off under a heavy fire, steering himself. Fortunately, no one was hurt. The tow being for part of the time between the enemy and the Cur- rituck she could not open on them until they cleared the creek. The woods were then shelled, but with what result is not known. In subsequent letter, dated January 26, Acting ~Iaster Linnekin reports the capture of nine canoes in Indian, Barnes, and Tabbs [Tapps] creeks, all situated bet~veen the mouths of the Rappahannock and the Potomac. These canoes were full of freight, which has been brought to the yard. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding, etc. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Nacy. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilia.Certiftcatcs of capt re. Name and character of the prize.Two canoes; no name. By who~t and by what vessel capture made.U. S. S. Currituck; T. J. Linnekin, commanding. I Yb en capture made.January 25, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Off Indian Creek, Virginia; running the blockade. The cargo, ~f any on board.Miscellaneous freight. What papers found.One memorandum book, containing tally of part of the cargo, voucher 1. Name and character of the prize.Five canoes; no name. By whom and by what ressel capture made.U. S. S. Curritucic; T. J. Linnekin, commanding Page 222 222 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. When cai)ture made.January 25 1863 Where and fbi what reasons.Barnes Creek, Virginia; running the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.Miscellaneous freight. What papers found.None. Name and character if the prize.Sloop Queen ~,f theFleet. By whom and by uhat vessel capture made.U. S. S. (Jurrituck; ~f J. Linnekin, commanding. When cap ture made.Jan nary 25, 1863. iVhere and for what reasons.Tabbs [Tapps] Creek, Virginia; run- ning the 1)lotkade. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.$1,314 in bank bills, voucher 2. Name and character of the rize.Two canoes; no name. By whom and by what vessel capture madeli. S. S. (Jurrituck; T. J. Linnekin, commanding. When capture made.January 25, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Tabbs [Tapps] Creek, Virginia; ran- ning the blockade. The cargo, if any on board,Miscellaneous freight. Uhat papers found.None. Rentarks.Names of the prisoners: John A. Scott, James Taylor, I). S. Johnson, James ilolden, Samuel Johnson, Robert C. Stewart, isaiah Johnson, Julius C. White, John W. Taylor, Aaron Lewis, George Taylor, William Jackson, Samuel C. Taylor. JANUARY 26, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned sloop and itine canoes were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. (lurritucle, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEKIN. Li8t of good8 captured by the U. S. S. Currituck at Indian Creek, Virginia, January 20, 1863. One barrel containing 9 overcoats and 24 pair gaiters: Omme barrel containing 404 yards gray cloth, 20t yards prints, 10 undershirts. Two boxes soda. One box containing 2 ounces quinine and 2 pounds magnesia. One box containing padlocks and nails. One box containing 223 yards prints, 42 yards red flannel, 394 yards bleached cotton, and 12 pair ladies gaiters. One box containing 31 pair hose, 209 yards print, 25 yards linen ,27 yards white flanmiel, and 274 yards gray cloth. One box containing 74 dozen gaiters. One box containing 67 skins leather. One box containing 12 hats, 3 packages sundries, 3 ~)air gamitlets, 1 box shoes, 1 box soap, 1894 yards prints, 2 dozen hose, 18 pair shoes. One box containing 50 yards prints, 3 pair gaiters, 4 pair rubbers. Loose: Two coils cordage, 3 barrels whisky Page 223 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 223 Report of Acting Master Linnekin, U. 5, Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck. U. ~3. S. CURRITUCK, 1~iankatank River, Virginia, January 23, 1863. Sin: At (laybreak this morning, as I lay at the mouth of the Rap- pahaunock, I saw two canoes standing in for this place. I at once weighed anchor and gave chase. Owing to a heavy fog we lost sight of them in a short time. I anchored at the mouth of Jackson Creek on this river, supposing them to have run in there. I sent the gig and second cutter, in charge of Mr. Nelson, the executive officer, in search of them, under cover of our guns. On landing they ascertained from a negro that a sloop was lying in the South West Branch, which they found anchored, and scuttled in two places. They at once stopped the leaks and pumped the water out of her hold. Mr. Felix, masters mate, in charge of the second cutter, went in search of the goods taken from the sloop, but without success. As he landed he saw about twenty men running in different directions, also three of the rebel cavalry, one of whom took to flight, supposed to be a Colonel Chonan [Chiun l], of the rebel cavalry. He captured two prisoners, Riley Christopher, a rebel soldier, and James Ewell, of Accomac Creek, Virginia, the owner of the sloop. The latter had a Sharps rifle, which he dropped as Mr. Felix called on them to surrender he asserts he had no intention of using it, and says it was given to him by the colonel to fire on our men. Christopher (the other prisoner) also states the colonel gave liim a rifle for the same purpose, which he threw away on seeing our men landing. Immediately after this Mr. Nelson shoved off and got the sloop underway, having the gig in tow, sending the second cutter ahead. When abreast of a point covered with thick woods, they were suddenly attacked by party of about thirty rillemen, who kept firing rapidly and calling on Mr. Nelson to give up the sloop. He replied by oidering his men to fire, and bravely kept his place at the helm under a heavy fire, until it became so rapid he had to steer from the cabin. He kept on his course, his men keeping up a rapid fire from the hold of the sloop and from the gig in reply to that of the enemy, who did not cease firing until they were out of range. I am happy to inform you none of our party were injured. As the boats were between this vessel and the enemy I could not open on them until they cleared the creek. I then shelled the woods for about thirty mniuntes, with what success I was unable to ascertain. I enclose a note found on the person of Riley Christopher. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. HARwOoD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Indian Greek, Virginia, January 26, 1863. Sin: I have to inform you I left Dividing Creek yesterday at day- break for this place. On my way down I discovered two canoes stand- ing in. I fired a gun at themmi, which brought them to. They were both laden with valuable miscellaneous freight, which, 1 am ijifor med by one of the five men captured cost $5,000 at Baltimore. On anchoring in this creek I dispatched the gig and second cutter, in charge of Ensig Page 224 224 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Nelson, the executive officer, to explore Barnes Creek. They succeeded in discovering five canoes, all loaded with miscellaneous freight. The crews all escaped to the woods. About 10 oclock last night two negroes came off from shore, and informed me that a sloop and two canoes were lying in Tabbs [lapps] Creek, about 2 miles from where I lay. I at once sent a party in search of them, the negroes acting as pilots. They succeeded in cap- turing them, and all the crew, with one exception. The canoes were full of freight. The sloop had disposed of hers, but I found on the person of the captain $1,314, which I send you in charge of Masters Mate Ambrose Felix, prize master; also a mail and some newspapers found on board. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. HARWOOP, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washin~to~, D. C. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, TI S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the crossing of Potomac River by deserters. NAVY DEPARTMENT, Febrnary 2, 1863. SIR: I transmit herewith for your information a copy of a telegram to General Heiutzehuan, relative to deserters crossing the Potomac on rafts, between Quantico and Chopawamsic creeks. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Commodore A. A. ilARwoom Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [EnclosureTelegram.] IDUMPRIES, January 25, 1863. Am informed that quite a number of men cross the Potomac between Quantico and the Chopawamsic creeks on rafts into Maryland. Can not one of the blockading boats be put to watch between those points? Excuse the suggestion, but II feel a personal pride in putting a stop to desertions. CHARLES CANDY, Colonel, Commandin,q Post. General IIEJNTZELMAN. [Endorsement.] JANUARY 31, 1863. Itespeetfully referred to the Secretary of the Navy for his information. II. W. HALLECK, General in Chief. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding Prevention of desertions from the Army. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 3, 1863. SIR: I have received yonr letter of the 2(1 instant, enclosing a tele- gram in relation to army deserters crossing the Potomac between Quantico and Chopawamsic creeks Page 225 OPERATiONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 225 I have given instructions to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw to aid, as far as it may be in his power, in preventing desertions from the Army. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAiiwooD. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 4, 1863. SIR: I forward certificate of capture, just received, made by the U. S. schooner George Mangham, Acting Master John Collins, jr., on 26th ultimo; also a certificate of capture made by the U. S. schooner Dan Smith, Acting Master Benjamin C. Dean, on 2d instant. The piize goods are now at this yard, and the prisoners were turned over to the prize commissioners son-ic days ago. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwoOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prize.One boat; no name. Names 6f prisoners captured with boat: Albert Ball, George Thompson, William Thompson, A. Lincolnall colored. By whom and by what vessel capture made.James McDonald, acting masters mate. When capture made.January 26, 1863. Where and for what reasons.St. Clements Bay; intending to ran the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.Five barrels of whisky, 2 bags coffee, 1 bag pepper, 5 bags shot, 4 boxes (contents unknown). What papers found.None. Reniarks.Boat worthless and destroyed; boat and goods hauled up on the beach when captured. STATION F, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, January 26, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned goods and prisoners were captured by the nudersigned, commailding the U. S. schooner George Man gham, of the Eotomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig- n~a~ted, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every l)nrticular. JOHN COLLINS, Jr., Acting ililiaster, Commanding. Potomac Flotilla.Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Three boxes dry goods, 3 boxes candles, 1 box soap, 1 barrel sugar. N W RVOL 51 Page 226 226 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. By whom and by what vessel capture made.U. S. schooner Dan Smith. When capture made.January 31, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Potomac River; contraband. The cargo, if any on board.[None.] What papers found.[None.] Remarks.I ordered Acting Masters Mate William H. Hunt out to reconnoiter in the Potomac River. He reported that he found said goods, part in a canoe and part on the beach at Cooks Pond~ oti the Maryland shore, which he seized and brought on board this vessel and also two boats considered of no value. JANUARY 31, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned goods were captured by the undersigned, commanding the IT. S. schooner Dan Smith, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. [BENJ. C. DEAN.] Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting information regard- ing smuggling. NAVY DEPARTMENT, February 4, 1863. SIR: I transmit herewith a copy of a letter received from General Haupt, in reference to a smuggling business that is done near the month of the Potomac, opposite St. Georges Island. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington. [Enclosure.] WAR DEPARTMENT, U. S. Military Railroads, January 31, 1863. C SIR:] I am informed that an extensive smuggling business is done near the mouth of the Potomac, opposite St. Georges Island, in small boats, which are secreted in the creeks or drawim up in the bushes and used at night; that in this way mails are carried and many wagonloads of shoes and other necessaries transported to Richmond. The trade could be broken up, or seriously interfered with, by searching for and seizing all the boats and by the establishment of an efficient river patrol. Yours, very respectfully, H. HAUPT. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Favy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding prisoners captured by U. S. schooner Dan Smith and enclosing reports of commanding officer of said vessel. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 10, 1863. SIR: The King Philip arrived on Sunday night with the following prisoners, arrested in the act of landing from the Virginia shore, by a party from the U. S schooner Dan Smith: The Rev. J. B. B. Wilmer, formerly a chaplain in the U. S. Navy Page 227 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 227 Maurice Clagett, of Iiichmoiid, Va. William Bayley (eight months in rebel Army). John A HilL California. William Ashton, an English subject provided with a consular protee- tioii, bat long resident of Charleston, S. C. Fleet Pierce, of Yeocomico, Va., employed as ferryinan across the Potomac. Persons and papers have been turned over to the provost-marshal of the military district. Acting Masters Mate H. S. Sommers, who captured the boat, reports that Lord Hartington and Colonel Leslie had crossed the river in viola- tion of the blockade. These persons, before they left the Virginia shore, were in company with Dr. Wilmer, who represented to me that his errand was to obtain medical advice and purchase religious books, amid that time intention of the party was to give themselves up to one of the gunboats. The merits of the case will be decided by the military authorities, and therefore I deem it unnecessary to trouble the Department with further detail. A mail was picked up on the beach, where it had been thrown, proba- bly by Bayley, who appears from the correspondence to be the mmdl carrier. The letters teem with the usual falsehood and invective, but contain nothing of special importance. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servamit, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary, Navy Department. [Enclosures.] U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITH, Station F, Blake Creek, February 7, 1863. SIR: I would most respectfully report that I ordered Acting Masters Mate B. S. Sommers last evening to reconnoiter. He left the vessel at 6 p. m. At 10 p. ni. returned, reported having captured a boat with six men as they were landing from the Virginia shore, and that he brought the boat and prisoners on board, and also learned that Lord Hartington and Colonel Leslie have landed and were on their way to Washington. Enclosed I send the several statements made to me on examination, and also the amount of money found in their possession. I have ordered Acting Masters Mate B. S. Sommers to take charge of the prisoners and proceed to Washington and report to you for further orders. Sir, I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. C. DEAN, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITH, Station F, Blake Creek, February 9, 1863. SIR: I would most respectfully report that Acting Masters Mate William H. Hunt captured a boat with five men off Poplar Hill Creek, just as they had started from the Maryland shore about 300 yard Page 228 228 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. distant, bound to Virginia. Enclosed are their statements to me on examination, with the amount of money iu their possession. I have ordered Acting Masters Mate William H. Hunt to take charge of the prisoners and proceed to Washington to report to you for further orders. Hoping this may meet your approval, sir, 1 remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. C. DEAN, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, and Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. & Navy, commanding Potomctc Flo- tilla, transmitting documents relative to the capture, by U. S. S. Cxur dc Lion, of schooner Emily Murray. PoToMAc FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 11, 18G3. SIR: I enclose herewith a certificate containing particulars of the cal)ture of the schooner Emily Murray, of Baltimore, by the U. S. S. Cwur de Lion, Acting Master Charles H. Brown. On comparing the manifest with the goods on board at the time of the capture, it was found that sundry bales, boxes, and barrels were missing. Acting Master Brown was on his way up the river with his prize in tow when lie learned, by examining the crew, that the missing part of the cargo had been landed in Virginia during the night. He returned to the neighborhood of Machodoc, and with the assistance of a boats crew from the mortar schooner Dan Smith, recovered some of the goods corresponding to those on the manifest from a boat which was engaged in taking them across the creek, but which, being fired at, was run ashore. The party made an unsuccessful search on the shore and adjacent buildings for the remainder of the goods. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla-Certificate of capture. Namc and character of the prize.Schooner Emily Murray, of Balti- more; prisoners: J. F. Smith, J. F. Fink, Ed ward Robinson. By whom and by what vessel capture made.-.Acting Master Charles H. Brown; U. S. S. C~zeur de Lion. When capture made.February 9, 1863. Where and for what reasons.O ft Machodoc Creek; captured, as her manifest did not agree with the cargo, and suspicion of breaking the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.Lumber, sugar, whisky, and merchan. dise Page 229 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 229 What papers found.Manifest, license, enrollment, bills, and permit; three envelopes with varions papers enclosed. Remarks.Three barrels of sugar and quantity of lumber unknown. Some of the goods bronght by this vessel have also been captured this day by the Gxur de Lion, having been found iu Yirginia. FEBRUARY 9, 1863. 1 hereby certify that the above mentioned schooner Emily Murray was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Czeur de Lion, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true iu every particular. CHAS. II. BROWN, Acting Master. U. S. S. CU~UR BE LION, February 9, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report to you the capture of the schooner Emily Murray, of Baltimore, under the following circumstances: At 6 a. m. of this day, while lying near the Virginia shore opposite Cur- rioman Creek, we saw this schooner lying at anchor about half a mile from the lower point of Machodoc Creek. We steamed down to her, and on boarding I enquired of the captain why he was so near the Virginia shore. He said he was in a sinking condition. I looked at his papers and found he had boxes, bales, and barrels on his manifest which were not on board, and of which he could give no account. I put a prize crew on board, took him in tow, and while proceeding to Blakistone Island, examined the crew of the schooner and found from their statements that the missing goods had been landed during the night. I therefore immediately ran down to the U. S. schooner Dan Smith, procured a boat and crew, and went over to search for the goods. As we were on our way across the river we saw a boat crossing Machodoc Creek; we fired a shot over her, wl~ereupon the men turned the boat toward Wind- mill Point, ran her on a beach, and abandoned her. We went within about 100 yards of her and came to anchor. After bringing the boat alongside we found she contained goods with marks upon them cor- responding to those on the manifest of the Emily Murray, and one of her crew identified them as the same which had been landed from that vessel. I sent the U. S. schooner Dan Smiths boat, in charge of Acting Ensign F. L. Harris, the cutter in charge of Acting Masters Mate C. E. Baldwin, and with my own gig, we proceeded to examine the shore and adjacent buildings. After an unsuccessful search we returned to the steamer, crossed the river, and leaving the Dam Smiths boat along- side that vessel, proceeded up to where we left the schooner Emily ~11iurray, which we then towed to Blakistone Island anchorage. The U. S. schooners Dan Smith and George Man gham were in sight at the time of the capture of the Emily Murray. rfhe prisoners were: J. F. Smith, captain; John F. Fink, white boy; Edward Robinson, colored boy. Respectfully, your most obedient servant, CHAS. H. BROWN, Acting Master, Commanding U. ~. S. Owur de Lion. Commodore A. A. HARWooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 230 230 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding prisoners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 12, 1863. SIR: I have to report the arrival of the King Philip with the goods and prisoners referred to in the enclosed certificate of capture. I enclose also the statements of the prisoners in relation to rheic residences and property. The prisoners and goods have been turned over to the military authorities and the money carefully sedure(l until it cau be determined whether it is to be returned to the persons upon whom it is found or where it is to be deposited. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore Com~ Hon. GIDEON WELLES, , nanding Potomac Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla. Certificates of capture. Name and character of the prize.A boat of no value and without a name. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Captured by Acting Ensign F. L. Harris, of the U. S. schooner Dan Smith. When capture made.Captured February 9, 1863. Where and for uhat reasons.Crossing Machodoc Creek, Virginia. The cargo, if any on board.Two boxes marked ~, Washington, D. C.; 2 barrels marked~, 1 barrel marked~~, 1 bale, mark erased. 11 hat papers found.None. Remarks.-Saw the boat crossing the creek; Acting Master C. H. Brown, commanding U. S. S. Owur de Lion, fired three shots; the boat was pulled ashore and abandoned by the crew. Name and character of the prize.A boat of no valne, without a name. By uhom an4 by what vessel capture made.Captured by Acting Masters Mate William H. Hunt, of the U. S. schooner Dan Smith. When capture made.Captured February 9,1863. Where and for what reasons.Captured off Poplar Hill Creek, Poto- mac River, en route to Virginia. The cargo, if any on board.Five men, 2 trunks, 1 sack, 1 package, 2 sacks containing Testaments and religious works. What papers fonnd.A few letters. Remarks.IDiscovered in Potomac River, en route to Virginia. FEBRUARY 9, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned merchandise was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. schooner Dan Smith, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and thatthe above and annexed statement is true in every particular. BENJ. C. DEAN Page 231 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 231 U. S. SCHOONER DAN SMITH, POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Station F, Blake Creek, February 9, 1863. SIR: Below are the statements of the subjoined prisoners: D. T. Chandler, a resident of Baltimore, Md., has a valise, saddle bag, two blankets, one india-rubber bag, $52.30 in U. S. Treasury notes, and $150 in gold. D. T. CHANDLER. S. F. Cameron, a resident of Alton, Cecil Connty, Md., has a few articles of medical stores for the Confederate Army, a trunk containing articles for persons residing in Virginia, and $542.70 in Confederate notes, and a set of horse equipments. S. F. CAMERON, C. S. Army. John Carvelle, a resident of Washington, D. C., has a trunk and sack containing shoes; also a package of dry goods, a valise containing wearing apparel, and $213 in U. S. Treasury notes, three bonds on North Carolina, each valued at $200, payable in the Bank of the Republic of the city of New York. JOHN CARVELLE. W. D. Cassin, a resident of the District of Columbia, has a trunk and carpetbag containing clothing; also $207 in gold, $36 in IJ. S. Treasury notes, and $10 on a Southern bank. W. D. CASSIN. R. Rose, a resident of Richmond, Va., has a valise containing wearing apparel and two Spanish doubloons. iR. ROSE. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo. tilla, transmitting certificate of capture. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 17, 1863. SIR: I forward, for the information of the Department, a certificate of capture made by the U. S. schooner George iifangham, Acting Master John Collins, jr., commanding, on the 11th iiistant. The prisoner, John Williams, has been placed in custody, and the l)rize goods stored at this yard. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. flon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department Page 232 232 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of the prize Boat prisoner. . no itame; John Williams By by what ressel capture made.Erick Gabrielson, acting masters mate. When capture made.February 11, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Potomac [River; running the blockade. The cargo, ~f any on board.Four barrels whisky, 4 bags coffee, 3 boxes, 2 trunks, 2 horse collars, 18 plow points. What papers fouud.None. Renzarks.The boat was captured when just landed on the Virginia shore, the occupants escaping, except one old man who gives his name as John Williams. They fired on the guard boat as she was palling toward them, but were driven off by Mr. Gabrielson and crew, the grounding of his boat preventing him from capturing the ciitire party. The boat worthless and destroyed. The contents of the trunks and boxes unknown. STATION F, PoToMAc FLOTILLA, February, 12, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prisoner and goods were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. schooner George ilfanyh am, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig- nated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. JOHN COLLINS, Jr., Acting ]Jfaster, Commanding. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding the seizure of schooner Mail. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 23, 1863. SIR: On the 21st instant, on examining the cargo of the sutler schooner Mail, by Acting Master Van Boskirk, commanding the guard vessel at Alexandria, after she had been duly cleared and the cargo inspected by the custom-house, it was discovered that she had on board 428 dozen cans of an intoxicating drink resembling eggnog, entered on the manifest as milk, and the cans labeled milk drink. By the terms annexed to the manifest, signed by the deputy collector at Georgetown The said vessel and all her cargo are to be forfeited to the United States if any other goods are found on board of her than those specified in the iianifcst on the examination of the custom-house officers or the military or naval authorities after clearing for Belle Plain, Va. I have therefore directed the vessel turned over to the district court. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 233 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 233 Letter from Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Plo- tiUa, to Brigadier- General lJleigs, U. S. Army, regarding cargo of prize schooner Mail. FEBRUARY 23, 1863. GENERAL: The sutler schooner Mail, S. IRaynor, master, regularly licensed, her car go inspected and cleared by the custom-house authorb tics at Georgetown, was found on examination by the officer command- ing the guard vessel at Alexandria to have on board of her 428 dozen (ailS of strong drink resembling eggnog, marked on the manifest milk and on the caiis milk drink. The consignees hail, by a singular coincidence, from the State cele- brated for its liqnor law, viz: B. II. Garmisey, Sixth Maine Volunteers; A. W. Colamer, First Maine Volunteers; W. D. Haley, Nineteenth Maine Volunteers, jointly. I send you a specimen of th~ milk. The vessel has been seize(I and turned over to the district court. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. ilARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Brigadier-General MONTGOMERY MEIGS, U. S. Army, Qnartermaster- General, Washington, D. C. Letter from the collector of customs at Georgetown, D. C., to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the release of the schooner Mail. CusTOM-HousE, Georgetown, D. C., March 5, 18G3. SIR: I am authorized by letter of the honorable Secretary of the Treasury, of the date of the 3d instant, to release the schooner Mail and her cargo and hand her over to the claimants, except the said 428 dozen cans of milk drink, which I am instructed to take possession of and cause to be condemned. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, JUBSON MITCHELL, Collector. [Commodore A. A. ilARwoon, III. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla.] Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Master Frank, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. S. Wyan- dank, in relation to a fraud attempted by schooner Mail. FEBRUARY 23,1863. SIR: Be ou the watch in passing licensed vessels with sutlers stores to ascertain that intoxicating drinks are not smuggled in cans entered as milk, oysters, or the like, on the manifest. The sutler schooner Mail, regularly licensed and cleared for Belle Plain, had on board of her 428 dozen cans of strong drink resembling eggnog, marked on the manifest mnilk and on the cans Milk drink, prepared by Nunlsen, Carroll & Co., No. 18 Light street, Baltimore. The fraud was detected by Acting Master Van Boskirk, commanding the guard vessel at Alexandria. By the terms annexed to the mani- fest, signed by the deputy collector at Georgetown, the said vessel an Page 234 234 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. all her cargo are to be forfeited to the United States if any other goods are found on board of her than those specified in the manifest, on examination by the custorn-honse officers or the military or the naval authorities after clearing for Belle Plain, Va. You will seize and send to this yard all vessels you may detect in committing frauds of the kind. You will observe that cans of the kind are not soldered in the usual way. The top and bottom are probably heated with some resinous substance and the edges bent over in order that the cover at either end can be easily removed to convert the can into a drinking cup. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. ITARwOoD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master A. J. FRANK, Commanding U. S. Guardship Wyandank, Piney Point. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ilfcCrea, U. ASK. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, of the seizure of a schooner. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Piney Point, February 24, 1863. SIR: I send you sutlers vessel with milk drink on board, which, upon opening, proves to be a villainous eggnog. I consider her a lawful prize, according to instructions of 23d instant. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. ~. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Captain of the Fleet. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant- Commander MicCrea, U. S. Nary, commanding Sec- ond Division, enjoining vigilance against frauds practiced by sutlers. FEBRUARY 25, 1863. SIR: In boarding vessels of all kinds a careful examination must be made to ascertain that the cargo agrees with the manifest, and especial attention to this point is required with regard to vessels laden with sutlers supplies. In the authority granted by the Navy Department to grant permits to sutlers, the following clause occurs, which you will please keep in view: The said vessel and all her cargo to be forfeite4 to the United States if any other goods are found on hoard than those specified in the manifest on examination by the custom-house officers, or by the military or naval authorities after clearance. Frauds have been recently committed by sutlers by introducing intoxicating drinks in cans purporting to contain milk drink and entered on the manifest as milk, but really containing intoxicating drink. There is reason to suppose that spirits are also smuggled in oyster cans. Boarding officers are to be instructed to be on the alert, and you will please cause the information contained in this letter to be cornmuni- cated to all commanding officers of your division Page 235 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 235 The boarding officer is to take possession of any sutlers vessel by which this fraud is attempted to be practiced. Boarding officers on any station within my command will invariably endorse upon the papers of vessels they board his name and the date of his examination, and enter it upon the log book and report without fail every such examina- tion through their respective commanders to me. You are required, as captain of the fleet, to ascertaii~ that this order is thoroughly understood in both divisions of the flotilla. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant Commander EDWARD P. MCCREA, Commanding Second Division. [Same to Lieutenant-Commander Samuel Magaw, U. S. Navy, with the exceptioi~ of the last paragraph.] Report of Lieutenant-Commander ]Iliagaw, U. S. Navy, commmanding First Diiision Potomac Flotilla, of reconnoissance in Rajppahannock River and engagement with Confederate battery near Fort Lowry, Va., February 21, 1863. Semiofficial.] [U. S. S.] FREEBORN, February 24, 1863. DEAR Siu: I have the honor to report that I have returned from a reconnoissance up the Rappahannock, and without finding the vessels referred to in the enclosed letters of General Hooker. I also enclose a copy of a note to him. I went about 6 miles above Tappahannock. We, the Freeborn and Dragon, engaged a battery oii Saturday (just below the old Fort Lowry, about 8 miles below Tappahannock) about au hour. One of the enemys guns ceased firing after our tenth shot. The Freeborn was struck twice, but none of the crew injured. One of the shot has damaged some woodwork which we can not repair our- selves, and when I get through with some work here I will come to the yard for a day or two. I must report that Acting Masters Mate F. H. Crandall behaved so well under fire (which was sharp) during our skirmish, that I wish him made an ensign. His application for an examination will follow this note. The enemy are in considerable force as far down as Urbana. General Lee was at Occupacia in person when we reached Tappahan- nock. The incidents of our expedition I will tell you when I come up. Respectfully and faithfully, yours, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Enclosures.] EADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 15, 1863. LIEUTENANT: The enclosed report was brought from the officer sent down the neck with an expedition toward Heathsville [Va.]: Major- General Hooker desires that you send to the point named down th Page 236 236 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. IRappahannock, and seize these vessels and all that are capable of car- rying supplies or men across the IRappahannock, in the vicinity 6f lleathville or above. If it is impossible to bring these vessels away with you, destroy them. I am, very respectfully, yours, etc., DANIEL BUTTERFIELD, Major- General and Chief of Staff. Lieutenant-Commander MORGAN [MAGAW], Potomac Flotilla. P. 5.These vessels are supposed to be pungy schooners. Heaths- ville is supposed to be their depot of supplies. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, February 24, 1863. GENERAL: In compliance with your request of the 15th instant, I made an examination of the Itappahannock Creek with the Freeborn and Dragon, and found no pungies or scows. Other creeks were exam- ined, but without success. The enemy have a battery about a mile below Lowrys Point, which we engaged. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yours, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Major-General JOsEPH HOOKER, U. S. Army, Commanding Army of the Potomac. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Din- sion, enjoining a vigilant watch on sutlers vessels. FEBRUARY 27, 1863. SIR: I have received your letter of the 24th instant, with its enclo- sures, relating to your expedition to the Rappahannock. I approve of the prompt manner in which you complied with the wishes of the general commanding, and am pleased that none of our brave fellows were hurt. I have reported the result of your search to the Department ,and mentioned Mr. Crandalls name. His examinationwill be ordered, no doubt, as soon as he applies for it. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea reports that, owing to the occupation of the peninsula by our troops, the contraband trade is for the present checked. Still, I wish the vigilance to be kept up. A sharp eye mast be kept on the sutlers by the boarding officers for liquor smuggled in cans under guise of milk, etc. I enclose you a fornrfor permit issued by the Quartermaster- General. Hereafter all prizes will be sent to the foot of Sixth street wharf, in charge of an officer and prize crew, instead of the navy yard. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla Page 237 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 237 Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nacy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant- Commander ]Ilagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, regarding overhauling of sutlers vessels. FEBRUARY 25, 1863. SIR: I have been incidentally informed that you had gone round to the iRappahannock River. In every material movement you are expected to give me due notice by telegraph or a messenger by one of the steamers nuder your command. In case, for purposes of cooperation with the Army, your movements are directed by the request of the commanding general and will not admit of delay, the information should be communicated through a safe channel as soon as possible, in order that I may regulate supplies and give such instructions as the nature of the case may demand. Your attention is especially called to the letter in reference to frauds committed by sutlers. Their vessels are not to be permitted to pass by a mere clearance, bat may be overhauled at any time or place within the limits of my command, and particularly when there is reason to suspect fraud, as at the present time. I doubt whether there are any volunteer sutlers vessels at this time in whichliquor is not smuggled. We have seized two already at Alexandria, which had cleared the custom-house. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commandei~ SAMUEL MA?AW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Nacy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the seizure of schooner Kate. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 25, 1863. SIR: I have to report to the I)epartment that the sutler schooner Kate has been seized and turned over to the prize commissioners for a discrepancy between the cargo and the manifest similar to the case of the schooner iJfail, reported to the Department in my letter No. 71, of 23(1 instant. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the seizure of schooner Thomas C. Worrell. FEBRUARY 26, 1863. SIR: I have to report that another sutlers vessel, the Tho masJ.[C.] Worrell, from Baltimore to Belle Plain, has been seized by my order, brought to this port, and delivered to the district court Page 238 238 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The schooner contained a large quantity of intoxicating drink, entered on the manifest as milk, in violation of the act of Congress and the rules of the War Department relating to sutlers. I enclose herewith a certificate of capture. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWUOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the seizure of schooner Chatham. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, February 28, 1863. SIR: I have to report the seizure yesterday morning of the sutler schooner Chatham by the guard vessel at Alexandria, Va., for having goods on board not allowed in the schedule issued by the War Depart- ment. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the seizure of the schooners Vista and A. W. Thompson, and transmitting certificates of capture. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFiCE, NAVY YARD, Washington, March 2, 1863. SIR: I enclose for the information of the Department certificate of capture of the sutler schooner Vista; also one of the schooner A. 14/. Thompson, made by the U. S. S. Wyandank, Acting Master A. J. Frank, on the 28th ultimo. The vessels and persons named therein have been turned over to the prize commissioners. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient Servant~ ANDW. A. HARwOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of tke Navy, Nary Department. [Enclosures.] Potomac FIotilla.Certijicate of capture. Name and character ofprize.Schooner Vista. By whom and by what vessel capture made. Wyandank. When capture made.February 28 [18631 Page 239 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 239 Where and for what reason.Piney Point, per commodores orders, for having goods on board not specified in the manifest. The cargo, if any on board.Sutlers stores. What papers found.Voncher No. 1. Remarks.Solomon F. Kirwin, captain; John Hubbard, mate; Isaac Cornish, colored; Henry Kune, colored, G. May~ sutler; J. Valentine, sutler; J. IMietzler, sutler; J. iNumsen, sutler. FEBRUARY 28, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Wyandank, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. A. J. FRANK, Acting Master, Commanding. Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Schooner A. TV. Thompson. By whom and by what vessel capture made. Wyandank. When ~iapture made.February 28 [1863]. Where and for what reason.Piney Point, per commodores orders, for having goods on board not specified in the manifest. The cargo, ~J. any on board.Sutlers stores. What papers found.Voucher No. 1. Remarks.G-. T. Lee, mate, acting as captain; J. Weever, colored seam an; boy Charles, colored seaman; J. Paul Jones, sutler; Wesley J. Phillips, clerk; H. Bennett, clerk; Samuel Preston, servant, D. H. Williams, in the employ of J. Brickman. FEBRUARY 28, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner, called the A. TV. Thompson, was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Wyandank, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig- nated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. A. J. FRANK, Acting Master, Commanding. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding the Potomac Plo Primrose tilia,to Acting Alaster Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. - to proceed to duty in the First Division. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, ilfarch 7, 1863. SIR: Proceed without delay with the U. S. S. Primrose to Aquia Creek, ascertain where Lieutenant-Commander Magaw is to be found, and report the Primrose as ready for service in the First Division of the Potomac Flotilla. Respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master WM. T. STREET, Commanding U. S. S. Prini rose Page 240 240 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transutitting certificates of capture. POTOlvIAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, March 10, 1863. Sin: I forward herewith the certificate of the capture of a small sloop by the Eureka, and also of John C. Faber, Thomas It. Jones, Johii S. Wilson, and one contraband, who were taken nnder circumstances described in the certificate by Acting Master Alvin Phinney, com- manding the U. S. schooner Racer. Wilson and Jones have declared themselves to be Confederate so] diers. The sloop and crew taken by the Eureka have beeii turned over to the district court, the men captured by Mr. Phinney to the military authorities. The packages purporting to contain the sums in gold and bills have been secured by me until 1 shall have received a decision as to the proper disposition of them, the only course left for me to take since the notice given me by the district attorney that money taken under the circumstances described in the certificate of capture (enclo- sure. 2) does not come within the jurisdiction of the admiralty court. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla.Certiflcate of capture. ATalne and character of the prize.Sloop; no name; two prisoners, named David Snioot and Charles Posey. By whom and by what vessel capture made.J. B. Fairchild, actiiig masters mate; U. S. S. Eureka. When capture made.M arch 7, 1863. Where and for what reasons.On the Virginia shore of the Potomac River; attempting to smuggle whisky into Virginia. The cargo, if any on board.Three barrels of whisky. What papers found. None. Remarks.As I was standing down the Potomac River and off Wicomico River I discovered a sloop standing in for the Virginia shore. Before I overhauled her the prisoners, David Smoot and Charles H. Posey, hove overboard 3 barrels of whisky. They acknowledged the fact of attempting to run the blockade for the purpose herein stated. U. S. S. EUREKA, March 7, 1863. I hereby certify that the above.mentioned prisoners, sloop, and cargo were captured by the nndersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Eureka, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. B. FAIRCHILD, Acting Masters Mate, Commanding. Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of j~rize.One rowboat, small yawlno names containing the following persons: John C. Faber, Thomas It. Jones, John S. Wilson, one contraband Page 241 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 241 By whom and by what ves8el capture made.Alviu Phinney, acting master, commanding U. S. schooner Racer. Wken capture made.March 6, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Jn mouth of Bretons Bay; for attempt- ing to run the blockade. What papers found.One draft, $650, on Messrs. Frick & Ball, Bal- tiinore, Md., payable at sight to Augustus McLaughlin; signed Wil- ham Frick, jr., dated Columbus, Ga., January 21, 1863. One draft, $200, on John Cushing, esq., in favor of Robert ilough, signed John Cushing, Jr., dated Richmond, February 18, 1863. One draft, $300, ou John S. Gidding & Co., in favor of herself, and signed by Fanny 1~IcBlair, dated Charlotte, N. C., February 18, 1863. Remarks.These persons refused to stop when hailed and ran their boat on shore and attempted to escape by running, but were taken a short distance from the boat. Upon being searched, there were found upon John C. Faber the three drafts before mentioned, also $241 in bank notes, mostly Yirginia money. Upon Thomas R. Jones $1,000 in gold. The boat being worthless was destroyed. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prisoners were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. mortar schooner Racer, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. ALVIN PHINNEY, Actinq Master, Commanding U. S. Schooner Racer. [Endorsement.] Acting Master Phinney states in a letter under date March 7: In arranging the papers for sending, Mr. Whitmore mislaid one of the drafts, the one for $200, and it can not be found at present, but when it is found I will forward it. ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Letter from the Assistant Secretary of the Navy to Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting regulations for fishing in the Potomac River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 13, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith a copy of a letter received from Brigadier- General J. H. Martindale, military governor of the District, transmit- ting a printed copy of Regulations for fishing in the Potomac River. You will recognize, countersign, and register the permits issued by General Martindale, and allow the parties mentioned in each to fish within the limits prescribed in the license, subject to the regulations and conditions. Very respectfully, G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of Navy Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Washington Navy Yard. N W RVOL 51 Page 242 242 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosure.] Regulations for fishing in the Potomac River. Permits will be granted to persons applying to catch fish in the Potomac River during the present season upon the following conditions: First. The applicant must be a loyal citizen of the United States; to be accredited in writing, by some citizen of known loyalty, as a loyal person. Applications for fishing permits must be made in writing, signed by the applicant; must specify his place of residence and occu- pation, and design ate the place and limits within which thefishing license is to extend. Second. Persons who design to cure fish must also specify in their application the place where the fish is to be cured, the quantity to be cared, and the quantity of salt to be used in the operation; and salt permits will be granted at the discretion of the military governor for curing fish, only on the Maryland shore. Third. He shall take the oath of allegiance. He shall not take salt, spirituous liquors, or any munitions of war on to the Virginia shore; nor any articles whatever, excel)t provisions for himself and the men employed by him, and the boats tackle and implements necessary for fishing. Fourth. He shall not permit any person whatever, except the men employed by him, to pass the river in any boat under his control; nor in any manner aid communications between the Virginia and Maryland shores. Fifth. He shall employ no person to assist him except of known loyalty to the Government of the United States. The names of all persons employed by him shall, before entering on their employment, be registered in the office of the military governor, and be approved by him. They shall also be furnished with permits to assist the applicant as fishermen. Sixth. Before commencing to fish under this permit below George- town, he shall report to the commodore commanding the Potomac Flotilla, in order that this permit may be countersigned by him and registered. He will be under the surveillance of the naval force on duty on the Potomac River. Seventh. He shall execute a bond, with reasonable surety, in the penal sum of not less than $1,000, conditioned that there shall be no violation of the terms or spirit of the permit granted to him. Such bond shall be approved by the military governor of Washington and filed in his office. Eighth. Any departure from the limits prescribed in the license, or any violation of the foregoing ternis, will subject the party to forfeiture of his bond and license, and his boats and tackles to seizure, and also himself to such fine and punishment, by imprisonment, as may be imposed by a military commission. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding condition of the U~ S. S. Dragon and insufficiency of force of his command. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, March 14, 1863. DEAR Sin: The Dragon has broken down and is at Alexandria. I have not the officers to investigate the case, so I wish you would do s Page 243 OPEEATLONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 243 I was at headquarters yesterday. There can be no immediate move, the roads are so bad. Captain McCrea told me he would give me thirty of sixty-five men we required for the flotilla. I have not seen them, and some of my division are short-handed. Very faithfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAcTAW, Lieutendnt- Commander. Commodore ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting certificate of capture. POTOMAC FLOTiLLA, Navy Yard, Washington, P. C., March 18, 18G3. SIR: I transmit for the informnatjon of the Department a certificate of capture made by the U. S. S. C.~ieur de Lion on the 13th instant. The merchandise is now at this yard, and the prisoner, George Chap- elear, is in custody of the provost-marshal of the military district of Washington. 1 have also to report for the information of the Department the cap- ture of six persons by the U. S. S. Racer, in an attempt to run the blockade on the 14th instant. On the person of W. L. Dent, one of the prisoners, was found three drafts on persons in Washington and New York, amounting to $1,519. In addition to the above was found on the persoii of Jacob Silner one $500 North Carolina State bond, and on the person of Abm. llunchbeck a sum purporting to amount to $161 in money. These men witl~ two colored persons were in the boat and picked up off Wicomico I~iver by the U. S. S. Wyandank, of the flotilla. Several refugees, said to be from Virginia, were also brought up by the Wyandank, and have been placed in the custody of the provost- marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, [ANDW. A. HA~woon,] Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Nary Department. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla.Certificate of captere. Name and character of the prize.One canoe, no name; one prisoner, George Chapelear. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Acting Master Chailes II. Brown, U. S. S. Ca3ur de Lion. When capture made.March 13, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Caught running the blockade. The cargo, ~f any on board.Assorted goods in trunks, boxes, and bale. What papers found.None. Remarks.At 9:30 a in., while lying at anchor in Blakistone Island Harbor, saw a canoe come out of Shanks Island Creek, standing over toward Virginia. Got underway and stood toward her, firing as w Page 244 244 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. caught sight of her between the snow squalls. At length we succeeded in driving her ashore and captured the goods and one of the persons; the others (four in number) escaped. It blowing very strong and a heavy sea running, the goods were much damaged before they were received oii board. The cargo consisted of 2 trunks, dry goods, aiid fancy articles; 3 boxes, contents unknown; 1 bale shoe thread; 1 leather valise of needles, etc.; 1 bag, containing dry goods; 1 empty carpetbag. All the above much damaged by water. BLAKISTONE ISLAND ANCHORAGE, March 13, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned canoe, prisoner, and nier- chandise were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Cxur de Lion, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. CHAS. II. I3ROWN, Acting Master, Commanding. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, requesting permission to reconnoiter certain creeks of the Potomac River. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Off Aquia Creek, March 20, 1863. SIR: Believing there is an avenue yet open at Popes, Mattox, and Monroes creeks, Virginia (which are but 2 miles apart), from Wicornico River, Maryland, to run the blockade, I would respectftilly ask permis- sion to proceed thither with a small force (say two vessels besides the Primrose) to make a reconnoissance of the above creeks for the purpose of ascertaining if there are any boats or persons up the same that still carry on the contraband trade. This point is entirely unguarded, both by troops on the Maryland shore or the flotilla, nor has there ever been, to my knowledge, any expedition maqe up either of these creeks by vessels or boats of the flotilla, and from my personal knowledge of the above places, they have been and still are the main aveiiues of trade to Virginia. Hoping that I am acting in accordance with duty in making the above application, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM T. STREET Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Order of Lieutenant- Commander ]Jfagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Street, U. S. Nary, corn- manding U. S. S. Primrose, regarding the examination of creeks enter- ing the Potomac River. U. S. S. FREEBORN, March 21, 1863. SIR: You will make such an examination of Upper Machodoc, Mon- roes, Mattox, and Popes creeks, Virginia (and Rosiers), as you deem safe, with the following force, viz, the Primrose, Teaser, and ten men (volunteers), from the Freeborn or Yankee Page 245 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 245 Care must be taken against surprise or an attack upon pickets or scouts that may bQ our own. The object you will keep iii mind is the seizure of such boats and arrest of such men as may still be engaged iii the contraband trade. You must guard against your men straggling or foraging. Mr. Rollins, captaius clerk, will accompany you as guide. Yours, faithfully, SAMUEL MACAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Acting Master STREET, U. S. Navy, Commanding Primrose, First Division. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, of examination of Popes Creek, Yirginia, and capture of two boats at Great Meadows, Va. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Potomac Flotilla, March 24, 1863. SIR: In obedience to your orders of the 21st instant, I this morning proceeded to Popes Creek, Virginia, in company with the U. S. S. Teaser, and landed at the mouth of the creek, but finding there was not water enough to admit the passage of my boats, I walked up the shore a distance of 2 miles. I found nothing but a small seine boat and seine. I then left the creek and went to the residence of Mr. John Critcher. I found no one there bnt colored persons, from one of whom I gained information that there were a number of boats below at a place known as the Great Meadows. I immediately returned to my vessel, got underway and steamed down the river, accompanied by the U. S. S. Teaser, to the above-named place, where, upon landing, I found a boat that had been used to run the blockade. I sent Captain rPliilip] Sheridan and crew up a ravine, in which, about 200 yards,.they found a large canoe conc~led in the bushes that had evidently been used for the same purpose. Further search was made, but found no other boats. Had it not been storming I think it very probable we would have during the night arrested the parties engaged in running the blockade, as I was informed they lived only a short distance from the landing. Both the boats I brought away, and will deliver them to you. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAw, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Weekly report of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, command ing First Division Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. YANKEE, March 24, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the position of the vessels of the First Division during the past week and at present: Station A.Mortar schooner A. Hugel Page 246 246 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Station B.Mortar schooner Daniel Smith and steamer Resolute. Station 0.Steamers Yankee and Freeborn. Siation D.Mortar schooner Sophronia and steamers Primrose and Teaser. The Dragon is employed as a dispatch vessel and remains at Aquia Creek when I am absent. Nothing worthy of note has occurred. The Primrose and Teaser are examiniiig the creeks on the Virginia side on Station D, and have destroyed some boats on suspicion of their having been used in cross- Pig the river. The Freeborn brought up from the lower or Second Division some refugees. I suspected some of them of carrying mails and turned them over to the provost-marshal at this place. We will send them to Wash- ington after due examination. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. llA~RwooD, etc. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report regarding seizure of schooner B. Waterman by U. S. S. Reliance. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, D. C., March 24, 1863. SIR: On Friday, the 20th instant, the schooner F. Waterman was seized and sent up to this yard by Acting Master W. P. Dockray, of the U. S. S. Reliance. She was found at St. Marys River without cus- tom-house papers of any kind. The papers in possession of her master at the time of her seizure show that she had been employed by the Army for the purpose of car- rying freight. Among them are two orders, one of them in lead pencil from Cap- tain and Assistant Quartermaster J. G. Johnson, both expressed in the following terms: ASSISTANT QUARTERMASTERS OFFICE, Aquia Creek, J7a., March 18G3. SIR: You will at once proceed to Baltimore and U~Oll your arrival report to W. The CAPTAIN OF THE SCHOONER WATERMAN. The Department will observe that the Waterman was picked up, not on her way to Baltimore, but in St. Marys River, the proper locality f6r taking on board contraband goods to the opposite shore at Wicomico. The schooner had no cargo on board, and judging from antecedent decisions, no intentional violation of law will be found against her; but I must protest against vessels employed by the land forces having so much license to move within the region of blockade by the authority only of an order from an assistant quartermaster. The F. Waterman must formerly have had a clearance from the cus tom house at Baltimore, as she had a Potomac pass in December last to bring up a cargo of oats, which she could not have obtained without the clearance Page 247 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 247 I would enquire whether it is regular for freight vessels employed by the Quartermasters Department to sail without the usual license froiii the custom-house; if so, I am of opinion it will lead to great abuse. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAuwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES Secretary o3 the Nary. [Enclosure.]. U. S. S. RELIANCE, St. ilfarys, March 20, 1863. SIR: The schooner F. Waterman, which I this day seized and have sent to the yard in charge of Acting Ensigu Walters, is as clear a case oC violation of the revenue laws as has ever come under my observa- tion, as she has neither register, license, nor enrollment; and how she passed all the gun. and mortar boats with tlie guard vessels at Piney Point on the papers I have forwarded to you is beyond my conipreheu- sion, coming a~ she did from Aquia Creek. She is a flue schooner and valuedby her owner at $10,000. She has no cargo. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. DOCKRAY, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington Navy Yard. 0 Report qf Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding regulations governing fisheries in the Potomac River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, CO~I1~IANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, March 25, 1863. SIR: Lieutenant-Commander Magaw has written to me that not being aware of the new regulations of the War Department goverhing the fisheries of the Potomac, he had given permission to several persons to fish under the terms agreed upou between him and General Hooker when the latter commanded at Budds Ferry last year, namely, cer- tain channel limits, and if caaght or reported for using their boats for any other purpose, the boats were to be broken up, the nets confiscated, and the parties tnrned over to the provost-marshal. Lieutenant- Coin- mauder Magaw observes that some men who depend upon fishiuig for a living, and operate upon a very small scale, can not give the bond required. He has been informed that a Baltimorean by the name of Cunningham is about to fish at Budds Ferry on a larger scale than the poorer class of fishermen can afford to do, and yet his securities and license amonnt to the same as those who only work one gill net. It seems to me right that, while due care is taken that fishing and nothing else should be the occupation of the parties, the poorer class of fishermen should be the favored one, if any distinction be made at all. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw represents furthermore that the Mary- land shore is now pretty thoroughly picketed and that the pickets had commenced taking boats from all parties without cause that he could see. He was about having an interview with the colonel commanding at Liverpool Point upon the subject Page 248 248 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I have sent to Brigadier-General Martindale a copy of that part of Lieutenant-Commander Magaws letter relating to the fisheries. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Mc~Jrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding disposition of vessels. U. S. S. KING- PHILIP, Potomac Flotilla, March 26, 1863. SIR: In obedience to your order I have visited the several stations of the Potomac Flotilla under my command, and would report that the Wyandank has been relieved by the mortar schooner Racer as guard vessel, and the first named has beeii sent to her former station in Wicomico River. My command is considerably weakened by the absence of the Jacob Bell, Satellite, and Wyandank, also by the Eureka not being serviceable iii parts of the river about Piney Point, owing to heavy winds and seas. The light duties of the upper division 1 would suggest could easily dispense with two vessels, say Primrose and Dragon, their armament being sufficiently heavy to join any expedition or cooperative force up the Itappahannock, and furthermore, the guard vessel at Piney Point being a sailing craft requires a steamer within signal distance to pre- vent vessels violating the pass regulations. Again a necessity of more force is occasioned by transports landing troops on the Virginia and Maryland shores and waiitonly destroying property and otherwise mal- treating the inhabitants. The upper division is guarding a section where our own troops are, while this is entirely under the control of the naval force of this division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Captain of the Fleet, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARwOoD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington Navy Yard. P. 5.Since writing the above the U. S. S. Jacob Bell has arrived on her station; she is but a light addition under the circumstances. E. P. MCCREA. General instructions of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant. Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, com- manding First Division. MARCH 26, 1863. SIR: Your letters of the 20th, 22d, and 23d instant have been received. With reference to the Dragon, it appears that the information I received that she had been injured in pulling the Primrose off was incorrect Page 249 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 249 Please to send regularly a weekly report from all the vessels in your division, and cause such enquiries to be made in all cases requiring notice that I may be kept informed of the condition oP the flotilla. If nothing of moment occurs, let me know at least exactly where each vessel is stationed. As your command extends to Alexandria, I wish you to see that a proper lookout is kept for all the points on the Virginia shore where there is a probability of the contraband trade being carried on. There are many persons who have passes for transporting manure, wood, etc., which should be looked after. I have sent an extract of your unofficial note to Brigadier-General Martindale. I have also sent a copy of that part of the letter which relates to the fisheries to the Department. The arrangement as it now stands does not appear to me just, and I am in hopes of having some modification established in favor of the poorer class of fishermen. I send you a copy * of the regulations established by the War Depart- ment, with the approbation of the Secretary of the Navy. You will see that by article 6 all fisheruXen are under the surveillance of the flotilla. I enclose you a general order from the Department relative to pas- sengers and others, which you will be careful to communicate to all commanding officers in your division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, regarding expedition to Rosiers Creek, Virginia. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station D, Potomac Flotilla, March 27, 1863. SIR: I yesterday made an expedition to Rosiers Creek, Virginia, in company with the U. S. S. Teaser. I arrived off the creek at 12 in., and made all arrangements to land with safety, as we were about 10 miles beyond the picket lines of our Army, and as I had seen Confederate cavalry in the vicinity but a few days before. I first lauded at the farm on Bluff Point, for the purpose of ascertaining if it were safe to proceed up the creek with our boats. Upon landing I found that there had been no rebel cavalry seen for a few days past. I therefore ordered Captain Shirk, with his two boatsone under his own charge, the other under the charge of Masters Mate [Charles] Caseto proceed np the creek, followed by two boats from this vessel under the charge of Mas- ters Mate Jacob Hahn, while Mr. Rollins (our guide) ,Mr. [L. B.] Leland, second assistant engineer, and myself, with a small force, walked around the shore, keeping abreast of the boats. We went up the creek to its head and found two boats, one of which was destroyed, the other brought away, which, with your permission, I will keep for the use of the flotilla. We did not meet any resistance, nor did we see any cav- alry. I visited several farmhouses and found all the inhabitants *S 242 Page 250 250 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. strong advocates of secession. There are, however, very few men left in this section of the country, which looks in a most desolate condition, the poor people having scarcely the necessaries of life. I would most respectfully call your attentiou thereto. 1 learned also that there are but few scouts or guerrillas in the northern neck, and front Westmore- laud Court-House west a force caii be landed from the gunboats with safety, but below that point cavalry cross from the Happahannock iiightly. There is very little crossing on the Potomac at present except by Jews, aided by men back in the forest, and whom I can not get, as these expeditions are made in the daytime, when they take to the woods. I have two more expeditions to make, viz, Mattox and lTpper Mach- odoc creeks, and when they are complete(l there will be no more cross- ing between Mathias Point and Komini Cliffs, as I will then have all the boats destroyed, both on land and iii the water. I find that our gnide, Mr. Louis N. Rollins, is thoronghly acquaiiited with the country, and with his aid am enabled to carry out the inten. tion of these expeditions with dispatch. I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant, W. TELL STREET, Acting ilfaster, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding arrest of coutrabandists. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, April 6, 1863. Sin: Acting Master W. T. Street arrested two persons, named Bow- lin Curley and James Sutton, living on Bluff Poimit, Virginia, and engaged in supplying the rebels with goods. On the 27th ultimo Curley attempted to haul certain supplies across the peninsula to the Rappahannock, but was iLltercel)ted by our cavalry, who captured time vehicle and goods, but Curley escaped. The goods in question were secreted in Suttons house at Bluff Point (below Mathias). The men above named have been actively engaged in contraband operations, for which the locality (the narrowest part of the peninsula nearly opposite to Port Royal) gives them the best facil- ities. Persons of this character have been before arrested and after a short confinement released, which should not be the case unless ample secu- rity is given that they will not return to their old business, as they materially aid in keeping up the supplies, which are, like money, the sinews of war. I have placed these men in the custody ~f the provost-marshal and given him all the information in my possession in relation to them. I have the honor to be, with grea.t respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 251 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 251 Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, of boat expedition up Monroes Creek, Virginia. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station D, Potomac Flotilla, March 31, 1863. SIR: Since making my last report I learned that at the time of our ill) there were creted iu the cellar of expedition Rosiers Creek ooods se Mi. Suttons house on Bluff Point, and on the night following he carted them over to Bowlin Curley, on Monroes Creek. This was on Friday luoht On Saturday night Mr. Curley attempted to haul the goods over to the Rappahannock, but was intercepted by our cavalry, who cal)tured , Jr. Curley escaped. I last night, horses, cart, and goods but ~ in company with Captain Sheridan, of the Teaser, with three boats, went up Monroes Creek and succeeded in capturing Mr. Curley. He does not hesitate to say that he has aided the blockade runners largely. From a Mr. King, living at Kinsale (Mr. Watsons house, I have been able to gain important information. He states that two nights previous to my landing at Bluff Point a sloop belonging to Mr. James Woodey (living in Accomac County, eastern shore of Virginia) landed goods at Mr. Suttons, and that she lnakes a trip every eight or ten days, landing the goods either at White Point or at Mr. Suttons. I have not beeii able to learn the name of the sloop, but will keep a sharp lookout for her. This morning I steamed up to Bluff Point and sent an armed boat on shore nuder the charge of Masters Mate Charles Stewart to arrest Mr. Sutton, which he succeeded in doing. I send both of the prisoners to you by the Teaser. Mr. Rollins, your clerk, Mr. Benjamin, of the Teaser, and Mr. Leland, second assistant engineer of this vessel, accompanied me on this occa- sion. Both officers and men on this expedition acted to my entire satisfaction, and am happy to add that thus far no casualties have occurred. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAw, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report ~f Actinri Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, requesting authority for arrest of contrabandists. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station D, Potomac Flotilla, March 31, 1863. SIR: I would most respectfully call youi- attention to the enclosed letter, * received by Mr. Rollins from his father; the names of the individuals mentioned therein are Milton Marmaduke, Edward Porter; the other not known. There is a large quafitity of cured meat at varion~ points belonging to rebels in arms against the Government, and fro-n various reliable sources I learn that they are waiting a favorable opportunity to convey ~NoL found Page 252 252 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. the same to the Army over the iRappahannock. May I ask if you will give me an order to take it; also to arrest the above persons ~ I am, sir, your obedient servant, W. TELL STREET, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAw, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Van Boskirk, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Adolph Hugel, regarding capture of whisky. U. S. S. ADOLPH HUGEL, Guard Ship off Alexandria, April 1, 1863. SIR: While one of the boats of this vessel was out on guard duty nuder the charge of Acting Masters Mate Horace B. Miller during last night, he captured a boat on the Maryland shore loaded with four breakers of whisky. The appearance of the boat indicated that it had been hastily abandoned. After taking the whisky from the boat, destroyed it, as it was half full of water and nearly unfit for use. I take this first opportunity of sending the officer that captured it to you, having in charge the whisky. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES VAN BOSKIRK, A cting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. HARwoon, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Instructions from Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Poto- mac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander JIJlagaw, U. S. Navy, command- ing First Division, regarding seizure of supplies intended for the Confederate Government. APRIL 6, 1863. SIR: I have received your letter aud the reports of Acting Master W. T. Street. The utmost vigilance is expected to prevent the transmission of sap- plies across the peninsula. With regard to the letter of Mr. Rollins and the accumulation of cured meat and other provisions, supposed to be intended to supply the enemy, proper care must be taken to discriminate between provisions laid up for the use of the people who work the plantations and goods evidently stored up to supply the enemy. Due allowance in entertain- ing reports must be made for the embittered feeling which exists on what may be termed the neutral ground. Whenever you are satisfied from reliable sources that goods or pro- visions are to be found which are intended for transportation to the rebel lines, you ~ ill give immediate notice to the nearest provost- marshal of the Army, and proffer any naval assistance that may be necessary. Act at your discretion if there are no military authorities within reach, and if there are, refer cases which relate to the land to them Page 253 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 253. Your question with regard to passengers belonging to the land forces has been referred to the Navy Department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL IVIAG-AW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture by U. S. steamers Currituck and Anacostia. PoToMAc FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, D. C., April 7, 1863. SIR: I enclose for the information of the Department a certificate of capture made on the 3d instant by the U. S. steamers Currituck and Anacostia, of the Potomac Flotilla. The tobacco was found screted in the house of James Hurst, a noted smuggler, situated about a mile from the anchorage at Indian Creek, Virginia. Hurst made his escape. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary q,f the Navy. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, PoToMAc FLOTILLA, indian Creek, Va., April 3, 1863. SIR: Having received information from a reliable source that a quantity of medicines for the use of the rebel Army was expected at this place, I left the Rappahannock this morning, accompanied by the Anacostia. On arriving here I detailed fifty men from the two vessels to pro- ceed to the house of James Hurst, about a mile from our anchorage, who was the consignee; he left on our approach and could not be cap- lured. The house was thoroughly searched and 19 boxes of tobacco found. We ascertained that a quantity of goods was sent by him to Richmond that morning. I have reason to know that Hurst is the most extensive speculator in the county, and his house the headquarters of all the smugglers from the Maryland shore and all rebel soldiers belonging to the county on leave of absence. I send you the tobacco in the care of Paymaster Frank Clarke, of this vessel, who goes to Washington for funds. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding, and Senior Officer, Station H. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C Page 254 .254 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Potomac Flotilla.Certiftcate oJ capture. Name and character of prize.Eighteen boxes tobacco. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Currit~tck and Anacostia. When capture made.April 3, 1863. Where and for what reasons.At the house of James Hurst, I mile from indian Creek, Virginia; a large speculator iii smuggled goods. APRIL 4, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned 18 boxes tobacco was cap- tured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Currituck, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEJiZIN, Acting Master, Commanding. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 13, 1863. Send the~ Yankee and one other steamer to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee at once. Send list, s einimouthly, of your force. GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWoOD Secretary of the Navy. Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. [Telegram.] iNAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, April 13, 18631:40 p. m. Orders will go down immediately for the Yankee and the Primrose to join Acting Rear-Admiral Lee. The report of my force will be sent in as sxm as it can be made up. Currituck, Reliance, and Satellite are all at the yard for repairs. There is but one steamer of any force at the Rappahannock. A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 13, 1863. At what hour and date did the Penobscot, Yankee, and Primrose leave for Hampton Roads l Send two more of your lightest draft armed steamers without delay, and report what hour they leave. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore HARWOOD, Navy Yard, Washington Page 255 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 255 Order of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander McCrea, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, regarding U. S. S. Primrose. POTOMAC FLOTILLA. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, April 13, 1863. SIR: Dispatch the U. S. S. Primrose without delay to Newport News, Va., and direct Acting Master Street to report his vessel for service on her arrival to Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee, commanding North Atla~itic Blockading Squadron. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander EDWARD P. MCCREA, Commanding ~Second Division Potomac Flotilla. [Endorsementi SIR: You will report immediately in obedience to the above order. Very respectfully, etc., E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander, Second Division, Captai~~ of the Fleet. [Acting Master STREET, U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. S. Primrose.] Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Jfagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, transmitting letter from General Hooker, U. S. Army, requesting cooperation in the Rappahannock River. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, April 14, 1863. DEAR SIR: The Yankee has sailed for Newport News. I enclose you a copy of General Hookers letter of last night. 1 have sent an extract to McCrea, and will leave here this afternoon for the Rappahannock. I sen(l the Resolute up with this note, and a sick man from the Yankee. As I have but this steamer, the Teaser, and Resolute, I will be obliged to take one of the Second Division and will probably see Captain McCrea to-night. The schooner T. A. Ward remains at Aquia during my absence. Your letters, per Resolute, were duly received, and those for Captain McCrea sent down by the Yankee. Very respectfully, etc., SAMUEL MACAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding. [Enclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 13, 1863. The major-general commanding directs me to request that you will send two of your gunboats into the Rappahaunock River to come up as far as Port Royal, and farther, if possible. He has reason to believe that the batteries located on the river below Port Royal have been withdrawn Page 256 256 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCR. It is desired that your demonstrations shall hold the enemy in that vicinity, and keep them from retiring. If the batteries are there, the purposes for which you go would be favored by ~xchanging a few shots with them. It is hoped that this movement will be made as soon as possible. He also desires that you should communicate to Commander McCrea his request that he will have a portion of his fleet ready to convoy a fleet of supplies to the Pamunkey River. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Lieutenant-Commander MA~AW, Potomac Flotilla. Unofficial letter from Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, com- manding First Division, to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, com- manding Potomac Flotilla, regarding proposed expedition to Port Royal, Va. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, April 14, 186312 p. m. My DEAR SIR: I shall make an effort to reach Port Royal by to-morrow night (15th), although I think Major-General Hooker, on our part, is making a very small feint. If we had some transports with raw troops on board, the enemys attention might be attracted, but without a cooperating force, I fear General W. P. Lee will laugh at us. We are hard up for pilots, but will do our best. I shall take with me the Anacostia and Dragon. Respectfully and faithfully, yours, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Conimodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding the withdrawal of vessels Jbr duty in the Rappahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, D. C., April 15, 1863. SIR: I sent the Ella down yesterday with orders to dispatch the Cceur de Lion and Teaser. I had previously sent the order by tele- graph to Aquia Creek. The orders for the Primrose and Yankee were duly dispatched by the Resolute on Monday. Last evening, April 14, I received the following telegram from Lieu- tenant-Commander Magaw, from Aquia: Yenlcee has gone. Lieutenant-Commander McCrea will receive your telegraphic order in relation to tlie Cwur de Lion and will send the Cceur de Lion. I will send the Teaser to-night. This morning the Resolute returned and brought me information that Lieutenant-Commander Magaw had beeti called upon by General Hooker to assist him in the Rappahannock, and had left Aquia Creek for that purpose Page 257 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 257 I send a copy of General Hookers letter * to the Department by an officer that the exact state of things may be understood. The Freeborn, Jacob Bell, Dragon, and Anacostia are the only effect- ive steamers for the service required, and the withdrawal of them leaves the Potomac River comparatively unguarded. The Resolute is only fit for river duty, as her boilers want repairs. The Currituck, Satellite, .and Reliance are at the yard for repairs; the Reliance will be ready for service to-morrow afternoon. The first two will be in hand two or three weeks. I beg leave to request the decision of the Depart- ment in relation to Acting Master Dockray, referred to in my letter of the 11th instant, No. 164, forwarding the record of a board of enquiry in his case. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAuwoo~, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. The master boiler maker has just reported that the Resolute is not safe for farther service, and that five weeks will be required to cOin- plete her repairs. A. A. H. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 15, 1863. You will have to carry out General Hookers wishes with what force you have, retaining one steamer in the Potomac besides the Ella. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. Weekly report of Lieutenant- Commander Ale Crea, U. S. Navy, command- ing Second Division Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, GUARD SHIP, Piney Point, April 15, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following: Since my last report the Yankee and Teaser of the First Division, and the Cwur de Lion and Primrose, of this division, have been ordered to report to Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee at Hampton Roads, agreeably to your orders. There now remains in this division the Jacob Bell, at present guard ship; Eureka, Wyandank, storeship at Wicomico Sta- tion in the Potomac; Anacostia and Dragon, on Rappahannock station (H). The two latter at present are with Captain Magaw, he having gone up the Rappahannock at the request of General Hooker. Captain Magaw forwarded me a request of General Hookers, that I would have [a] portion of my vessels ready to convoy a fleet of supplies to the Pamnukey River. The Pamunkey being under Admiral Lees command, I l)urpOsed, had the supplies arrived, to convoy theni to the See p. 255. N W RVOL 5 1 Page 258 258 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. senior officer in Admiral Lees command on the station below the Plan- katank and turn them over to him, as I considered I could not trespass on Admiral Lees departrneiit without proper authority. I have no vessels now for any purpose save this one, which is the guard slflJ). I should like to have the Ella for the purpose of passing np and down the whole river, as the six mortar schooners are at their respective stations, and as captain of the fleet and senior officer present during the temporary absence of Captain Magaw. Extremely l)ad weather since the receipt of your order regarding the vessels detailed to Admiral Lee has prevented their departure, but will leave at the first favorable change in the weather. Pilots decline going out ill the heavy sea. I have forwarded you a report of the engineer of the Eureka concern- ing the machinery of that vessel. April 16, G a. m.U. S. steamers Yankee, Cwur de Lion, Primrose, and Teaser sailed at 5:15 a. in. to-day for their destination. 11 send the Ella up immediately to let you know. I hope you [will] send her imme- diately back to inc for service. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. ~. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Captain of the Fleet. Commodore A. A. IlARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. Report ~f Commodore Haruood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting intelligence regarding operations in the Bappak an- nock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, April 20, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith the copy of a letter from Acting Master Nelson Provost to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, giving some infor- ination relative to the operations of the vessels belonging to the flotilla, and of the enemy in and near the IRappaliannock. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, ~ Potomac Flotilla. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. ANACOSTIA, Potomac Flotilla, April 17, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that, according to your instruc- tions of the 15th instant, I proceeded up the Ral)pahannock River in company with the U. S. S. Dragon, Acting Master [George E.] hill, commanding. We arrived at Bristoe [Brisco] mines too late to proceed any farther with safety and anchored. From reliable information we found that the enemy were in strong force and with heavy batteries from Port Tobago [Tobacco, Va.] (4 miles above us) up to Fredericksburg; also that General J ackson commands the enemy below Fredericksburg Page 259 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 259 Three hundred of the enemys cavalry crossed the river above Bristoe Brisco] mines on last Sunday evening, and remained two days, expect- ing to cut off some of our cavalry. There is a line of new entrench- ments below Laytons, and a rebel regiment of cavalry under Colonel [S.] Cratchfield, 2 miles back. From information, I considered it pru- dent to drop down below Leeds during the night, as we had attracted the attention of the enemy, and spread the report that we were coming in force. During our passage up the river (110 miles) and down, we did not receive any shots, although they had everything prepared to cut us off at or about Laytons, if we had remained a few hours longer. I am convinced that squads of the enemys cavalry cross the river above and below Bristoc [Briscoj mines, almost daily. From Jones Bluff, and all the way up the river we saw numerous army wagons. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAw, Commanding First Dicision Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting enclosures regarding the disposition of theforce under his command. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, April 22, 1863. SIR: I have this morning received the enclosed telegram from Gen- eral Butteilield to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, and as General Hooker is not apparently aware that all the disposable steamers are already cooperating with him or temporarily detached for service under Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee, I enclose also a list of the vessels com- posing time Potomac Flotilla, with their whereabouts and conditioii,in order to prevent any misapprehension with regard to the availability of the flotilla in its present condition to assist the Army in two different quarters at once. It is proper to remind the Department that the whole force of the yard has been employed in repairing vessels from differeut squadrons, and that the service which the vessels were upon being of a more imupor- taut character than that in which the Potomac Flotilla has been engaged, the timely repair of vessels under my command has been unavoidably postponed until it could be deferred no longer. The call for what remains in condition for service in different quarters has been embarrassing, but I do not complain of that, and merely request to state in time exactly to what extent assistance can be afforded. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD. [ion. GiDEON WELLES, ~eeretary of the Navy.] [EnclosuresTelegram.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 20, 1863. The major-general commanding desires to be informed of the number of boats in the Potomac Flotilla, what you have, and where the boat Page 260 260 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. are. He has been advised by the President that they will act under his orders. He desires that none should go away without his knowl- edge. He desires the same information with regard to the fleet of Com- modore McCrea. Please answer. DANL. BUTTERFIELD, Major- General, Chief of Staff. Lientenant-Commander MAGAW. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, April 22, 18G3. The vessels of the Potomac Flotilla are distributed as follows: Undergoing repairs at the nacy yard. Steamers.Satellite, Currituck, Resolute. With Acting Rear-Admiral Lees squadron. Steamers. Yankee, Teaser (disabled), Cexur de Lion (disabled in action), wheelhouse and wheel shot away in action in the Upper INansemond on the 18th; Primrose. Under Lieutenant-Commander E. P. McCrea. Steam ers.Jacob Bell, crank cracked and banded for temporary serv- ice; Eureka, only fit for river service, disabled; Wyandank, storeship, not available; Reliance, convoy of General llookcrs supplies. Sailing vessels (mortar schooners).Racer, George Mangham, Sop kronia (guard vessel), with Eureka, at Piney Point, as tender. Under Lieutenant-Commander Samuel Jiagaw. Steamers.Anacostia, Dragon, both in the Rappahannock River; Free- born, Aquia Creek; Ella, dispatch vessel, Piney Poiiit. Sailing vessels (mortar schooners).T. A. Ward, Aquia Creek; Dan Smith, Adolph liugel (guard vessel), Alexandria, Va. Semiofficial letter from Commodore Biarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander ]Illagaw, U. S. Navy, com- manding First Division, regarding the insufficency of the force in those waters. APRIL 22, 1863. M~ DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 21st instant, with General But- terfields telegram of the 20th to you, was received this morning by the Leslie. I sent you an answer by telegram, by which you will perceive that we had already sent pretty much everything but lame ducks and mortar schooners to the Rappahannock or to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee. Teaser and Ca~ur de Lion are disabled, the latter in the fight at iN an- semond. The pull is in too many directions at once for our feeble means of supply. Nevertheless, you must take anything that can be made available and do the best you can. I send you a list with the where and what-about of the flotilla, etc. Yours, very truly, ANDW. A. HARWOOD. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Dirision Potomac Flotilla Page 261 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 261 Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Iiliagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding list of vessels. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, April 22, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note and the list of vessels of the flotilla; a copy of the letter I will send to General Hooker this morning. I told him in my telegram of yesterday that we had four vessels all told (steamers) in the flotilla, but did not name them; I meant the Freeborn, Anaco stia, Dragon, and Reliance. Yery respectfully, etc., SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARwoOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, I). C. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, enjoining caution against spies in the character of refugees. NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 21, 1863. SIR: The Department is of opinion that the interests of the public service require that persons seeking, or pretending to seek the protec. tion of the vessels of the flotilla and representing themselves as refu- gees from the insurrectionary States, should be received with great caution, as many of them are doubtless acting as spies. You will, there- fore, direct that our officers be on their guard in future as to the receiv- ing of those who apply to theni undercircumstances at all suspicious. It is not intended that this order shall apply to that class of persons known as contrabands. I am, respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington. Report of Commodore Hiarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, acknowledging Departments instructions regarding refugees. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, May 19, 1863. SIR: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of April 24 (missent) expressing an opinion that refugees from the insurrectionary States should be received with great cautioii, etc., and iu accordance therewith the necessary instructions will be given to officers to be on th eir guard for the future. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Ihe Navy Page 262 262 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK.~ Lelter from Drigadier- General Meigs, U. S. Army, to the ASecretary of the~ Nary, requesting the detention of all sutlers vessels for the Army of the Potom ae. QIJARTERMASTER-GENERAL8 OFFICE, Washington City, April 29, 18G3. SIR: The provost-marshal-general of the Army of the Potomac has telegraphed to me, requesting that all sutlers vessels for the Army of the Potoiiiac be stopped until further notice, and that no private vessels will be allowed to anchor or land betweeii Belle Plain and Aquia Creek. I have requested the Secretary of the Treasury to clear no vessels upon permits lately signed in this office, and have to request that you will instruct the flotilla not to pass sutlers vessels until frrther notice. J have the honor to be, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of Commodore Ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant- Commander ]Jliagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Dirision, to stop all trading vessels on the Potomac. APRIL 29, 1863. SIR: Instruct commanding officers of your division not to pass any sutlers vessels for the Army of the Potomac, and not to allow any 1)rivate vessel to anchor or land between Belle Plain and Aquia Creek until further orders from the Department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, MTASHIN~TON, April 30, 1863. (Received at Washington 10:45 p. in.) General Hooker requires all the available vessels suitable for the pur- pose at Aqnia Creek to convoy storeships. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw has only the Freeborn stationed in Aquia Creek for the protec- tion of the depot. McCrea has the Reliance and Ella. DrQqon and Anacoslia are at the month of the iRappahannock, tile former unsea- worthy; the rest are at Nanseinond, except those which are under repairs. Orders have been sent to the officers to do the best they can, but if lIossible, it would be well to send vessels from the Chesapeake. A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, May 1, 1863. Dispatch two of the four tugs sent from the Potomac to the mouth of the Rappahannoek. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Old Point Comfort Page 263 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 263 [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, ililay 2, 1863. The Department directed Acting Rear-Admiral Lee to dispatch two of the tugs to the mouth of the Rappahannock yesterday. When they arrive, if not required there, offer their services to General Hooker for any (luty which may be most urgent. ANDREW A. HARWOOD. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Aquia Creek. [Telegram.] AQUJA CREEK, ]VEay4, 1863. It is important to have more force at this point. If the Currituck is in condition, please send her down as soon as possible. She draws so little water that I can get her up this creek. SAMUEL iVIAGAW. Commodore HARwooD. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, May 4, 1863. It is probable that the Currituck will be ready to leave the yard Thursday morning. The & ttellite may be ready on Wednesday even- ing. The Yankee ought to be with you to-day; she left Hampton Roads yesterday. A. A. HARWOOD. Lieutenant-Commander NAGAW, Aquia Creek. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, May 5, 1863. Your telegram of April 29 directs that private vessels are not to be allowed to anchor between Belle Plain and Aquia Creek. Persons engaged in fishing still come with permits from General [John H.] Mar- tindale for wandering on Virginia shore in that region, but I do not feel anthorized to endorse such permits without further orders from you. Please inform me how to act. A. A. HARWOOD, Coa~modore. The SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] AQUJA. CREEK, May 5, 1863. I repeat the message of Mr. Fox. The Dragon is the only vessel here besides the Freeborn and Ward. I also send messages of General Williams. SAML. MAGAW. Commodore HARWOOD Page 264 264 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 5, 1863. The following has just been received: Will it not be possible for you to send any gunboats up the Rappahannock? S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Captain MAG-AW, Aquia Creek. [Telegram.] [HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,] ]Jifay 5, 18633p. m. I hear the rebels are moving a force in the direction of Port Royal [Va.]; they may have a pontoon train that way. Would it not be well to have the gunboats come up as far as they can? A. PLEASONTON, General WILLIAMS Brigadier- General. Assistant Adjutant- General. [Telegram.] AQUJA CREEK, Nay 5, 1863. I have received yours and General Pleasontons dispatch. No; steamers Freeborn and Dragon. They are considered necessary at this point. Two others, the Yankee and Primrose, are at the Pianka- tank and the month of the Rappahannock; can not leave without rais- ing blockade. I doubt if they can get up above Tobago Bay, about 5 miles below Port Royal Va.]. If you will assume the responsibility I will send everything under my command up the liappahannock. SAMUEL MAGAW. General \VILLIAMS Headquarters Army of the Potomac. [Telegram.] [HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,] May 5, 18633 p. m. Your telegram received. General Pleasontons dispatch has been transmitted to the commanding general. Pending Ills reply I do not feel at liberty to give, in his ilame, any instructions with regard to your steamers. Telegraph communication with the general has been interrupted for two or three hours, but will probably be reestablished. The unusually severe storm we are now having will doubtless postpone two or three days the execution of any design on the part of the enemy - of throwing a bridge across the river below here. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Captain MAGAW, Aquia Creek Page 265 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 265 [Telegram.] NAVY IDEPARTMENT, May 5, 1863. The four boats sent from the Potomac Flotilla to Hampton Roads have l)een ordered back. The first two left Hampton Roads with orders to report at the mouth of the Rappaharniock, and probably arrived there yesterday. The other two were ordered to go to Aquia Creek, but to touch off the Rappahannock. They ought to have been there to-day. I accinaint you with these facts so you shall have all the information to enable you to afford the utmost assistance in carrying out the wishes of Major-General Hooker, which will be given you. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary. Lieutenant-Commander MACAw, Senior Naval Officer off Aquia Creel:. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, Washington, May 6, 186311:15 a. m. Your telegram received. The storm I presume delays the Cwar de Lion and Teaser, both on their way. 1 hope to send you the Currituel: and Satellite to-morrow or at Furthest on Friday. Mr. Fox will come down on the Ella to Aquia to-day, leaving between ii and 12. HARWOOD, Commodore. Lieutenant-Commander S. MAGAW, Aquia Creel:. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report regarding the seizure of schooner Samuel First, May 6, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, May 20, 1863. SIR: I have to inform the Department of the seizure of the schooner Samuel First, on the 6th instant, by the U. S. S. Dragon, for an attempt to violate the blockade. The case has been referred, according to law, to the district court. The enclosed report of Acting Master G. E. lull, coinmanding the Dragon, will explain the reason alleged by the master of the schooner for his conduct. I have reason to believe that the rags alluded to were tents and old clothing left by the Army, which the German in Alexan- dria was about to appropriate, whether by permission of the military authorities or not, I am not informed. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servatit, ANDW. A. HARwoOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure] U. S. S. DRAGON, Aqnia Creek, May 10, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that the schooner Samuel First, detained on Tuesday last (the 6th instant), was endeavoring to i-un alongside the wharf just above Potomac Creek entrance Page 266 266 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The reasons the captaiu of her gave for running in here were that a German in Alexandria had made a bargain with him to take from the wharf (before mentioned) 5 tons of rags, at ~8 per ton, to be delivered at Philadelphia. I had him carefrily overhauled, and found nothing aboard of him. His papers were all right, from Alexandria and bound to Philadelphia (via canal). The schooner is 69 tons burden, and had a cargo of oats from Phila- delphia to Alexandria for the Quartermasters Department on her trip this way. Very respectfully, your obedient servant G.E. HILL, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SA]~IL. MAc~AW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim rose, regarding capture of schooner Sarah Lavinia. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Rappahannock River, Virginia, May 9, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that yesterday, after searching np Carters Creek for lilockade boats and goods, but not succeeding in finding any, although I am informed that goods are being carried across almost daily from Dividing and Indian creeks to the head of Carters Creek and Corrotoman River, and from thence to the south side of the Thppahannock, I then proceeded up to Corrotoman River. Not having a pilot acquainted with the channel, I took oim board a colored man who was oystering near the mouth, who knew the channel partially. After he came on board I was informed that a schooner that had run the blockade was up the river. I went up as far with the vessel as my draft of water would allow, getting aground once, but was off again in twenty minutes. I then manned my small boats and rowed up to the head of the river where I found the schooner. The crew on our approach took to the skore and made their escape, but before leaving partially erased her name from the stern. From what I can decipher and since learn, I believe the vessel to be the Sarah Lavinia, of Deals Island. There were no papers found on board or anything to indicate name or owners. The vessel is light, with the exception of seven packages of gold lace found in the cabin, they having succeeded in landing her cargo at some point unknown, and had removed everything of any value, evidently with the view of abandoning her. I shall send the prize to Washington under charge of Acting Masters Mate Jacob Hahn, who assisted in making the cal)ture. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. IlAnwoon, Commanding Washington Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla Page 267 OPERATIONS ON TUE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 267 Report of Lieutenant- Commander Ale Urea, ~7 5 Navy, commanding Second Divison Potomac Flotilla, of the capture by U. S. S. Primrose of the schooner Sarah Lavinia, and of atfairs of his command. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, Rappahannock River, May 9, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to make the following report: I communicated with Lieutenant-Commander Magaw on the 7th instant; the Dragon was at Aquia Creek. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw requested the Yankee. I arrived here this afternoon, finding at anchor the Yankee, Reliance, and Primrose, the latter with a schooner, a blockade runner about 40 tons, captured up one of the neighboring creeksCorrotoman. She had gotten nearly all her goods ashore but some gold lace and a few articles. I will send her up when opportunity occurs. The Currituck arrived at 9 p. in. this evening, which relieves the Yankee, which I have ordered to join Lieutenant-Commander Magaw. The Reliance will tow the schooner to Piney Point, where she will remain for the present. The Primrose will remain here until the Anacostia arrives, whicli will be on Thursday, when she will proceed to the Wyandank for provisions, etc. I would suggest that the paymaster of the flotilla remain on board the Wyan dank until his services can be dispensed with, as the arrival of the smaller vessels again npon the station demand of him money and small stores, and there is always trouble amid delay if lie is not present. Acting Master Street reports some paroled prisoners, sailors, on board his vessel, whose accouiits are adrift. I will attend to it when Pay- master Carpenter comes down. I have ordered the Bell to the yard for repairs, and Acting Masters Bartholomew and Plunkett and Acting Ensign Gerrard as passengers under arrest, and the commanding officer of the Bell to report in accord- amice to your orders of the 7th instant. I enclose a letter in reference to Actimmg Ensign Gerrard. I have repeatedly called the attention of the paymasters of the flotilla i-egarding the returns made to me regarding the imumber of petty officers and by whom rated, etc., but it seems they pay no attention to general orders, and think of nothing but getting up to Washington on some slight plea. I passed the Ca?ur do Lion and ordered her up to Washimmgton for repairs. I am afraid the Primrose will lmave to undergo repairs to her machinery, but will hold a survey on it at the earliest moment. The following vessels of this division occupy the respective stations: Currituck and Primrose, Station II; Anacostia, Station 0- Reliance, Station F; Eureka, at Blakistone Island, and Wyandank, in Wicomico Iliver; Sophronia, guard vessel. The Satellite will be ordered to Station II. I shall be in the Potomnac possibly to-morrow evening, either at Piney Point, or Blakistone Island. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Captain of the Fleet, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HAuwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 268 268 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Vliagaw, U. S. Nary, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding capture of schooner Samuel First and position of vessels of his command. U. S. S. YANKEE, Potbmac Flotilla, ]Jliay 11, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report the Teaser as being able to remain at her station for a while yet. I enclose the report* of Acting Master Hill, commanding the Dragon, in relation to the schooner Samuel First. I will release her after a few days unless I have your orders to send her up. The Teaser is at Kanjemoy; the Dragon gone down to coal and watch Mathias Point, where the enemy might make a demonstration upon some of our transportation coming up the river. The Freeborn has gone to Piney Point for coal, and the mortar schooners remain in the same position as my last report gives, with the exception of the Dan Smith, moved over from Mattawoman to Quantico Creek. She is in communication with the land forces at iDumfries. Your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, May 14, 1863. The order of April 29 forbidding the passage of sutlers vessels is revQked. Sutlers who have been stopped by said order will be allowed to pass. GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. RARWOOD, Secretary of the Yavy. Commandant Navy Yard, Washing/on, 1). C. Report of Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting documents regarding capture of schooners Sarah Lavinia t and Ladies Delight. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, May 18, 1863. Sin: I enclose herewith certificates of capture by a portion of the flotilla stationed at the liappahanuock, of the schooners Sarah Lavinia an(l Ladies Delight, of iBaltimore, and a large quantity of goods. The vessels were empty when captured, the goods having been landed. Acting Master Liunekin having received information that a portion of the cargo of the schooner Sarah Lavinia and a quantity of stores belonging to the rebel Government were in their warehouse at Urbana, parties from the Primrose, Currituck, Anacostia, and Satellite were handed, and succeeded in getting the goods named in the cer- tificate. See p. 265. I See also Pp. 266, 267 Page 269 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 269 Commendable zeal seems to have been shown by the commanders of the vessels named above in the capture and destruction of the enemys property. I have the honor to be with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAliwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, I? appahannoc1~ Firer, May 11, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that on the 12th instant at 4: 30 a. In., accompanied by the Primrose, I left the month of the Rappahannock River for Carters Creek to meet the Satellite, which I had sent up to the mouth of the Corrotoman River on the night of the 11th instant to intercept canoes which are frequently carrying goods across to Urbana. On my arrival there I sen boats up the main branch to look for contra- band goods. In the meantime the Satellite came in and reported nothing seen during the night. At 11 a. m. our boats returned. From parties on shore they learned that the warehouses at Urbana were filled with Government goods, and that most of the cargo of the schooner Sarah Larinia, captured in the Corrotoman on the 8th instant, was also there. We got underway immediately, and at 12:45 p. m. arrived off Urbana. On seeing rifle-pits thrown up on the west side of the entrance we came to anchor in 10 feet of water, and I s cut Acting Master Street, of the Primrose, to the east side of the entrance, with about 35 men, to recon- iioiter. He soon came back and reported that he had found a large quantity of goods, and that there were no cavalry nearer than Bowlers Rocks, 15 miles distant. I immediately had boats dispatched and com- menced bringing off goods; at 5 p. m. they were all on board. Acting Master Robinson, commanding the Satellite, being well acquainted at this place, I ordered him, after giving him some extra men, to proceed up the creek to get some bacon that was stored on the wharf for the use of the rebels, but owing to the injection pipe of the steamer getting stopped up as she came into shallow water, the engine stopped and she went ashore on the east side of the channel, which put a stop to operations for the night. On the morning of the 13th, at high water, tried to tow off the Satel- lite, but without success. At 9:30 a. m. I sent about 50 men under Acting Master Street to bring off the bacon. At 10 oclock the Ana- costia arrived and assisted us by sending in two boats; the bacon was all on board by 1:30 p. m. At 2 p. m. I dispatched the Primrose, Act- ing Master Street, with 65 extra men and boats to go 4 miles down the river and capture a lot of contraband goods, which I learned had been landed from the schooner Sarah Larinia, and stored in various houses at that point. At high water (7 p. in.), with the assistance of the Anacostia, I pulled off the Satellite, she having been lightened by removing a por- tion of her stores. At 9 p. m. the Primrose returned, and Acting Master Street reported having captured a large amount of whisky and several boxes of miscellaneous goods; lie destroyed 11 barrels of whisky, not having time to bring them off; part of the goods had been removed before his arrival. On the 14th instant, at 8 p. in., I dispatched Acting Ensign Nelson with 50 men in 5 boats to go up the creek above Urbana and bring ou Page 270 270 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND EAPPAHANNOCK. the schooner Ladies Delight, of Baltimore, which had been raised within the past two weeks, probably for the purpose of running the blockade. She was owned by a Mr. Street, a prominent secessionist and a leading citizen of Urbana. Mr. Nelson sent the schooner off in tow of three boats and proceeded up the creek with the other two and destroyed another schooner, which was scuttled. On his retnrn he was fired into by a small party, snpposed to be citizens. I am happy to say that rio one was hurt on our side. When he returned the fire they tied. Two refugees with their families came on board; also a large lot of contrabands, all of whom I shall forward to Point Lookout. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding, and Senior Officer, Station H. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. Potomac Flotilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Schooner Sarah Lavinia, of Deals Island, Maryland. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Captured by Actiiig Master William T. Street, U. S. S. Primrose. When capture made.May 8, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Corrotoman River, for violating blockade. The cargo, if any on board.No cargo. What pctpers found.No papers. 1?ernarks.T his vessel was captured after succeeding in landing her cargo at some point unknown. The crew on our approach abandoned her, taking everything available. In the cabin were found seven pack- ages of gold lace. MAY 9, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner, Sarah Lavinia, was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Primrose, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Potomac Flotilla.Certificate of capture. Name and character of theprize.Whisky, sugar, molasses, hams, etc., viz: Whisky, 57 barrels; molasses, 1 barrel; sirup, 3 barrels; sugar, 2 barrels; N. B. rum, 1 barrel; shoulders, 1 hogshead; flour, 8 bags; buckets, 23; brooms,23; shovels, 54; spades, 18; hay forks, 18; solidi- fied lye, 21 boxes; hoes, 2 boxes; coffee, 4 boxes; salts, 2 boxes; log- wood, 2 boxes; pepper, 3 boxes; candles, 2 boxes; bacon, 575 pieces. Schooner Ladies Delight. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Currituck, T. J. Linnekin; Anacostia, Acting Master Provost; Primrose, Acting Master Street; Satellite, Acting Master Robinson. When capture made.May 12, 1863; May 13, 1863; May 14, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Urbana, Va. The cargo, ~/. any on board.No cargo. What papers found.No papers Page 271 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 271 Remarks.These goods were captured on shore, having run the block- ade. They were found storedin several different houses awaiting trans- portation to Richmond. Part of these goods belonged to the so-called Confederate Government. The balance were brought iu by the schooner Sarah Lavinia, which ran the blockade, and after discharging was cap- tnred by the Primrose in Corrotoman River. This schooner had been sunk for some time, but was raised about two weeks since, and being refitted for the pnrpose of smuggling. RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER, May 14, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned articles of merchandise were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Currituck-, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEKIN, Senior Officer, Station H. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, regarding courteous relations between the Army and Navy. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON. ]Ifay 19, 1863. SIR: I forward herewith a communication from Lientenant-Coin- mander Magaw in relation to the conrtesy and kindness extended by the military authorities to the First Division of the Potomac Flotilla, under his command. Truly appreciating the importance of a cordial understanding between the two services, I take pleasure in forwarding to the Department this evi(lence of the satisfactory relation between the Army of the Potomac and the flotilla. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. YANKEE, Potomac Flotilla, May 15, 1863. SIR: I beg respectfully to call your attention to the uniform courtesy and kindness which my division of the Potomac Flotilla has received at the hands of the army officers and others, heads of their respective departments at their post. To Captain T. E. Hall, assistant quartermaster, we have often been indebted for coal, and for the use of his boats at such times as my own were either away or when I did not deem it prudent to send them from this point. The assistance thus rendered has often enabled me to keep a larger force here when I should otherwise have beeim obliged to send them for coal, a distance of 60 miles, or to use them for the purpose of visiting other stations in my division. These facilities have always been furnished us by Captain Hall when he was so situated that the public service of his own department would not suffer thereby Page 272 272 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPATIANNOcK. Lieutenant-Colonel [A. Pa.rker] Porter, commissary of subsistence at this post, has also at times supplied us ~itli boats all(l has always fur- nished us by request with fresh beef and vegetables when he could do so consistently with the wants of the Army. We have no other way of ol)taining fresh provisions, and the good health of the men is undoubtedly in a great measure owing to the fresh food which we have received from the commissaries at this point. Captain [Brownell] Granger, acting commissary of subsistence, has also beeii very attentive in conveying orders from me to the vessels in my division that lie on the route to his fleet of supplies now at Kanje- moy Creek. To Mr. W. W. Wright, the superintendent of the railroad, we are also indebted for many favors, but l)articularly for the promptness with which he has supplied us with oil, our requisitions for that article not having been filled at the yard for several months. Indeed, had it not beeu for the kindness of Mr. Wright in supplying its] with this vital [article], the steam vessels of the flotilla would have been now perfectly useless. iDrs. [Thomas] MeMillan and [Edward K.] Hogan have furnished us from time to time with medicines, of which we fouiid ourselves greatly in need. I have taken the liberty of writing the above t~ you, know- ing that you appreciate any favors done to the vessels of your command, and particularly when the services rendered were of such magnitude, involving, as it did at times, the very moving of the vessels. I respectfully suggest that some acknowledgment be made to the above-mentioned gentlemen either by yourself or the I)epartment. Everything that we have ever asked for has been done with cheerful- ness and with a remarkable promptitude. 1 have the honor to be, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. ilAuwoon, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Letter from Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant- Commander ]Iiiagaw, U. 8. Nary, commanding First Dicision, extending thanks for courtesies received from the Army. JuNE 8, 1863. SIR: Your letter of the 15th of May, referring to the courtesies received by your division of the Potomac Flotilla at the hands of cer- tain officers of the Army of the Potomac, whom you name, was duly received and a copy of it sent to the Navy Department. On the 4th instant I received the enclosed letter from the Secretary of the Navy, by which you will perceive the War Department has been made aware that yourself and officers wish to show their appreciation of time attentions they have received from the Army. You will please give to the military officers named in your letter my warm thanks for their courtesy to those under my command, and my assura~tce that it will afford inc great pleasure to reciprocate in every way iii my power their good feeling. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A~ HARWOOD, Commodore, Corn manding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Potomac Flotilla Page 273 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 273 Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting papers regarding the capture of ~ schooner Mignonette, May 19, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington., May 25, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith the certificate of capture by the guard vessel at Piney Point of the sutler schooner Mignonette, for having on board of her articles not contained in her manifest co contained in her permit. ntrary to the stipulation The Jllignonette arrived at the yard this morning in tow of the Reli- ance, and her papers have been forwarded to the district attorney. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, May 23, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to forward per U. S. S. Ella the sutlers schooner Mignonette, she having forfeited her cargo by attempting to smuggle liquor. Enclosed is her special permit. The preparation was marked Lediards Army Toiiic; or, Soldiers Friend, but really whisky cocktail. The Satellite arrived last evening, bringing a prize schooner captured in the iRappahannock. I forward the reports* of Acting Master Linne- kin and Acting Master Robinson of the particulars. The Wyandank has returned with the lumber, and I think has brought a sufficiency for the purposes intended. She has returned to the station in Wicomico River. The Anacostia, Currituck and Satel. lite are on Station H; Reliance, Stations F and G Eureka,Station E; Sophronia, guard vessel at Piney Point. Jacob Bell and Primrose have not yet returned from navy yard. Cceur de Lion returned this evening. Primrose has just reported. Acting Master Morris, commanding Ccrur de Lion, reports that At 9:40 a. in., May 23, saw schooner Caroline Anderson on fire; proceeded to her and rendered assistance; saved Captain Doughty and crew; also mainsail, some rigging, and stores; then hanled off and fired sixteen shot into her to scnttle her. I deliv- ered the goods to the tug Fisher; also the captain and crew. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Captain ~f the Fleet, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOOn, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Potomac FlotillaCertift cafe of capture. Name and character of the prize..Schoouer Mignonette. By whom and by what vessel capture made.W. ii. Rude, commanding U. S. mortar schooner Sop hronia. When capture made.May 19, 1863. * See pp. 275, 276. N W RYOL 51 Page 274 274 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC ANI) RAPPAHANNOCK. Where and for what reasons.At Piiiey Point, for having on board two boxes containing, as per label on bottles, Lediards Army Tonic, but is really intoxicating drink and not entered on manifest. The cargo, if any on board. Sutlers supplies. What papers found.The vessels clearance, manifest, permits, and bills of lading. J3emarks.Said vessel was seized for violating the laws of the U. S. Government, having aboard two boxes containing intoxicating drinks and not specified oii manifest. MAY 19, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner Mignonette, of Baltimore, Md., was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. mortar schooner Sophronia, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. W. IR. RUDE, Acting Ensign, Commanding. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting papers regarding capture of schooner Emily, May 21, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, May 25, 1863. SIR: The Ella arrived this morning with the schooner Emily, loaded with miscellaneous cargo, a certificate of capture of which is herewith enclosed. She was taken by the Currituck, Anacostia, and Satellite on the 21st instant, 10 miles above Urbana, on the iRappahannock. On the approach of our vessels the Emily was set fire to and aban- doned by her crew, who succeeded in escaping to the shore. The fire was extinguished with very little damage to the vessel, and at the time it had just reached the cargo. No papers were found on board, but by the remarks on the log slate and the charts found on board, it is ascertained that she came from New York and was probably commanded by John Sanford. A copy of the log slate is herewith enclosed. Acting Master Linnekin in his report mentions that the day previous to the capture our cavalry had been about a mile above Monaskon wharf and burned a large quantity of goods. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. IIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of the rize.Schooner Emily, of New York. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Currituck, Acting Master Linnekin Anacostia, Acting Master Provost; Satellite, Acting Master Robin son. When capture made.May 21, 1863 Page 275 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 275 Where and for what reasons.Off Punch Bowl Point, IRappahannock River, for running the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.Miscellaneous. What papers found.Log slate and memorandum book. RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER, Miay 21, 18G3. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner, Emily, was cap- tured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Gurrituck, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEKIN, Senior Officer, Station H. lfemorandnnL from log 8late of 8chooner Emily. Monday, May 18.This day begins light winds and clear weather. At 6 oclock weighed anchor and proceeded to sea; at 9:30 passed Sandy Hook; at 4 oclock Barnegat light bore W., distant3iniles; at 8, Absecon bore W., distant 5 miles. This day ends moderate winds and clear. Tuesday, May 19.This day begins moderate and clear. At 4 p. in., Cape Henlopen light W. N. W.; at 8 oclock, Fenwicks Island light (Md.) bore N. W., distant 8 miles; at 1 a. in., Chincoteague bore N. WT., distant 6 miles. N. B.The name of Captain John Sanford was found on one of the new charts. Report 0/ Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Gurrituck, regarding the capture of schooner Emily. U. S. S. CURRITUGK, OtT Windmill Point, May 21, 1863. SIR: I respectfully report that I left here this morning at 4 oclock, accompanied by the Anacostia and Satellite, for Monaskon wharf, 9 miles above Urbana,to capture a lot of goods that I learned were at that place. At 6 oclock, just above Urbana, I saw a schooner up the river. I sent the Satellite ahead, she being the fastest vessel and hav- ing a good pilot. At 6:20 I discovered the schooner to be on fire, and her boat leaving her, with about ten men, who landed on the south side of the river and made their escape. The Satellite stopped and fired her after gun, but the shot fell short; I signalized her to go ahead and extinguish the fire. At 7:15 the.Satellitc came up to and boarded her off Punch Bowl Point,10 miles above Urbana,followed closely by this vessel and the Anacostia. She proved to be th~ schooner Emily, of and from New York, loaded with a miscellaneous cargo. She was a little damaged in the main hatch where they had set her on fire, the deck being burned through, and some of the boxes charred before we could extinguish it. I ordered the Satellite to take her in tow and proceed to Monaskon wharf where we came to anchor at 9 a. m Page 276 276 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. We landed and learned that our cavalry had been here the day pre- vious, and burned a large lot of goods about a mile above here. Find- ing nothing I immediately got underway and proceeded to this anchorage (mouth of the iRappahannock). I beg leave to state that I planned this expedition yesterday, and therefore (contrary to my usual practice) ordered all the vessels to lie together at this point during the night, in order to start at the earliest possible moment this morning. The omission to station a vessel near Stingray Point, on the south side of the Rappahannock, enabled this schooner to pass us in the night, but her escape was prevented by our early start this morning. 1 send the prize in charge of Acting Ensign Sommers, of the U. S. S. Satellite. I herewith enclose a copy of the log slate found in the schooners cabin. The log slate, a chart of Chesapeake Bay, and a memorandum book, snpposed to contain a partial list of cargo, I forward by the officer in charge. I would recommend the goods to be taken out as soon as possible, as some of them are quite wet from the water used in extinguishing the fire. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, T. ~-. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding, and Senior Officer, Station II. Lieutenant-Commander E. P. 1VIcCREA, Corn dg. Second Division ~Potomac Flotilla, IVashington, D. C. Report of Acting 3iiaster Robin8on, U. S. ATavy, commanding U. S. S. Satellite, regarding the capture of schooner Emily. U. S. S. SATELLITE, Rajppahannock River, May 22, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report the capture of the schooner Emily, of New York, heavily loaded, on the morning of the 21st at 7:30 a. m. At 4 a. m. Currituck, Anacostia, and Satellite got underway and pro- ceeded up the river. I signalized to the senior officer to let me go ahead, and was ordered to do so. When I arrived abreast of Urbana I dis- covered a vessel ahead, distant 8 miles. I then signalized to the seiiior officer that I saw a vessel ahead. I ordered all steam on, and gave chase. Coming within 4 miles of the above-named schooner, I dis- covered that they had set her on fire and the crew were leaving for shore. I fired a solid shot at them, but [it] fell short, steamed up and was soon alongside of the burning vessel, and with buckets and force pump soon put out the fire. No papers found on board, save two charts bearing the name Captain John Sanford; also a memorandum book, containing a list of goods on board. I here name the vessels claiming a share of the prizeU. S. steamers Curritack, Anacostia, and Satellite. Very respectfully, JNO. F. D. IROEINsoN, Acting Master, Commanding. E. P. MCCREA, Lieutenant- Commander and Captain of the Fleet Page 277 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPATIANNOCK. ~77 Report of Acting ]Ifaster Robinson, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. SateUite, of the capture of the schooners Arctic and Sarah, May 28, 1863. U. S. S. SATELLITE, Great ilieocomico Wicomico?] River, May 28, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the capture of thQ schooners Arctic and Sarah, up the eastern branch of the river. I had them stripped of their sails and set the Arctic on fire. Yours, vcry respectfully, and obedient servant, JNO. F. D. ROBTN8ON, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. ilARwOoP, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure.] Potomac Plotilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prizc.Schooners Sarah and Arctic. By whom and by what vessel capture made.IL S. S. Satellite , Acting Master J. F. D. Robinson. When capture made.May 28. Where and for what reasons.Great Yeocomico [Wicomico 0?] River; owned by rebels and found in blockaded waters. The cargo, ~ any on board.None. What papers ]bund.No papers. Rem arks.The Arctic and Sarah were found in blockaded waters and destroyed. I had them stripped of their sails, 2mainsails, 2 foresails, 1 jib, and stored at navy yard. MAY 28, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooners [Sarah and Arctic] were captured by the undersigned, commanding U.S. S. Satellite, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. JOHN F. D. ROBINSON. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, regarding expedition to Tappahannock for the destruction of Con- federate stores. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station IT, J3appahannock River, Va., May 30, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that at 3:20 a. m. I got underway at Lawsons Bay, in company with the steamers Currituck, Anacostia, and Satellite, to make an expedition to Tappahannock, where we arrived at 8:15 a. m. without being molested. A few cavalry were seen below Fort Lowry. The fort remains without aiiy apparent alteration, On our approach to Tappahannock a small sloop was seen standing up the river, when I was ordered by you to give chase, firing several shots at long range, but before I could reach her she succeeded in entering a creek about 2 miles above the town and made her escape. Ithereforereturnedtothesteamerso~thetown, asldid not deem it prudent to enter the creek with my small force By your order I went on shore, accompanied by boats from all the vessels. We landed safely, and on entering the town learned that Page 278 278 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. company of cavalry were stationed here, but on our landing had fallen back to a church in the rear of the town that was used as their head- qnarters. While sending off to the vessels for more men Mr. Woods, masters mate of this vessel,~hoisted an ensign on one of the most prom- inent buildings. On the arrival of the men we advanced, and after exchanging a fexx~ shots the rebels retreated to a small ravine about a mile back of the town, where they remained during the time we were on shore. In the church was found several cavalry swords, a rifle, saddle, etc., that in their haste they did not take away. Some of the principal houses were searched for arms, but none were found. In a storehouse was found a quantity of bacon and corn; this was destroyed. In a large barn on the right of the town was found stored about 20,000 bushels of grain belonging to the Confederates. This in the afternoon I assisted in burning. As there was nothing further to be accomplished, I returned to the vessel. At intervals during the day we fired back of the town to prevemit the approach of the cavalry. From what I could learn while on shore there i~ no large force this side of Port Royal, nor do I think that there is any battery or artillery, and believe that the river is clear for the passage of our gunboats to that point. I would also beg leave to mention Acting Assistant Surgeon Henry Johnson, of your vessel, who accompanied me on shore. I found him in this, as in several other expeditions, a most energetic and efficient officer, rendering assistance wherever he could be most useful. I am, sir, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, Wiw. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Acting Master T. J. LINNEKIN, Commanding Steamer Currituck, and Senior Officer Present. Report of Acting Master Linnekin, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Currituck-, regarding expedition to Tappahannock. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Aquia Creek, June 15, 1863. SIR: I beg leave to make the followiug statement in regard to depre- dations alleged to have been committed by the gunboats at Tappahan- nock, May 30: The houses were searched by the officers for arms and armed men that they had learned were secreted in them, the men not being allowed to enter the houses, and to the best of my knowledge the search was made in a proper manner. No furniture was destroyed or taken from private houses. A small quantity of bedding, etc., was brought down to the beach by some of the men, but was restored by Acting Master Provost, who was in conimand of the party, to a negro woman who claimed it. In regard to shelling the town, my report* states that 1 threw a few shells into a ravine to the right of the village after the pickets had fired on my men. No shells were throwmi into the town. ~Not found Page 279 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 279 I would also state that I have given strict and repeated orders to officers and men not to take private property or molest inoffensive citi- zens, and have warned them that disobedience of these orders would be punished to the extent of the law. I have never given orders to men nuder my conimand to retaliate upon unarmed citizens for the firing of pickets, nor have they done so with or without my orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. ~ LINNEK~N, Acting Master, ~ Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Senior Officer, Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Morris, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. S. Owur de Lion, requesting instructions regarding the disposition of wheat and corn. 11. S. S. CEUR PE Piney Point, May 30, 18G3. SIn: While lying at anchor off Piney Point a man named Snyder, a Union resident of Lynchs Point, Va., came on board and informed inc that he had been threatened by the residents of that place for his Union sentiments, and had accordingly left his home for safety within our lines. He also informed me that the rebel authorities intended to seize his wheat, which he desired me to take to prevent it from falling into the hands of the enemy. Accordingly I got underway and pro- ceeded over to his residence, and succeeded in taking 100 bushels of wheat. I was also informed that a secessionist named Griffiths had been supplying the enemy with provisions. I landed at his farm and was informed by the overseer of the plantation that I had been informed correctly. I took off 30 bags of corn. Night coming on, and the corn not being a very good quality, I returned to my anchorage at Piney Point to inform you of the fact and await your orders as to the remain- der. There are about 400 bushels of corn still remaining on the plan- tation. I have stored the wheat and corn, and turned over Mr. Snyder to the military authorities at Piney Point, as lie landed there before coming on board. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. 0-. MoRRIs, Acting Master, Cont ?nanding U. S. S. C.ieur de Lion. Commodore A. A. HARWOOP, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla and Nary Yard, Washington, D. C. Order of Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla,to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives, U. S. Navy, to relieve Lieu- tenant-Commander MicCrea as fleet captain of Potomac Flotilla. MAY 30, 1863. SIR: You are hereby directed to relieve Lieutenant-Commander McCrea as fleet captain. He will deliver to you such papers and mem- oranda as may be necessary to make you aware of any unfinished duties which will devolve upon you Page 280 280 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. A copy of a letter* to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, defining the position of adjutant fleet captain, is herewith enclosed. You will retain command of the Yankee, making use of the Ella as a medium of communication with me when necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilAnwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant T. POYNTON IVES, Fleet Captain, Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Nary, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, regarding the capture of four men engaged in blockade running. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station 1I~ Rappahannock River, Virginia, June 1, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that yesterday, while Masters Mate Jacob Hahn was on shore at Lawsons Bay, he obtained information that four men (blockade runners) were at the house of Mr. John Carroll, waiting an opportunity to go North. I reported the circumstance to Captain Ives, on board the steamer Ella, and also to Acting Master Linnekin, of the steamer Currituck, who gave me permission to land at night and make the capture. I started at 12 oclock last night with the cutter, taking with me Jacob Hahn, accompanied by the first cutter from the Currituck, under the charge of Acting Ensign Thomas Nelson, Acting Assistant Surgeon TI. Johnson, and Masters Mate Joseph A. Havens. Shortly after land- ing I obtained a negro as a guide, who knew where Mr. Carroll lived. After walking about 4 miles we came to the house, which we surrounded. On searching the house we found four men secreted under the beddin i~amed, respectively, John H. looper, John Harris, William Jones, and Robert Adams. On further search we found two Confederate flags, together with some dress patterns and remnants of calico sewed up iu abed. There were also small quantities of thread, buttons, lace, etc., found, but being of no great moment we did not take them, but it proved con- elusively that the place had been the headquarters of blockade runners. We also obtained.$1O,635 in notes and bonds belonging to the prispu- ors, which I have turned over to Captain Linnekin, together with the prisoners. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Acting ]Jiaster, Commanding. Acting Master T. J. LINNEKIN, Commanding Steamer Currituck. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Miagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, recommending certain officers of his com- mand. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. ELLA, June 2, 1863. DEAR SIR: The accompanying reports t will show you the doings of the flotilla iii the Rappahannock. Acting Master Street is worthy of a Not found. t See preceding report Page 281 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 281 better coinand than the Primrose, and I hope he may have the best one of the new vessels that, I am told, have been purchased for the flotilla. Acting Ensign Jackson, of the Anacostia, I would recommend for the Primrose, if Mr. Street is transferred. I feel it my duty to say that Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives fills his position as chief of ataff admirably. There are one or two little expeditions I have in view, in which we can harass the enemy, of which I will consult you personally. In case Lieutenant-Commander Irwin takes charge of the Second Division, I would like to have Acting Master Schulze (now in charge of the Jacob Bell) detached and ordered to the Freeborn as my executive officer. I beg you will ask the honorable Secretary if it is possible to grant honorable discharges to men of less term of service than three years. Several of the best men in the flotilla are two and one years men, and their times expire between this and August. Respectfully and faithfully, your servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. llARwooD, Commanding, etc. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Iilagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding transfer of Colonel Kilpatricks command across Rappahannock River. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, June 2, 1863. SIR: I have respectfully to report that, in accordance with the request of Major-General Hooker, of ~vhich I handed you a copy, I l)roceeded to Urbana, on the Itappahannock, and at 8 oclock on Mon- day, the 1st of June, the time specified by General Hooker, I had the following vessels in a commanding position, viz, Freeborn, Yankee, Currituck, Anacostia, Jacob Bell, Primrose, and Satellite, leaving the C~xur de Lion to blockade. The transportation for the cavalry arrived soon after, and at about 11:30 a. m. the embarkation of the troops commenced. I sent the Jacob Bell with the transpoits to cover the landing, which was made on the east side of the Itappahannock at Carters wharf. At 9 oclock this morning the last troops embarked and were safely landed. The raid seems to have been so far a perfect success. Not a man has been lost. There was no attack by the enemy during the embarka- tion, and I think that their reason for not molesting Colonel Kilpatrick was that they did not like to encounter our fire, which would probably have been very destructive. I think you have every reason to be satisfied with the conduct of the officers whose reports I enclose, respecting several expeditions that have been organized and carried out in this vicinity. The vessels have now resumed their stations, and I herewith enclose a weekly report (for the coming week) as to the stations that I expect will be occupied by the vessels of both divisions of the Potomac Flotilla. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Commodore A. A. HARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 282 282 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Enclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Falmouth, Va., May 28, 1833. J am directed by the major-general commanding to inform you that Colonel Kilpatrick, commanding cavalry brigade now at Gloucester, has been ordered to have his force at Urbana to cross the iRappahan- nock on Monday morning next, June 1. The following extract from his instructions is furnished for your information: * * * * * * * Ferryboats for crossing, gunboats and a small force of infantry to cover your embarkation, will be at Urbana in waiting for you Monday morning, June 1, at 8 a. in., and await your arrival. Should any unforeseen occurrence prevent your arrival at Urbana at the time sl)ecified, the boats will await your arrival there. * * * * * * Colonel Kilpatricks command consists of about 800 dragoons. The general commanding desires that you will have your gunboats iii position to cover the crossing and cooperate fully with Colonel Kil. patrick in effecting it. Three ferryboats, with a small force of infantry ordered from Aquia, will be sent down (to accompany your flotilla) for the purpose of assisting in the crossing of Kilpatricks command. The general desires that after the troops have crossed, you will convoy these boats back to Aquia. The general desires that your gunboats shall be in position at the time specified, and that every appliance and assistance in your power necessary for the purposes may be prepared and made available. Captain Custer, of the U. S. cavalry, reports to the general that there is a good wharf at Urbana, and a good beach with 3 feet of water, gravel bottom, at a suitable point opposite, for landing the force on this side. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, DANE. BUTTERFIELD, Major. General and Chief of Staff. Lieutenant-Commander MAGAW, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. LieatenantColonel [Joseph] Dickinson, of the staff, will accompany the expedition. Certificate of capture of the sloop Flying Cloud, June 2, 1863. Potomac Plotilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Flying Cloud, sloop, of Baltimore, Md. By whom and by what vessel capture made.N. Provost, acting master, commanding U. S. S. Anacostia, and William T. Street, acting master, commanding U. S. S. Primrose. When capture made.June 2, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Tabbs [Tapps] Creek, having run in with goods and afterwards sunk. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.Non e. Remarks.The parties concerned have been taken previously near White Stone, Va Page 283 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 283 U. S. S. Anacostia, June 2, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned sloop, Flying Cloud, of Baltimore, Md., was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. steamers Anacostia and Primrose, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is / true iii every particular. NELSON PnOYOST, Acting Master, Commanding. Report of Acting Master Babcock, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner I. A. Ward, regarding capture of four Conftderates. U. S. SCHOONER T. A. WARD, Off Wicomico River, Md., Jane 3, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report the capture of the following-named persons while attempting to run the blockade of this river on the night of the 2d of June: Lieutenant M. E. McKnew, First Maryland Cavalry (rebel). G. M. Serpell, First Maryland Cavalry (rebel). A. II. Wells, of Prince Georges City [County l), Md. A. Nettleton, of Richmond, Va. I respectfully state that I have taken the following amount of money from the above-named prisoners: M. E. McKuew, Confederate States notes $251 G. M. Serpell, Confederate States notes 82 United States notes 255 A. Nettleton, United States notes 27 Total amount taken 615 The only cargo found in the boat was two small valises containing dry goods. The boat that the prisoners were captured in was a small, leaky skiff; ~nd would be of no valne. I have broken her up. Enclosed please find the money taken from prisoners, in three sepa- rate packages, marked with the name of the person taken from. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. BAECOCK, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MACAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. General report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Poto- mac Flotilla, regarding operations of vessels of his command. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, June 4, 1863. Sin: The following are the recent operations of the Potomac Flotilla: On the 30th ultimo, the steamers Currituck, Primrose, and Satellite proceeded to the town of Tappahannock, Va., had a skirmish with the enemys cavalry (in which the latter retreated and no one was hurt), and destroyed a quantity of rebel stores, consisting of bacon and wheat, supposed to amonnt to about 20,000 [bushels] Page 284 284 OPEHATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. On the same day Acting Master Morris, at the request of a man named Snyder, a Union resident of Lynchs Point, Va., sent and brought away Mr. Snyder, and a supply of wheat and corn, to prevent it from falling into the hands of the enemy. The grain has been stored at Piney Point, and Mr. Snyder turned over to the military authorities. On the 1st instant, at midnight, the boats of the Gurritucle landed a party, and proceeding to the house of John Carroll, a notorious dealei~ in contraband goods, who lives about 4 miles from Lawsons Bay, Rappa- hannock [River], bronght away four prisoners, a package of letters, and $10,455 in money and bonds. The prisoners, as appears fr0m inter- cepted correspondence, were on their way to Maryland. They were con- cealed nuder the bedding, and on one of them was found a memorandum of his expenses from Richmond and a list of goods he was to purchase in Baltimore. The Ella returned yesterday with Lieutenant-Commander Samuel Magaw and Acting Volunteer Lieutenant T. Poynton Ives, from the Rappahannock River. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw reports that, in accordance with the request of General Hooker, communicated to me on Friday last, the Freeborn, Yankee, Gurrituck, Anacostia, Jacob Bell, Primrose, and Satellite all proceeded to Urbana, on the Rappahannock, in order to cover the crossing of Colonel Kilpatricks cavalry, which were on their way from Gloucester. Soon after Lieutenant-Commander Magaw~s arrival the transportation for the cavalry came and they were embarked and safely landed at Carters wharf, on the east side of the Rappahan- nock, the last of them at 9 a. m. on the 2d instant. The raid, so well planned, appears to have been a perfect success; the cavalry brought away with them a large number of horses. That there was no attack upon Colonel iKilpatricks party by the enemy during the embarkation and crossing I think may be fairly attributed to the presence of the gunboats, which covered the party. I enclose the certificate of capture of the persons and money. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Potomac Plotilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Prisoners, John H. looper, John Harris, William Jones, Robert Adams. Ten thousand four hundred and fifty-five dollars were found belonging to the prisoners in bank notes and Pacific railroad bonds. By whom and by what vessel capture made.William T. Street, acting master, commanding U. S. S. Primrose, and a boats crew from the U. S. S. Currituck. When capture made.June 1, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Fonr miles back of Lawsons Bay, Vir- ginia. For being engaged in running the blockade. The cargo, ~ any on board.[None.] What papers found.[None.] Rem arks.The prisoners were captured at the house of Mr. John Carroll, 4 miles from Lawsons Bay, Virginia, for being engaged in run- ning the blockade. The money they tried to hide, but did not succeed Page 285 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 285 On the person of John II. looper were fonnd a memorandum of goods to be purchased in Baltimore and his expenses from iRichmond, which are herewith enclosed. JUNE 1, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prisoners and money were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Primrose, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Report of Acting Master Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Owur do Lion, of the burning qf the schooners Odd Fellow and Sarah lliliar- garet, while in search of blockade runner in Coan River. U. S. S. CEUR DE LION, Piney Point, June 11, 1863. SIR: Last evening I wa~ informed by a captain of a schooner that a sloop had run into Coan River to land a contraband cargo. No vessel being in the harbor except the storeship Wyandank, I reported the fact to Captain Frank and immediately got underway to proceed after her. I arrived at the month of the river at 10 p. in.; the night being dark and conld not discern anything, I came to anchor. At 3 a. in., sent two boats in quest of the sloop. One of the boats burned two schoon- ers, named the Odd Fellow and Sarah Margaret, both of Yeocomico; also obtained intelligence of the capture of the sloop by the revenue cutter flercules. - Previons to my arrival, four contrabands belonging to a rebel named [J. T. 0?] Travis, came alongside and desired to be taken oft. I accordingly received theni on board and delivered them to Lieutenant-Colonel Massey at Piney Point. Very respectfully, ~. G. MORRIS, Acting Master, Commanding, etc. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant T. P. IvES, Captain of the Fleet. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 13, 1863. Send the Mahaska immediately to Aquia Creek to guard that depot. Let Captain Creighton communicate with the military forces, and, if necessary, have other gunboats at that position. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Yavy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 13, 1863. At what hour did the Mahaska leave in obedience to my order of this date 0? GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Commandant Navy Yard Page 286 286 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, June 13, 1863. (Received 3:40 p. in.) The Mahaska left the yard at 3: 15 p. in. A. A. HARWOOD. SECRETARY OF NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 14, 186312 in. The Quartermaster-General suggests that the naval officer in coin- inand at Aquia use his influence to prevent the destruction of the wharves, brid~cs, etc., at Aquia Creek. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Commodore HARWOOB. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, June 14, 186310:14 a. in. Use your influence to prevent the destruction of the wharves, bridges, etc., at Aquia Creek. A. A. HARWOOD. Commander CREIGHTON. [Telegram.] AQUJA CREEK, June 14, l86311:3Ojp.rn. Dispatch to Captain Creighton is here. He says that all is right. SAML. MAGAW. Commodore HARWOOD. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 14, 1863. Send the Commodore Barney to Aquia Creek as early as practicable. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary. Commodore IDORNIN, Commandant Naval Station, Baltimore. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, fpr the organization of field batteries. NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 15, 1863. SIR: You will organize immediately two batteries of- field howitzers, four guns each, to be kept in complete and constant readiness day and night until further orders. You are authorized to call upon the Bureau of Ordnance for the guns, ammunition, and such men as can be spared from the officer Page 287 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 287 and employ& ~s of the ordnance yard, the remainder of the men to be detailed from the most effective workmen of the navy yard. The men of these two batteries are to be drilled, and the guns, etc., inspected in the morning and evening of each day at such times as may be most convenient. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, & eretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Report of Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding disposition of the vessels of his command. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, June 17, 18G3. SIR: The Ella arrived this morning, and Acting Volunteer Lieuten- ant Ives brings the following information from Aqnia Creek: There were but 600 Federal troops left at the place. About midnight last [night] all the movable property had been safely shipped for transportation. Nothing of consequence but some timber remained, and it was hoped that this might be got away. The vessels of the flotilla are disposed of as follows: At Aquia Greek.The ]lliahaska outside the bar, about 1,300 yards from the wharf; Freeborn, Currituck, in the creek above the wharf; Yankee, Dragon, below the wharf; Resolute, cruising on the river, watch- ing particularly Mathias Point. At the mouth of the Rappahannock.Anacostia, Satellite. At Piney Point.Sophronia, Czeur de Lion. The other mortar vessels and the store vessel are at their ordinary stations. As soon as vessels can be spared from Aqnia Creek, or sent from this yard, where their repairs are being pushed, a larger force will be sent to the Ilappahannock and its neighborhood to look out for the contrabandists. I have the honor to be, with great respect, yonr obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, regarding expedition to Stratford Mills, Va., in search of contra- bandists. U. S. S. PRIMROSE. Station B, Potomac Flotilla, June 18, 1863. SIR: I would respectfully report that yesterday I made an expedi. tion to Stratford Mills, Va., for the purpose of searching for goods that I learned had been landed a few days previous. I landed with an armed boats crew, consisting of eight men and two officers. Afte Page 288 288 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. walking about 4 miles we came to the house of Mr. Schohardt, where tl)e blockade runners were reported to be stopping. Coming suddenly upon the house, we succeeded in taking Morris Smith, who, on seeing us approach, attempted to escape. On search- lug the house we found a few articles of blockade goods, but as they were of no great value did not take them. In the house we found a compass belonging to Mr. Polk, a former extensive blockade runner, but now in Richmond. I learned that three men had left with goods for Richmond. Mr. Smith ii believe to be one of the party, and had only been at the house a couple of days. Mr. Schohardt I also arrested, but finding that it would be of no benefit to the Goverment to detain him, sent him on shore again. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. LieutenantCommander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo. tilla, regarding captures. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, June 19, 1863. SIR: The Ella arrived this morning from Aqula Creek, bringing up six stragglers, one smuggler, and a person describing himself to be a peddler. All the parties were sent to the provost-marshal of the district. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Biarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report regarding seizure of sloop yacht Richard Vaux and destruction of the buildings at Aquia Creek, Virginia, by the Con- federates. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, June 23, 1863. SIR: I herewith enclose copy of a report made by Acting Volunteer Lieutenant T. P. Ives of the seizure of the stoop yacht Richard Vaux by the U. S. S. Primrose. The sloop is now at this yard. The refugees and persons claiming to be stragglers have been turned over to the provost-marshal of the district. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotil~la. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 289 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 289 [Enclosures.] U. S. S. ELLA, June 23, 1863. SIR: We have brought up the sloop yacht Richard Vaux, taken at Blakistone Island by the Primrose, as she ~vas not furnished with the lroper naval pass from the guard vessel at Alexandria. She is painted lead color, would make a valuable blockade runner, and was brought here to sell, so some of the men on board say. I think the circumstances 5115p1 cions. We have, also brought up refugees and persons claiming to be strag- glers from our Army. Last evening at a quarter past 8 oclock the buildings recently ocen- l)ied by our forces at Aquia Creek were discovered to be on fire. In about an hour they were totally destroyed, together with the greater l)art of the wharf, the outer end of which, however, does not appear to be badly damaged. I was on board the ]Iiliahaska at the time, but was unable to see any enemy on shore, although some of the officers of that vessel thought they could see three or four men. The Maliaska fired a few shots, as did also the Resolute and the mortar schooner. Time destruction was very complete. All the buildings are burned except one or two small ones that are situated nearly a mile back from the end of the wharf The buildings aimd wharves at Yubadam and at Windmill Point have not as yet beemi destroyed by the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THOMAS POYNTON IVES, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant and Fleet Captain. Commodore ANDW. A. HAnxvoon, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character ofprize.Sloop yacht Richard Vaux. Names of crew found on board: John Redman, Charles McCarty, Samuel Wins- low, Charles MeKarnan, John Guyer. By whom and by what ressel capture made.Charles Stewart, masters mate, U. S. S. Primrose. When capture made.June 20, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Off Blakistone Island, Potomac River. Having no pass; papers not correct; no captain on board, and for violating the coastwise law. The cargo, tf any on board.Old iron and rags. What papers found.Enrollment license, manifest, and clearance from Philadelphia; manifest from Alexandria. Remarks .T his vessel was loaded on the 15th instant, bound up the miver, but having a pass from the guard vessel and being in ballast was allowed to proceed. Was loaded on her passage down, and foumid that site had no pass, no clearance, and had stopl)ed at several points on the river to trade. SATURDAY, June 20, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned vessel and crew were cap- tured by the undersigned, comumamiding the U. S. S. Primrose, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the tiwe and place designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. WM. T. STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. N W RVOL L 1 Page 290 290 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 25, 1863. Send one of your small gunboats round to Havre de Grace to pro- tect the ferryboat and other property there. GIDEON WELLES, AS~ecretary of the Navy. Commodore HARWOOD. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, June 25, 186311:15 a. m. The order for the protection of the ferry at Havre de Grace will be dispatched immediately. ANDREW A. HARWOOD. lou. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, 9/ the arrival of schooner Henry Wolcott, in tow of U. AS. S. Satellite. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Thrd, Washington, June 26, 1863. SIR: J have to report for the information of the Department the arrival at this yard to-day of the schooner Henry Wolcott, in tow of the U. S. S. Satellite, Acting Master ilobinson, who reports that she was run down by a steamer on the night of 22d instant, and that she was found abandoned by the Satellite, on her way from the IRappahan- nock to Piney Point. By the log book, this vessel appears to have been bound from New York to Matamoras, whether in legitimate trade or not remains to be proved. Her deck load, which is all that can be examined at l)resent, seems to consist of army wagons. Her log book, papers, etc., have been sent to the prize commissioners. I have the honor to be, with great respect, yonr obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Master Hill, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Dragon, of the capture of supposed Confederate spies. U. S. S. DRAGON, Station C, Potomac Flotilla, June 27, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that this afternoon I captured a small canoe, with two men, calling themselves Charles Douglas and Joseph Parsons, attempting to cross the river from the Virginia to the Maryland shore, just below Maryland Point. There were 110 papers found on them, although they confessed to having torn up two letters Page 291 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 291 I suspect these men are Confederate soldiers or spies, and I have treated them accordingly. The canoe was worthless and had nothing in it; I had it broken up. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. E. IIILL, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. HARWoOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Phinney, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Racer, regarding the capture of blockade runners. U. S. MORTAR SCHOONER RACER, Station D, Potomac Flotilla, June 28, 1863. SIR: I send up two white mcii, giving their names as George Burnett and Alfred Hardingliam, and a negro named William Frazer, who were captured while crossing from Virginia to Maryland about 11 oclock last night by Acting Masters Mate B. B. Corey and a boats crew from this vessel. Burnett says. he was going North to transact some business, intending to return to Richmond, where he has a family. Hardingliam has British papers and claims to be a refugee, but the contraband says lie (Hardingham) had a square package, done up in oilcloth, which he threw overboard as soon as he found they were to be caught. I think it was a mail. No papers of any consequence were found on them, and they had but a small sum of money each, which was returned to them. The boat was worthless and was destroyed. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, ALVIN PHINNEY, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. IIARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Washington Navy Yard. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding capture of blockade runners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMJiNDANT5 OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, June 29, 1863. SIR: The lllahaska arrived here yesterday p. m. On her passage up the river she picked up a boat crossing from the Yirgiiiia to the Mary- land shore, 5 miles below Aquia Creek, containing the following per- soiis: Samuel Dent, William Flowers, P. Harrison. They stated that they were farmers, living at Wellington farms, Charles County, Md. They have been committed to the custody of the provost-marshal of the district. Ihavethehonorto be,with great respect, yourobedientservant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 292 292 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 27, 18637:30. Admiral Lee will send up two gunboats to Washington and one to Annapolis. When they arrive, send two of your smallest boats into the Gunpowder River and one into the Bush River, to communicate with the military authorities there and assist in guarding the bridges. The two tug gunboats will leave New York Wednesday. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore HARWOOD. Report of Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Kay y, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding destruction of grain at Mathias Point, June 29, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 1, 1863. Sir: On the morning of the 29th a party from the U. S. S. Dragon landed and destroyed about $2,000 worth of grain stored in a barn below Mathias Point, which Actii~g Master Hill had been inftwmed had been sold to the rebel Government. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwOOD, Commodore, commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 29, 1863. Call upon Colonel Harris for a sufficient guard to protect the naval magazine. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant of Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Order of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant- Commander ]lifagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, to furnish protection to bridges in Gunpowder and Bush rivers. JUNE 30, 1863. SIR: Acting IRear.Admiral Lee has been instructed by the Depart ment to send two gunboats to join the Potomac Flotilla temporarily. When they arrive in the river, or sooner if you can without mate- rial injury to the service,, send two of the lightest draft boats, one into the Gunpowder and one into the Bush River, to communicate with the military authorities there and assist in guarding the bridges. The Jacob Bell will be ready for service tomorrow afternoon. The two tug gunboats recently purchased for the flotilla will leave New York to-morrow, Wednesday Page 293 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 293 A good lookout should be kept on Cockpit and Shipping Points, and any other places where vessels may be annoyed by batteries. None should be allowed to be commenced while you can bring a gun to bear on them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAw, U. S. Navy, Potomac River. Take an occasional look at Mathias Poiiit. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Yavy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding reliof of U. S. schooner Wil- liam Bacon. NAVY DEPARTMENT, June 30, 1863. SIR: Send one of the best schooners in the Potomac or Chesapeake to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, for the parpose of relieving the schooner William Bacon, now blockading off the inlets to the south of Wilming- ton, but in a too unseaworthy condition to be continued on that duty. Acting Rear-Admiral Lee has been instructed to send the William ilacon into the Potomac. The vessel you send should be supplied with an anchor of extra weight and proportional size chain of not less than 100 fathoms. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy. Commodore A. A. HAuwoon, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding arrests made by the vessels of his command. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 1, 1863. SIR: The Ella arrived this morning and brought up the following persons who had been arrested by the Potomac Flotilla in the act of crossing the river from Virginia to Maryland: - George Burnett, Alfred llardingham; supposed to be blockade runners. William Frazer (negro), captured with them. Charles Douglas, Joseph Parsons; supposed to be Confederate sol- diers or spies. William Hunter, who represented himself as a deserter from the Tenth Louisiana Regiment. These persons have been placed in the custody of the provost-marshal ot the district. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Poton~ac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 294 294 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 2, 186310:30. Place the Cecur de Lion in the best position for guarding the bridge. Cooperate with the military authorities without assuming any control over them. You can advise with the commanding officer and act according to your discretion, keeping in view the object you were sent to accomplishthe protection of the bridge. A. A. HARWOOD. W. G. MORRIS, Commanding Owur de Lion, Gunpowder Niver. [Telegram.] GUNPOWDER RIVER, July 2, 186310:45 a. m. The steamer Occur de Lion has arrived here. There are 200 infantry here also. W. U. MORRIS. [Telegram.] NAvY YARD, WASIIJNLtTON, July 3, 186311:15 a. m. The Teaser has arrived this morning for coal. Acting Ensign Sheri- dan reports all quiet on the river, and no signs of any attempt to raise batteries. A few cavalry were seen between Shipping and Cockpit points, which were dispersed by a few shell from the gunboats. A. A. HARWOOD. SECRETARY OF NAVY. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ilfagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, transmitting statement ~f refugee regarding C. S. S. Patrick Henry. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, July 3, 1863. DEAR SIR: I enclose you a statement made by a refugee who goes np in the steamer Keyport to-morrow, in charge of a detective, to the provost-marshal at Washington. I think it may be relied upon. Respectfully and faithfully, your servant, SAMUEL MAfAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc., Navy Yard, Washington. [Enclosure.] Statement of William Harris. I left Richmond on the 27th of June, and came off from the Virginia shore to the mortar (guard vessel) at Piney Point, Md., on the 3d of July. The steamer James- town, now the Patrick Henry, is lying in the James River at Drewrys Bluff, is ready for sea, and will try and get out. She mounts six or seven guns, and the enemy fee Page 295 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 295 confident they can get her out of the roads. I have this information from Mr. H. Halleck, who was imprisoned at the same time as John Minor Botts. Mr. Halleck l~egged me to give this information as soon as I reached the North, but to be careful that his name was not mentioned, as he is a loyal man, but his business and property obligc him to remain in Richmond. The Patrick Henry is fitted out as a privateer. Her charts were sent on board on the 25th (or about). [WILLIAM HARRIS.] SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore IIARwooD. P. 5.Mr. Harris has been the manager of the street railroads in Richmond. Letter from Commodore Hc~rwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division. JULY 6, 1863. SIR: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 3d instant, enclosing the statement of William Harris. The information, omitting names of persons, was transmitted by telegram to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, arid received by him July 4, 10 p. m. Very respectfally, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Fldtilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding captured refugee. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 6, 1863. SIR: I have to report for the information of the Department that Acting Master J. C. Tole, commanding the Resolute, brought to this yard a refugee named Francis Moore, from South Carolina, who sur- rendered himself under a flag of truce~at Aquia Creek on the 3d instant. I have placed him in custody of the provost-marshal of the district. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Navy Department. [Telegram. I NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 6, 186310:10 a. m. Send the Mahasica immediately to Hampton Roads to report to Admiral Lee. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore HARWOOD Page 296 29i3 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Telegram] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 6, 1863. The Mahaska left the yard for Hampton Roads at 12:45 p. m. A. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plot illa, regarding movements of vessels. NAVY I)EPARTMENT, July 6 [7], 1863. SIR: Send back to Rear-Admiral Lee the two gunboats belonging to his squadron, and withdraw those of your squadron stationed at Havre de Grace, Gnnpowder, and Bush rivers. Very respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washingtou. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 7, 1863. Return with the Cxur de Lion to the Potomac River, and on your return report to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw. 1)irect the vessel belonging to the Potomac Flotilla at Bush River to return also. A. A. HARwOOD. Acting Master MORRIS, Gunpowder River. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding movements of vessels. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 8, 1863. SIR: Your order of yesterday to send the gunboats belonging to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron back to Acting Rear- Admiral Lee, and to withdraw those of my squadron stationed at Havre de Grace etc., has been received and executed. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedieiit servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Fl& tilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the arrival at the navy yard of prisoners of uar and refugees. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 10, 1863. SIR: I have to report for the information of the Department that the Ella arrived last evening and brought up two prisoners of war arreste Page 297 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 297 in Lancaster County, Va., wbile on leave of absence. Their names are l)8vid and Thomas (A. Masten, brothers, Tenth Virginia Cavalry. Also refugees as follows, viz: Wilson Robertson, claiming to be a British subject; Jeff~rson Fisher, wife, and two children, and Mrs. Charles Norton and child. These persons came to the schooner Racer just above Lower Cedar Point, under flag of truce. I have turned all tbe above-named persons over to the provost- iitarsli al, military district of Washiu gton. 1 have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAiRWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Report ~f Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, of the capture of D. J. Payne. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station B. Potomac Flotilla, July 12, 18G3. SIR: I would respectfully report that yesterday I sent a boats crew on shore iii charge of Masters Mate Charles [A.j Stewart, at Stratford iXI ills, Va. On going up the road they saw a man approaching, keeping out of sight until he came up, when lie was informed that he was a pris- (tiler. His name is D. J. Payne, but in Virginia he goes by the name of Captain Harris. He is a resident of St. Marys County, Md. On taking him he attempted to chew up a paper, which upon taking from him, l)roved to be a list of goods. Another l)iece he succeded in tear- ing to l)ieces so that it could not bejoined again. From infoiination gained on shore I believe him to ~e connected with iDarrington, a noted smuggler, whom I arrested a short time ago at the same place. About six weeks ago a schooner landed ordnance stores at this l)lace, and from the people on shore who assiste(l in loading the carts I learn that Payne received the cargo and took it to Richmond. Payne formerly owned the schooner Mechanic, but, by his own statement, has sold her. I strongly suspect that this vessel is the one that landed the ordnance stores] at the above place. After taking Payne on board, a young man who lived near 1)y was brought off. He recognized Payne as the one who had charge of the above stores, and that he had oftefi seen him in that vicinity with goods. Since being on board he has told to every onc a (litterent story. I find he is well acquainted with blockade run- ning iii this neighborhood. I arrested Payne, together with a number of others, on board the schooner Mechanic in St. Clements Bay Novem- bei- 1,1862, but [he] was afterwards let go by order of the cal)tain of the fleet. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, WM. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Senior Officer, Potomac Flotilla Page 298 298 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding detention of messengers of the Army. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, July 15, 18G3. Sin: The Teaser, Acting Ensign Sheridan, arrived at the yard this morning, bringing with huin three persons having passes froni General Heintzelmans headquarters to cross within the lines and cross the lines of pickets upon important public business. They had also with theni an order, a copy of which is herewith enclosed, from Captaiu S. L. Brown, acting quartermaster, office of forage aiid river transportation, to the captain of the steamer to land the men at the nearest port to Belle Plain. This order, according to your instructions, could not be regarded by the officers of the flotilla, and the men were sent up by the commander of the I)an Smith, stationed at Quantico Creek. Should they prove to be scouts from General INleades army, as thi~y represent themselves to be, I shall regret that they have been ititer- rupted in the performance of their duties, and I have written to Ceneral Heintzelznan to that effect, explaining to him at the same time that the orders from the Navy Department to the flotilla forbid any reoard to be paid permits to land on the blockaded shore unless emanating from the Treasury, War, or Navy Departments. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Corn manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. [Enclosure.] OFFIcE OF FORAGE AND RIVER TRANSPORTATION, Washington, 1?. C., Jnly 13, 1863. SIR: You will take E. McGee, Jacl~ Tyson, and J. Hodges, who have passes from General Heintzelnman, and land them at the nearest port to Belle Plain. S. L. BROWN, Captain an d Acting Quartermaster. CAPTAIN OF STEAMER JOHN WARNER. Report of Acting Master Schulze, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, regarding capturc of contraband goods. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Station II, July 15, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report to you that on the 13th of this month I landed near Union wharf; Rappahannock River, a force of 50 men, and captured the following contraband goods, etc., viz: Thirteen large flat- boats (all engaged in blockade rnnning), 32 barrels alcohol, 18 barrels whisky, 27 barrels (700 pounds) copperas, 14 barrels fine salt, 31 barrels soda, some rope, and machine belting. These goods were scattered over a space of 5 square miles, and I had to destroy all of them for want of transportation. 1 have also capture Page 299 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 299 a large canoe (appropriated) and flatboat (destroyed), loaded with con- traband goods, and have sent Acting Masters Mate II. [L.] Omensetter in charge of them with price lists to Washington. Very respectfully, U. C. SCHULZE, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore A. A. Hknwoon, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Capture of schooners Cassandra and Nanjemoy, July 11 and 15, 1863. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting cer tificates of capture of schooners Cassandra and Nanjemoy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washiugton, Jnly 18, 1863. SIR: The Ella arrived this morning and bronght up the following- named persons: Page Edmunds, Coan River; arrested while guarding contraband goods. George B. Franklin; claims to belong to the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company U, taken prisoner and paroled; found on the Itappahannock iPver. They have beemi turned over to the provost-marshal of the district. I enclose certificates of captnre of the schooner Cassandra, with a lot of whisky, etc., oil board. She is now at Piney Point undergoing telnj)orary repairs to enable her to be brought to this yard. I also enclose certificate of capture of the schooner Nanjemoy, cap- tured on the 15th instant. The wreck has arrived at this yard. I have the honor to be, with great respect, yonr obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Schooner Cassandra, an old vessel which bears marks of having, been sunk for some time and raised for this occasion. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Acting Ensign J. W. Turner, U. S. S. Yankee. Whcu capture made.July 11, 1863. Where an(l for what reasons.At Jones Point, Rappahannock River, Virginia, having on board a cargo of contraband goods. The cargo, if any on board.Sixteen and one-half barrels of whisky, and 74 kegs of soda. What papers found.Xone. Remarks.The Cassandra was on fire when captured. JULY 11, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner and cargo were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. 5; Yankee, of th Page 300 300 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is tine in every particular. JAMES W. TURNER, Acting Ensign, Commanding pro tern. Potomac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Scliooner Nanjemoy, of Baltimore; dismantled, masts having been cut away. By whom and by what vessel capture rnade.Acting Ensign J. W. Turner, IT. S. S. Yankee. When capture made.July 15, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Jn Coan River, Virginia, for having run a cargo of contraband goods into Coan River. The cargo, ~f any on board.None. What papers found.None. Rernarks.The Na~~emoy was neached and filled with water, her cargo having been carried overland to the Rappahannock River. JULY 15, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner was captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Yankee, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. JAMES W. TURNER, Acting Ensign, Commanding pro tern. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Nagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding prize schooner Cassandra. Semiofficial.] LU. S. S.] ELLA, July 14, 1868. DEAR SIR: We have a prize, the schooner Cassandra, with whisky, soda, etc., but as the papers are not ready, I will not send her by the Leslie. She was taken on onr late expedition up the Rappahannock. We also destroyed about $10,000 worth of contraband goods, which could not be transported to the beach. Full reports will go up with the prize. I have the honor to be, your servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, etc. Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Nagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, Potomac Flotilla, giving further information regarding schooners Cassandra and Nanjemoy. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. ELLA, Jnly 15, 1863. DEAR SIR: I send i~p by this vessel the schooners Cassandra and (what is left of) the Na~jemoy. Also a quantity of goods, which the accompanying reports will tell of. It appears that the Nanjemoy cleared from Georgetown for Balti- more, was duly examined above, and had a pass. When passing the guard vessel at Piney Point she was leaking, and her cargo was such as one would call carrying coals to Newcastle;~~ however, we could find no reason for her detention, and she was passed. The next day Page 301 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 301 discovered she had gone into Coan River, Virginia. I sent the Yankee to (omniunicate with the Jacob Bell and to intercept the goods in transit over the Rappahannock. The expedition was successful. After the return of the Yankee I sent her up the Coan to bring the Nanjemoy out, which she did, but the contrabandists had cut away her spars, etc. Mr. Turner, the acting ensign in charge of the Yankee, has displayed energy and good judgment. We have gotten fairly to work, and I hol)e to break np the trade. Very little has yet been attempted, but plenty of goods are in St. Marys County ready for transit. I have the honor to be, your servant, SAME. MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARwooD, Commanding Nary Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Ensign Turner, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Yankee, of the capture by that vessel of schooners Cassandra and Nanjemoy. U. S. S. YANKEE, Potomac Flotilla, July 16, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that, having received information from Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, of a schooner having mn into Coan River, Virginia, and having received orders from him to enter Coan River and seize schooner and goods if to be found, at 10:35 on the morning of the 10th instant, 1 proceeded to Coan River. Unfortunately we took the ground about a mile from the wharf, and with all our efforts failed to get the vessel off until 6:30 p. m. In the meantime I received reliable information that the goods had been carried across the country to the neighborhood of Union wharf, Rappahannock River, and also that the schooner Nanjemoy had been dismantled and beached. Findiiig that nothing could be done that evening, I returned to Piney Point, anti related all the circumstances to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, who iniinediately ordered me to the Rappahannock, where I proceeded with the utmost dispatch, and had the good fortune to capture the schioouer Cassandra, with a large quantity of those very goods on board. The capture was not effected without difficulty, as the people in charge of her had set her on fire at our approach, starting several barrels of whisky in the hold, which carried the fire over her very rapidly. As soon as possible I got on board of her with ten men and all the fire buckets I could muster, and after great exertion succeeded in get- ting the fire under. I found on board 16~ barrels of whisky and 74 kegs of soda; 2 of the barrels of whisky so badly charred, that they burst in the slings and were host. Five or six kegs of soda were more or less damaged by water, and the schooner herself is old and compara- tively worthless. The port she hailed from was painted out. 1 can not close this report without making mention of the valuable assistance rendered to inc by Acting Masters Mate Hiram C. Borden, of this vessel, and later by Acting Assistant Surgeon George B. Todd. The schooner Cassandra now lies at Point Lookout, as does th eNanjemoy, which I succeeded in bringing from Coan River yesterday in a dis- mantled state. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES W. TURNER, Acting Ensign, Commanding pro tem. ANDW. A. ilAnwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 302 302 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Commendatory letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division. JULY 18, 1863. Sin: Your letter in relation to the operations of the flotilla, and especially to the captures of the schooners Cassandra and Ncu~emoy, have been received. The results are satisfactory, and evince commendable vigilance on the part of the flotilla. I have also your letter, enclosing one from Acting Master Frank, in relation to Mr. Smoots fugitive slaves. I retu~n it with an endorse- ment. The act of Congress referred to leaves no discretionary authority to officers, and I see no remedy for the owners of slaves but in an appeal through the civil authority. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AND. A. HARWOOD Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, etc., Potomac River. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. AS~. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, tr((nsmitttng certificates of capture by U. AS1. S. Anacostia of blockade runners, July 16, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 24, 1863. SIR: I forward for the information of the Department a certificate of capture of a canoe and two persons named J. C. hudson and C. B. Hudson, blockade runners, made by the U. S. S. Anacostia, Acting Master Provost, on the 16th instant. The particulars of this capture will be found in the certificate. The money has been placed in the hands of the prize commissioners, and the prisoners sent to the provost-marshal. 1 have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Canoe; prisoners: C. B. Hudson, J. C. Hudson. By whom and by what vessel capture made.J. H. Jackson, executive officer; U. S. S. Anacostia. When capture made.July 16, 1863. lVhere and for what reasons.llerring Creek, Md.; having cr.msed from Virginia in the night to get supplies. The cargo, if any on board.One box of tobacco, weighing 105 pounds $73; several empty bags, jugs, etc. What papers found.Two lists of articles to be purchased. Remarks.Two men were taken prisoners in the canoe, named C. B. Hudson and J. C. Hudson the latter had on his person $73 to purchase goods. The canoe broke up, and the bags, etc., were quite worthless Page 303 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 303 JULY 16, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned prize and prisoners were cal)tllred by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Anacostia, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. NELSON PROVOST, Acting Master, Commanding. keport of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificates of captures made by various vessels of his command. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Nacy Yard, Washington, July 20, 1863. SIR: I forward for the information of the Department a certificate of cn})tllre made by the U. S. steamers Jacob Bell, Satellite, and Yankee, oii the 13th instant, of one canoe, one flatboat, and a lot of merchandise ii en m Unioi wharf, Rappahannock River. I also forward certificate of capture of a lot of dry goods, shoes, etc., nude by the U. S. steamers Cwur de Lion and Primrose, on the 17th instaiit, in Charles County, Md., for violating the blockade. I have also to report that on the 18th instant the U. S. S. Adolph Hugel Cal)tLlrCd two mcmi, giving their names John Burke and Thomas Martin, amid a boy named John Martin, in a small boat, endeavoring to run whisky across the Potomac River into Alexandria, Ma. These persons have all been placed in the custody of Captain Todd, l)roVost- in arshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secrelary of the Navy. [Enclosures.] Potomac FlotillaCertificate of capture. Kame and character of the prize.Dry goods, shoes, etc.; John Thorn as. By whom and by what vessel capture made.[Hugh] Jones, acting ensign, U. S. S. Cwur de Lion; Charles [A.] Stewart, masters mate, U. S. S. Primrose. I1~ lien cai)ture niade.July 17, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Cnckold Creek, Charles County, Md.; for violating the blockade. List of goods.One case pipes, 2 cases, contents unknown~ 1 case sterling, 2 boxes (Iry goods, 3 boxes sundries, I box carding combs, 6 boxes boots and shoes, I valise, sundries. What P~P~r5 ound.None. Remarks.The within goods and prisoner were captured, while en route to Virginia, in Charles County, Md. The goods were brought from Chaptico, at the head of the Wicomico River, by a party of men from Virginia. On our approach the men fled, but a few hours later took Jolmmi Thomas, who acknowledged that he was one of the party, and caine from Virgimmia to purchase Page 304 304 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. JULY 17, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned goods and prisoner were capture(1 by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. steamers Primrose and Cwur de Lion, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every iarticular. WM. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding, and Senior Officer Present. I~otornac Flotilla. Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Canoe, no name, appropriated for the use of the flotilla; flatboat, no name, destroyed as useless. By whom and by what vessel capture made.U. S. S. Jacob Bell, U. S. S. Satellite, U. S. S. Yankee. When capture made.July 13, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Near Union wharf, Ilappahannock River; running the blockade. The cargo, if any on board.Sixty-tliree barrels of soda, 19 barrels alcohol, 9 barrels whisky, 1 ton (2,009 1)ouuds) copperas (more or less). Wh at papers found.No papers toiin d. Remarks.All these goods I have put on board the prize schooner Na~jemoy for transportation to Washington. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, July 16, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned canoe, flatboat, and con- traband goods were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Jacob Bell, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. G. C. SCIIULZE. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Prim- rose, regarding & ipedition to Mattox Creek, Virginia, for the interception of smuggled goods~. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station F, Potomac Flotilla, July 18, 1863. SIR: I would respectfully report that in my several expeditious to Virgimiia during the last week, I learned from reliable persons there that a large quantity of goods were to be shipped from Cuckold Creek, Charles County, Md., to Mattox Creek, Virginia, and that persons ha(1 recently crossed over to purchase the same. I therefore sent the steamer Cwur de Lion to guard the creek. Yesterday Captain Jones rel)orted that the goods had arrived and would be taken to Virginia dnrimmg the night. Proceeding to the above place in company with the Cwur de Lion, I ordered Captain [Hugh] Jones, at 5:30 p. in., with one boat from his vessel and my cutter, in charge of Masters Mate Charles [A.] Stewart, to go up the creek and search for the goods. At 12 p. in. the boats returned and reported that they found the goods on the farm of Mr. Z. Posey. The men who were with them had just loaded a large cart, drawn by a big yoke of oxen. Captain Jones called out to them to surrender, but in the darkness of the night they succeeded in escaping, although several shots were fired at them. Believing that there were still other goods in the vicinity, I again ordered the boats back to mak Page 305 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 305 a further search. At 8 a. m. this morning the boats returned, not hay- ing found ally goods, but brought Mr. Z. Posey and son, on whose place the goods were found, and who also owned the cart, but upon learning that the goods were brought upon the farm of Mr. Posey and the cart used by hisservants without his knowledge, I let them go. While the crews were returning this morning one of the men who made his escape last night, named John Thomas, was captured. He acknowledges that he is a resident of Virginia, arid came over to Mary- land to buy goods. I have sent the prisoner and goods in charge of Prize-Master Charles [A.] Stewart to Washington in the Leslie. I am, with respect, your most obedient servant, WM. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Corn inanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Senior Officer, Potomac Flotilla. Attack upon U. S. transport George Peabody by Coi~federates at Mathias Point, Va., July 18, 1868. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 18, 1863. (Received at 7:50 p. in.) I have just i-eceived information that the army transport George Peabody was ashore opposite Mathias Point. A party of rebel horse artillery opened lire from the heights just this side of the point with a battery of twelve guns. Paymaster Brayton, who was coming up in the Keyport, gave notice to the Resolute and the Jacob Bell, which l)roceded to the relief of the Peabody and would reach her in about three-quarters of au hour. A. A. JIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding. lou. G. WELLES, Secretary of Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 19, 18631 p. m. I have information from the George Peabody, now on shore above Mathias Point, up to 8 oclock last night. At that time she was not off, although three of our gunboats were to attempt it at high water. They will remain there for protection. As the vessel went on at high water and light, it is probable that she can not float without lighten- ing, which we can not do. Two canal boats as lighters, or to be used as camels, with a steamer, might effect the object. The enemy who attacked her yesterday have been driven off by our boats arid th~ barn occupied by them as a shelter for guns and horses has been h~irned. A. A. llARw~,oD. Brigadier-General MEIGS. Report of Acting Master Schuize, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob ~e11. U. S. S. JACOB BELL, 0/f Mathias Point, July 20, 1863. SIR: I have to report that on the 18th of this mGnth the rebels opened with field artillery on the American steamer George Peabody, NWRVOLS 2 Page 306 306 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. then lying aground 2 miles above Mathias Point. Immediately after receiving this information, I got underway aiid was soon joined by the Resolute, in the meantime the U. S. S. Racer had been towed in position and opened fire upon the rebels; they immediately disappeared. I then landed a party of forty men. Eight cavalrymen, who guarded a barn with 1,100 barrels Confederate corn, fled as soon as onr blue jackets made their appearance. 1 (lestroyed the barn and corn. The guns (two 10-pounder Parrott and two 12-pounder smoothbore) that fired upon the Peabody belong to the regular Confederate artillery, and are commanded by Captain Clayton [II. B. Claytor 0?]; he has also forty mounted riflemen. They are now encamped 4 miles inland. The rebels fired altogether eighteen shots; two of them struck the Peabody. Navigation was not stopped for a moment, and it is as safe for vessels to pass Mathias Point now as it was two months ago. Very respectfuly, etc., U. C. SCH1ITLZE, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander S. MA~Aw. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Nary Yard, Washington, July 20, 1863. Sin: On Saturday last the transport steamer George Peabody, while lying aground on IJpper Cedar Point, was attacked by flying artillery from the Virginia shore. In my telegram of Saturday evening I stated that there were about twelve guns, but since then I have beeii reliably informed that there were but two. The vessel was hit but once. The gunboats Jacob Bell, Resolute, and Teaser have attempted to get the Peabody off, but have failcd, as the vessel went on light and at high water. We shall be unable to get her off, and as she is liable to be again attacked by the enemy, it is to be hoped that the Quarter- masters 1)epartmeiit will send down lighters to act as camels, which appears to be the only practicable way to remove her froni her present dangerous position. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, - Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Ensign Jones, U. S. Navy, commandtng U. 8. 8. Cvur de Lion, regarding captures of blockade ranners. U. S. S. C0~nTR BE LION, Potomac Flotilla, July 20, 1863. Sin: Having heard that there were some contraband goods to be taken from Peter Waexall [Piccowaxton 11 Creek, Maryland, to Virginia, I proceeded to the above place and anchored. At 9p. in. sent one of my boats to Cuckold Creek to look out that iio boats should pass them. A Page 307 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 307 10: 30 1 hailed a boat supposed to be passing, and had to fire two rifle shots to briiig her to. It prove(l to be a blockade runner by the name of Alexander Sherber, with two negroes. He had some provisions, a (louble-barrel gull, and a pair of saddlebags. He has told me he does not know anything about how or where he was going to, but sai(I he was acquaillte(1 on shore. I proceeded on shore an4 found froriri Mr. Goodridge that he had run the blockade with a boat load of goods al)out ten days ago; also this morning at 9 a. in., I arre~ited John 0. Hill, a soldier belonging to the First Maryland Ileginlent in the South- ern Confederacy; also a inaii nhmed W. Swill g C arrick, supposed to be an agent in buyiiig up goods to take to ]itichinond. I should like to kiiow what I am to do with them. I have also a very large boat with muffled oars, taken with the first named l)erson, A. Sherber. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HUGH JONES, Acting Ensign, Commanding. Wi~i. T. STREET, Acting ilaster, Commanding U. S. S. Primrose. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 20, 1863. I have sent orders to the remahiing mortar vessels to be sent to the yard as soon as possil)le, to be fitted according to your dispatch. They are the schootiers Adolph fin gel, Dan Smith, Soybronia, Racer. It is very iHhi)ortallt that the vessels intended for the flotilla at New York slionld be seiit to the Potomac as 500fl as they can be spared, as the smngglers are active and two of the ulortar vessels have been used as guard vessels, which must be replaced. A. A. HARWOOP. SECRETARY OF NAvY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 22, 1863. State uiames of the two mortar vessels going to Port Royal, [S. C.] GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant of Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, July 22, 186311:10 a. m. Two mortar vessels goilIg to Port Royal are the Racer and Dan Smith. They have just arrived at the yard. ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY Page 308 308 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Order of Acting Master Taylor, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner Sop hronia, to Acting Master street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Primrose, to convoy steamer Detroit. U. S. SCHOONER SOPHEONIA, Piney Point, July 20, 1863. SIR: You will immediately get underway and proceed up river as convoy to steamer Detroit until daylight, when you will leave her and return to this 1)lace and report to me. The Detroit has 100 prisoners on board who are troublesome and are now making some show of revolt. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES TAYLOR, Acting Master, ~ U. S. Schooner Sophronia. Acting Master STREET, Commanding U. S. S. Primrose. Report of Acting Master Phinney, U. S. Navy, commanding liT. S. schooner Racer, regarding capture of blockade runners. U. S. MORTAR SCHOONER RACER, Station 1), Poto~nac River, July 21, 1863. SIR: I have to report that last night about 10 oclock Acting Masters Mate H. C. Whitmore, with a boats crew from this vessel, captured a boat with three men (two white and dne colored), giving their names as henry A. Suttle, Charles Cunningham, and Addison Marshall (colored), running the blockade from Virginia to Maryland. They stated they were going over to get supplies for their families. Nothing was found upon them except a small sum of money on each, which was given back to them. The boat was destroyed. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, ALVIN PHINNEY, Acting Jllaster, Commanding. Commodore ANDREW A. ilARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington Navy Yard. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificates of captures made by U. S. steamers Cur- rituck and Yankee, July 20, 21, and August 1, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA Navy Yard, Washington, August 3, 1863. SIR: The Resolute arriVed at the yard yesterday, bringing up a small sloop, the Clara Ann, containing some 40 barrels of whisky, captured by the Yankee; also some goods taken by the Currituck. I enclose the certificates of capture of both the above-mentioned prizes. I also enclose list of officers and crew of the Yankee at the time of the capture of the Clara Ann. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD. Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 309 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 309 [Enclosures.] Potomac Flotilla.Cert if cate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Six barrels of whisky, 8 packages miscellaneous goods, 4 canoes. By whom and by what vessel capture made.U. S. S. Gurrituck, Acting Master T. J. Linnekin. When capture made.July 20 and 21, 1863. lVhere and for what reasons.Dividing Creek, Virginia, having run the blockade. The cargo, ~f any on board.[None.] What papers found.No papers. Rcmarks.Canoes were destroyed. These goods were found con- cealed in the woods, having been landed from canoes which had run the blockade. RAPPAIIANNOCK RIVER, July 22, 1868. I hereby certify that the above mentioned articles of merchandise were captured by the nndersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Currituck, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting ]llaster, Commanding. Potomac Flotilla.Certificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Clara Ann, a sloop of 15 tons burden. By whom and by what vessel capture made.James W. Turner, U. S. S. Yankee. When capture made.August 1, 1863. Where and for what reasons.Coming out of Cove [Coan l] River,Yir- ginia, and having on board a contraband cargo; also having her name concealed by a canvas cover. The cargo, if any on board.Forty barrels of whisky, 1 package of matches, 1 Colts pistol. What papers found.A clearance from the port of Philadelphia to Washington, D. C. Remarks.The captain (whose name was reported to me as Purrell) had landed 6 barrels of whisky and escaped. I have taken a compass out of the prize for the use of this vessel. The following prisoners were captured on board the prize, viz: Charles Cooper, James McCormick, James Johnson, Thomas Wheeler, Peter Wheeler, John Brown. AUGUST 1, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned sloop was captured by the uiidersigned, commanding the U. S. S. Yankee, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. JAMES W. TURNER, Acting Ensign, Commanding pro tem Page 310 310 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPATIANNOCK. Letter from the Secretary ~f the Navy to Commodore flarwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting telegrcem relatire to Confed- erate naval expedition J~r the capture of boats on the Rappahannock River.* NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 21, 1863. SIR: I transmit herewith for your information a copy of a telegram of to-days date received by Major-General Ilalleck from Major-General [R. 0.1 Schenek, commanding at Baltimore. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. (Jominodore A. A. flARwoob, Commandant Navy Yard, lVashington. [Enclosure. Telegram.] BALTIMORE, Jnly 21, 1863. James Seeson, spy, from iRichmond, reports that he passed at Old Church, on July 15, about 500 men, with six boats on wagons, who were going, as they said, to surprise gunboats on the happahannock. ROBERT C. SCHENOK, Major-General HALLECK, Major- General. General in Chief. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding rumored movements of the enemy against gunboats in Rappahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, Jnly 25, 1863. SIR: Immediately upon the receipt of your letter of yesterday, enclos- ing the copy of a telegram from General Schenck to Geiieral Halleck, the King Philip was dispatched down the river, to put the officers com- manding the gunboats on the Itappahannock on their gnard. The Satellite and Currituck are at present stationed there and if the iiistructions given to the commanding officers of the flotilla are properly observed, there is very little danger to be apprehended from attacks by boats. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding disposition of refugees. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 25, 1863. SIR: The instructions of the Department relative to the blockade of the Virginia shore, ai id the caution contained in its lettert of the 24th * See capture of U. S. Steamers Satellile and Reliance, August 23, 1863. It is learned from unofficial sources that this expedition was recalled by order from the Secretary of the C. S. Navy, when it had arrived at Old Church, and did not start again till August 12, 1563.-.-COMPLLERs. tSee p.261 Page 311 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 311 of April in reference to refugees, obliges me to make the Department aware of the embarrassment the officers of the flotilla are exposed to in the present state of things. Refugees are constantly crossing the Potomac in canoes, sometimes endeavoring to avoid our vessels and sometimes coming directly to them, thinking by so doing to iiisure a speedy passage to Washington. While our troops were in the neighborhood all such persons were turned over to them, but the cases can no longer be disposed of in that way. Flags of truce are also frequently displayed on the Virginia shore, which generally turn out to have been raised by parties who desire to be taken off. The letter of the Department, reierre(l to above, expresses the opinion that the persons described as refugees should be received with great caution, as many of them are acting as spies. There can be no doubt of the soundness of this view, and I can see no remedy for the difficulty but in establishing a military post, where all refugees can be sent and their true character critically examined beibre they are permitted to go further. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, (Jommanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commantling Potomac Flotilla, regartling rejgees. NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 29, 1863. Siu: I have receive(l your letter of the 25th instant in reference to refugees. This subject is involved in some difficulty, requiring nice discrimina- tiomi in order to do justice to loyal citizens and yet avoid imposition. At this time, when the rebel leaders are imposing a general draft, there are many undoubtedly ticeing from the conscription. Navy officers on blockade duty can not receive and sustain all these, and yet I am aware it is hard to compel them to remain in the rebel region, in many instances. I am, respectfully, GiDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. JIARWOOB, Commandant Nary Yard, IVashington. Report of Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding refugees. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 30, 1863. SIR: I have received your reply of the 29th instant to my (flotilla) letter, No. 285, in relation to refugees. I beg leave to say that time instructions given hitherto by the Depart- nient have been so (lefinite that the officers of the flotilla will hardly venture to assumne the responsibility of allowing persons whose loyalty they are not positively assured of to cross the river. Many have suc- ceeded and more will succeed in getting over, and I would recommen Page 312 312 OPERATIOI~S ON THE POTOMAC ANI) RAPPAHANNOCK. that arrangements should be made with the military authorities that all who are apprehended may be examined and such disposition be made of them as circumstances may require. I irnderstand that there is to be a depot of prisoners at Point Lookout. If so, refugees might be sent there by the flotilla to be examined and disposed of Obviously, if great discrimination be not observed, spies will come among those who are leaving Virginia to escape the draft, and the provost-marshal should be made aware of the advantages afforded to spies by the turu affairs have taken. 1 perceive by the Baltimore American of this morning that many of the refugees who have reached the Maryland shore have taken passage in the Keyport to Baltimore. If this be the case, the embarrassment of the officers of the flotilla will be somewhat lessened, but it will iiot be the less necessary that there should be some party stationed at Piney Point to see that improper persons are not mixed up with the apl)ar- ently destitute. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] From the Batimore American, July 30, 1863. Refugees from the South.At an early hour yesterday morning 72 woin~n and children appeared at the Gilmer House and stated that they were refugees from the South. They reached here in the steam- ers J& eyport and Planter, and their appearance indicated not only want but general destitution. Some of their statements, sh owing what they had suffered, were calculated to touch the hardest heart, and much sympathy was expressed for them. Happily, they are ~0W iii the enjoymeut of such comforts as warm friends are enabled to bestow. Report of Acting Ensign Jones, U~ S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Ca?ur de Lion, of the capture by that vessel of a party of blockade runners. U. S. S. Cu~un DE LION, Lower Cedar Point, Md., July 27, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the capture of a boat with the fol- lowing-named persons crossing to Virginia: Mr. George D. Ashton, wife, and child; Miss H. Ash ton, Mr. Robert Kendall; also one colored man. I received information on shore that this same party landed on the Maryland shore last Friday, the 24th, with the intention of seeing some of their friends; also of taking some goods back with them on their return. I also understand from some negroes on shore that the goods were intended for Dr. Todd, but he did not succeed in getting them in time for shipment. They have sundry small articles, such as calico, soda, sugar, etc. The boat I left at Blakistone Island. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HUGH JONES, Acting Ensign, Commanding. Commodore A. A. HA~woon, Commanding, etc Page 313 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 313 [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 28, 186312 m. Acting Assistant Paymaster Kirkendall has just arrived and will attend to the accounts immediately. Heavy firing was heard yester- day in the direction of the gunboats stationed near the Happahannock River. Give the boats orders to blockade that river, but not to ascend it except by your orders. GIDEON WELLES, Commodore HARwoon. Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the capture, by U. S. S. Teaser, of two men in 3iattawoma~t Creek. PoToMAc FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, July 30, 1863. SIR: I have to report the arrival at this yard of the U. S. S. Resolute, with two persons, namely, James Harrison and Robert Bland, captured with a boat by the U. S. S. Teaser, on the night of the 27th instant, in iNlattawoman Creek, with a small quantity of loose tobacco. The boat has been destroyed, and the prisoners placed in the custody of the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GiDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, July 31, 1863. Point Lookout having been designated as a depot for rebel soldiers captured by our forces, you will direct a sufficient naval force to be always in close vicinity and in communication with the senior Army officer at that point. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Comman ~Iant Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Lieutenant- Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First I)ivision Potomac Flotilla, regarding affairs in the Rappahannock River. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. ELLA, Piney Point, August 1, 1863. DEAR SIR: I send up the Resolute with a prize captured by the Yankee this morning, with an officer to make affidavit and the neces- sary papers Page 314 314 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAITANNOCK. Acting Assistant Paymaster Clarke goes up for funds, and also to make affidavit with regard to goods captured by the Gurrituck that are on board the Resolute. There is no news from the ilappahannock. The & ttellite and Reliance are there, with strict orders as to vigilance. The enemy has now a regiment of cavalryGeorgian, I thinkon the neck, that perhaps numbers 40() men, cut np iiit~ squads of 10 to 15. They have made no deiiioustration as yet against us iu the Rap- pahannock. So much of your order as relates to ascending the Rappahaunock as far as Fort Lowry I hope will be rescinded, and, if necessary, I will accompany aiiy expeditiou that I may desire to scn(l. We ofteii hear of goods passing the Potomac, an(l our only way to capture is to intercept them as they cross the Rappahaitijock. This we have done in several cases, but can not now, with the l)rcsent order iu force. rfhlere is no point where the eiieiiiy can make ati attack oii us below Fort Lowry with a fair chance of (loilig us material [ilkjnry] with- out artillery, as the river is broad up to that point. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander, etc. Collimodore A. A. HARwoO~, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding affairs in the Rappahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, August 3, 1863. Sm: The force at the mouth of the Rappahannock is as large as the number of effective vessels in the flotilla will permit, namely the ASatel- lite, Currituck, and Reliance. Two are generally present at a time within sul)porting distance, with strict orders as to vigilance, and the third on its way to take in coal. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw reports that on the northern iieck or peninsula, between the Potomac an(l Rappahannock rivers, the enemy has now a regiment of cavalry (Georgia, he thinks) numbering about 400 men, divided into squads. I have information from reliable sources that there is an organized baud of contrabandists whose chain of com- munication extends from the Patuxent to the Rappahannock. The cavalry party is no doubt used to escort them. The operations in the Patuxent should be looked into. I aum told that there is a company of Hebrews near Lower Cedar Point, who have wagons, bringing goods across, whm ichi are kept concealed in the woods until a favorable oppor- tunity occurs of running them across the Potomac. Lientenant-Conunander Magaw writes that the only way to capture these goods is to iimtercept them on the I{appahannoek if we miss theni on the Potomac, and asks me to modify my order forbidding vessels of the tiotilla to ascend the Rappahannock, so as to allow them to go up as far as Fort Lowry. He offers to accoinpammy any expedition that may go up the river, to see that it is conducted pru(lently. As the instructions came from the Department, I do not feel authorized to sanction any change Page 315 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 315 No demonstration has as yet been made on the flotilla in the iRappa- h ainiock. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of the Secretary of the Aary to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, corn man ding Potomac Flotilla, regarding expedition up the Rappahan- nock River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 5, 1SGS. Sin: Your communication No. 294, dated the 3d instant, has beei received. The 1)epartrnent authorizes you to order an exl)editioll up the 1~a1)pahaullock under Lieutei aut-Comman (icr Magaw for this special time. Very respectfully. etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. [Telegram.] EASTYILLE, VA., August 5, 1863. (Received at Washington 8:30 a. in.) A party of eight or nine armed men appeared omi Smiths Island on Monday the 3(1 instant and com~)letely gutted the light-house, carrying away the laml)s, reflectors, and everything else belonging to the estab- lislimnent, and broke every glass. They threaten to destroy Hog Island and Cherrystone lights. My life is in danger, as well as all the Govern- ment ~)ropcrty on the island. They are encamped on the island. WM. W. STATE, Light-House Keeper. LIGHT-HOUSE BOARD, Washington. Letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla., to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. iVavy, commanding First and Second Divisions, suggesting expedition up the Rappahannock Ricer. AUGUST 7,1863. SIR: In reply to your letter, extracts of which I sent to the Depart- memit, I forward to you a copy of the reply. By it you will see that you are authorized to make an expedition up the Ii~appahaminock. I do not, however, consider this as an order to go, but I leave the matter entirely at your discretion. 1 hope one day next week to go down the river to visit the different vessels of my command and I shall look for you at Blakistone Island or at Piney Point Page 316 316 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Coal has been ordered for the station at Piney Point and I trust that it will arrive at seasonable intervals so as to keep down the demnrrage bills. I retain the Ella to accompany me on my cruise. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AND. A. llAmwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Commanding First and & cond Divisions Potomac Flt4illa. Letter from CommodQre Harwood, U. AS~. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tillt~,to ]lfajor- General Heintzelman, U. ~S. Army, regarding authorized permits to vessels. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, August 8, 18G3. GENERAL: Several passes from your headquarters have been pre- sented to me signed by one of your aids, subject to my approval, for fishermen within the lines of the Army, and one for a schooner wishing to take a cargo of lnmber from the Maryland shore to New York. I have informed all these persons that every part of the Virginia shore is interdicted excepting that of Alexandria, and that for regular traffic it is necessary to obtain a custom-house permit, and then apply on board of guard vessel for the regular naval Potomac pass, which the commander has been instrncted to furnish to all applicants having regular papers. To prevent misconception and in some cases delay injurious to the service, I beg leave to inform you ~that commanding officers of the vessels belonging to the Potomac Flotilla are instructed to enforce the blockade in the most rigid manner, and are forbidden to pay any regard to what are called permits from any officer, except the Sec- retaries of the Treasury, War, or Navy. In all cases, therefore, when you may deem it necessary to communicate with any portion of the Virginia shore not in the possession of our troops, but within the limits of my command (which includes the Potomac, iRappahannock, and Piankatank rivers), it will b& best to obtain the necessary authority from the Navy throngh the War Department. The order once given from the ~woper source, you may depend upon the most ready further- ance of your wishes on the part of those nuder my command. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedieut servant, ANDW. A. HARwoOD, Commodore, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. Major-General S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, U. S. Army, Commanding the Defenses of Washington. Order of the Secretary qf the.Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding tour of inspection. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 10, 1863. SIR: The Department approves of your proposed tour of inspection to the Potomac Flotilla, as indicated in your No. 296, and authorizes you while embarked to hoist the distinctive pennant of commodore. Very respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington Page 317 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 317 Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Yavy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding refugees. NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 13, 1863. SIR: You will direct that hereafter no refugees, or persons represent- ing themselves as such, be receive(l on board the vessels of the Potomac Flotilla, unless they are willing to take the oaft of allegiance, which they must do as soon as received on board, and that foreigners be received on board in no case whatever. Very respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington. Letter from Lieutena~d- Commander de Krafft, U. S. Navy, to CommodQre Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting i~forma tion of a movement of the enemy across the Rappahannock River. AuGusT 151863. COMMODORE: I send the Eureka, Acting Ensign Brice, with dis- patches; also a few officers who wish to join their vessels. A copy of the enclosed telegram from the Secretary of the Navy has l)een forwarded to Captains Magaw and Ives also instructioiis given to Acting Ensign Brice to notify each vessel as he proceeds down the river, and report to you for further orders. There is no pressure at the yard; all goes on as usual, smoothly and quietly. Very respectftdly, your obedient servant, J. C. P. BE KRAFFT, Lieutenant- Commander, Navy Yard. Commodore A. A. HARWOOB, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure-Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 15, 1863. it is reported that a regiment of cavalry, with a battery of artillery, has crossed the Rappahannock and may attempt to make trouble on the Potomac. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. CQmmodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Primrose, regarding reported movements of the enemy. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, Station F, Potomac Flotilla, August 17, 1863. SIR: Having received information that a regiment of cavalry and a battery of artillery were on theii way to the Potomac, I this morning got underway and cruised along the Virginia shore from Nomini Bay to near Mathias Point, but have not seen or heard anything of them Page 318 318 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. On my way up, I landed at White Point and took off three men, deserters from the Fifteenth Virginia Cavalry. They state that their regiment left Fredericksburg on Thursday and moved toward Chancel- lorsyille, and that there are no cavalry in the northern neck below Aquia Creek. I put them on an army transport bound to Washington. On my way down I landed at Rosiers Creek, and found the people both here and at White Point had seen nothing of any forces in their neighborhood. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Wixi. TELL STREET, Acting ]Jiaster, Commanding. Conimnodore A. A. HARWOOP, Commanding i~otomnac F lotula. Report of Lieutenant- Commander de Ji7~.afJt, U. S. Navy, of the arrest of two blockade runners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Varq Yard, Washington, August 17, 1863. SIR: I have to report, for the information of the l)epartmeiit~, the arrest of James Gray, of Virginia, and William W. Purdy, of Charles County, Md. James Gray caine from Dnmfries, Va., and was arrested in Charles County, Md., buying up goods at the various stores around Mattawoman Creek for transmission to the rebels. William W. I~urdy is accused of running the blockade and landing a load of goods in Virginia three weeks ago, and returning to Mary- land in company with William Surly, a blockade runner. These men have been 1)laced in the custody of the provost-marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, J. C. P. DE KRAFFT, Lieutenant- Commander, for Commodore, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Lieutenant- Commander de Krafft, U. S. Navy, ~f the arrival of prisoners at Washington navy yard. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, August 17, 1863. SIR: I have to report, for the information of the Department, the arrival at this yard of John M. George, William P. George, Zainuth Ceorge, all of Lancaster County, Va.; and also John Robbins, Ninth Virginia (rebel) Cavalry, arrested by order of Acting Master T. J. Linnekin, conimnanding the U. S. S. Curritucic, on the 11th instant. These men are accused of cuttimig down the trees on Windmill Point, a well-known landmark on the Chesapeake Bay. They are also reported as violent secessionists, and exceedingly active in i)reventing the escape of deserters from the rebel Army, as well as harassing Union people and others favorable to the Federal cause Page 319 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 319 Tue prisoners have been l)laced, with the necessary information, in custody of the provost-marshal. I have the holior to be, with great respect, J. U. P. BE KRAFFT, Lieutenant- Commander, for Commodore, Comdg. Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GiDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy. General rei)ort of Commodore Harwood, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, August 19, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report my return from a visit of inspection to the Potomac Flotilla, during which both stations and vessels were examined as far as the mouth of the Piankatank River. 1 found the officers generally ou the alert and the condition of the vessels, in point of order and discipline, as good as the nature of the service and its material could have led me to expect. I regret to state that in consequence either of the actual or approach- ing exl)iration of the time of so many men, the efforts of the flotilla will be materially crippled until the force caii be recruited. Smuggling is still carried on to a considerable extent, chiefly in canoes and small boats, not risking much at a time and thus increasing the chances of success in running the blockade. The approach of the steamers is generally known in time to avoid them, and the best chance of aj)prehending the contrabandists is by rowing guard, which requires hill crews for the vessels engaged in the blockade. Your telegram of the 115th, in relation to the expected interrnption of the navigation of the river by the rebel cavalry and artillery, was received on the evening of the 16th. Measures were immediately taken to secure the safe passage of vessels at the points where they would be most subject to attack, and communication was had with the shore for the purpose of obtaining information in relation to the num- bers and position of the cavalry. Nothing more, however, is known at present than the fact that there is a small force on the peninsula, and that their rendezvous is probably at Hamnpstead, between Aquia Creek and Mathias Point, about 2 miles inland. A spy was dispatched by Lieutenant-Commander Magaw to ascertain this fact, but had not returned when I left Indian Head. There was no appearance of hos~tile troops, either in passing up or dowmi the river. Instructions, however, have been given to the guard vessels to warn all transports, going or coming, to keep the Maryland shi ore on l)oard as much as possible. 1 send the latest Richmond papers, taken from a mail carrier who was ~apture(l by the Jacob Bell, and also a few letters containing rebel description of the battle of Gettysburg. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servamit, ANDW. A. ilAnwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, ecretary of the Navy, Navy Department Page 320 320 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Letter from Commodore Haruood, U. & Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tiUa, to Rear-Admiral Shubrick, U. S. Navy, chairman Light-House Board, suggesting a guard of soldiers for each light vessel. AUGUST 19, 1863. SIR: In reply to your letter of the 15th instant, I beg leave to state that the Potomac is as well guarded as the number of gunboats now under my command will a(lmit, and that at night either the vessels or boats from them are constantly patrolling the river in the vicinity of both Upper and Lower Cedar Points. I ought to inform you, however, that my force is liable to be dimnin- ished at particular points in order to reenforce other squadrons for a time or to cooperate with the Army or for indispensable repairs. I would therefore suggest that a guard of soldiers should be placed on each light vesseL Whenever the new light vessels are reported in position I will send instructions to the vessels of the flotilla to keep a vigilant watch over them at~night. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HA~woOn, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Rear-Admiral W. B. SHUBRICK, U. S. Navy, Chairman Light-House Board. Report of Commodore Jlarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transferring reports and certificate of captures of blockade runners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, August 24, 1863. Sin I have to report for the information of the Department the cap- ture by the flotilla of Richard P. Rose, of the Fifty-fifth Virginia (rebel) Regiment, captured in Lancaster County, Va., the 18th instant. I have also to report the captnre of Benjamin F. Welles, of Freder- icksburg, Va., the former owner of the U. S. S. Eureka. The enclosed copy of a letter from Acting Master T. J. Linnekin con- tains further information in regard to the capture of Mr. Welles. Henry 0. Emerson and J. C. Athey were also ~aptured, with a small quantity of goods referred to in the enclosed certificate of capture, by the U. S. S. Ca?ur de Lion on the 22d instant. John Summers and Herman Boenigker, who report themselves as deserters from the Fourth Virginia Cavalry, were captured crossing the Potomac on a raft on the 19th instant. I also enclose certificate of capture of the schooner Three Brothers, made by the U. S. S. Satellite in the Great Wicomico River on the 17th instant. These men have been placed in custody of the provost-marshal, and the schooner and goods transferred to the prize commissioners. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HAnwooB, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy Page 321 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAO AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 321 [Enclosures.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off Windmill Point, August 22,1863. Sin: I forward to you the following-named prisoner, Benjamin F. Welles, of Fredericksburg, y a., the form er owner of the U. S. S. Eureka, concerning whom 1 report as follows, viz: Mr. Welles was captnred on Totouskey Creek, Rappahannock River, the 21st instant, engaged in running grain and blockade goods to Fred- ericksburg. In answer to questions put to him he said that such men as he became desperate after losing all they had. I also report that this vessel and the Satellite destroyed the ferry at Union wharf which consisted of two large scows and a few canoes. One of the scows was new, and had on board a load of cattle~ which she was taking across the river, but upon our appearance in sight and a shell being thrown from the Satellite they put back, and the men and the cattle escaped in the woods. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. ~. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAML. MAGAW, Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. Co~un DE LIoN, August 22, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the capture of two men this morn- ing, named Henry 0. Emerson and J. C. Athey, attempting to run the blockade into Virginia under the following circumstances: At 6 a. m. a boat was reported pulling close down the Virginia shore. My two boats being away from the vessel on guard duty, I immediately got the steamer undeiway and started in chase. The boat in the mean- time continued pulling for the shore, trying to escape, but a shell from our forward gun soon brought them to, and we succeeded iii capturing them. They state that they left Alexandria, bound to Aquia Creek, and from thence to Richmond, where they had business. We captured some medicines, hats, pins, and sewing silk, valued at $84, which I have made out a prize list for, and send up by the Teaser this morning, in charge of Acting Masters Mate James 0-. Burnett. The men captured appear to be very intelligent, and there is reason to believe that they had other business in the rebel capital besides trafficking contraband goods. Very respectI~ully, your obedient servant, ~. 0-. Monni~, Commodore A. A. llARWoo~, Acting Master, Commanding. Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington. Potomac Flotilla.Sertificate of capture. Name and character of the prize.Schooner Three Brothers. By whom and by what vessel capture made.J. F. D. Robinson, acting master, commanding U. S. S. Satellite. When capture made.August 17, 1863. N W RYOL 52 Page 322 322 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Where and for what reasons.Great Wicoinico River; for being in blockaded waters. The cargo, if any on board.None. What papers found.None. Remarks.Captured for being in blockaded waters. AUGUST 17, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner was captured by the uiidcrsigned, commanding the U. S. S. AS~atellite, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above (lesignated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. J. F. D. ROBINSON, Acting iiaste~, Commanding. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. AS. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding capture of schooner Golden Leaj. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, August 27, 1863. SIR: I enclose for the information of the Department certificate of capture of schooner Golden Leaf made on the 23d instant by the U. S. S. Jacob Bell, Acting Master G. C. Schulze commanding, for a vio- lation of the blockade, by running into Rosiers Creek, Virginia, and landing a few contraband goods, consisting of sugar, etc. The Golden Leaf when captured had on board five deserters from Stu- arts rebel cavalry, who were turned over to the deputy provost-marshal of Charles County, Md. The captain of the vessel, J. II. Sebastian, has beca placed in cus- tody of the provost-marshal of this district, and the prize schooner, which arrived to-day, has been placed in charge of the prize commis- sioners. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Capture of U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance, August 23, 1863. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First and Second Divi sions, Potomac Flotilla. Unofficial.] U. S. S. DRAGON, Friday Evening, August 26, 1863. Mv DEAR SIR: I send this vessel up with the news of the capture of the Satellite and Reliance, and enclose for your satisfaction my orders* to the vessels at the mouths of the Piankatank and Rappahan- nock, to guard against surprise. There is some mystery attached to the capture of these vessels, or the most disgraceful neglect of duty I have ever heard of. Anything more I hear of the affair I will let you know. Please give me permission to go up the Rappahannock and make an examination as far as Port Tobacco. *Not found Page 323 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 323 The Jacob Bell broke down last night, or I should have been tempted to have gone up the river to-day. Yours, very respectfully, S~ML. MAGAXv, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore HARWOOB. Report of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, Potomac Flotilla, transmitting statement of William D. Spiliman, esq. U. S. S. DRAGON, Chesapeake Bay, August 28, 18G3. SIR: I have the honor to report that upon entering the Rappahan- nock this morning neither the Satellite nor Reliance wvre at their station. Report says they have been captured by boarding by the enemy and carried up the river. I euclose a statement of a Mr. Spill- man. The Freeborn, Jacob Bell, Currituck, and Tulip remain at the mouth of the Rappahannock until further orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAML. MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure.] Statement of William D. Spiliman. I saw a man named Clarke, who jumped overboard and swam ashore from the steamer Satellite, who said that one boat containing about 25 men boarded her, alongside, and another with the same number of men, over the bow. There were seven men on watch, who were immediately overpowered. The crew made some resistance. He himself fired seven shots, but when he saw the boat was taken, he jumped overboard. There were 6 men wounded on both sides. The captain of the Reliance (which was attacked by two more boats at the same time) was slightly wounded. After the capture, which was between 12 and 1 oclock Saturday night, the steamers both went up the river. The Satellite caine down Monday and Tuesday about dusk; also Wednesday about sunset. The four boats, containing about 100 men, came out of the Pianka- tank River; among them were 3 men, who came on board the Satellite at Urbana to sell chickens. While on board they learned where the ammunition, small arms, etc., were kept, so that on Saturday night as soon as they boarded the Satellite they seized these the first thing. Yesterday afternoon heard heavy firing in the Piankatank (which, from his description, I should judge to be the Commodore Jones, Cap- tain Linnekin). Tuesday the Satellite captured 2 schooners of about 60 tons each, which had put in here for a harbor, and towed them up the river; both were loaded deep. The report here is that the rebels have about 1,000 cavalry, cruising about through Middlesex County. The man Clarke was captured Sunday night, on Windmill Point, by 4 or 5 cavalrymen Page 324 324 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. WINDMILL POINT, August 28,1863. This statement was made in my presence by William Spiliman, whom we brought oft~ from Windmill Point this morning, which I believe to be as correct as could be gathered from the reports he has heard. I can not vouch for his loyalty; his family have been doing washing for our officers for some time. T. J. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding U. S. S. Currituck. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, August 28, 18636 a. m. (Received 6:341) a. in.) Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives has just arrived and reports as follows: That he learns from Mr. Edward, of Cockles Creek, Virginia, that the steamers Satellite and Reliance were captured on Saturday night near the mouth of the Rappahannock River; that Acting Master Robinson was mortally wounded, died the next day; that a naval officer in the neighborhood of Cockles Creek, at home on a furlough, states that when he left Richmond, he heard of this expedition being ready to attack the boats on the Rappahannock; from the same source, the steamers are said to be staying in the mouth of the river, awaiting to surprise other vessels of the flotilla. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw has gone with a sufficient force (five vessels) to recapture the vessels if they are there and the story is true. He will send his fastest boat, and that as soon as anything definite is known. Special orders have been given to prepare for surprise, and to clear out if considerable force should appear, and fight underway. I think therefore the story is false. A. A. HARWOOD, Cwnmodore. iou. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Xary. - [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WAShhINGTON, August 29, 1863. (Received at Washington 10: 10 a. in.) I regret to inform the Department that the news of the capture of the Satellite and Reliance is confirmed. I attribute it, from what I hear, to disobedience and neglect. A. A. HARwOOD, Commodore, Commanding. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. POTOMAC FLOTILLA. Navy Yard, Washington, August 29, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith the copy of the report* of Lieutenant-Com- mander Samuel Magaw, confirming the rumor (sent by telegram to the Department on the 27th instant) that the Satellite and Reliance had been taken by surprise by the enemys boats. See pree& ting pages Page 325 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHAN~OCK. 325 The statement of Mr. Spiliman, referred to in the letter, was left by me in the hands of Mr. Fox this morning. 1 enclose also an unofficial note of Lieutenant-Commander Magaw on the same subject, and a copy of the report of Actiiig Master Linnekin to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, which will prove to the Department that in addition to the instructions printed for the guidance of the officers of the ~otilla and the repeated cautions to be on the alert, there were special directions given to the commanders of the Satellite and Reliance in view of the contingency which took place. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. CURRITUOK, Station Ri, Rappahannock River, August 28, 1863. SIR: I beg leave to make the following statement in regard to pre- cautionary measures ordered to prevent surprise on this station, viz: First. That the boats should anchor at the month of the river, near the middle, in supporting distance of each other. Second. That the chain should be unshackled at 15 fathoms, with a tail rope and buoy attached to the chain, in order to slip cable at any moment. Third. That the officer of the deck, on the appearance of any boat, should ring the bell to go ahead, at the same time call all hands, until the character of the boat may be ascertained. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, T. ~. LINNEKIN, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, etc., Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram in cipher.] NAVY DEPAuTMENT, August 29, 1863. Send the Sangamon with sealed orders to the mouth of the Rappa- hannock to await further orders. Let her leave after dusk, and no one beside yourself to know her destination. She must be ready for action. Answer in cipher. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy. Captain GUERT GANSEVOORT, Senior Officer, U. S. Navy, off Newport News, Va. [Tcltgram.] NAVY YARD, August 29, 18631:25 p. m. We can carry 12 feet as high as Port Royal [Va.]. A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant. Hon. G. V. Fox Page 326 326 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Provost, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Anacostia. AUGUST 29, 1863. SIR: On the completion of the repairs upon your vessel you will pro- ceed without delay to the mouth of the Rappahannock River and await further orders, keeping a vigilant lookout for boarders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AND. A. HARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master NELSON PnovosT, Commanding U. S. S. Anacostia. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, August 29, 18634:20 p. m. It is desirable that T should have the information you promised to send me before I leave the yard to.night. Please reply. A. A. HARWOOD. Hon. G. V. Fox. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, August 30, 1863. If no other orders are received, retur.u the ironclad to her station immediately ~n her return dowi the river. She must not be separated from the other force, nor precede the vessels in ascending on account of torpedoes. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore HARWOOD, Washington, D. C. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding move- ments in the Rappahannock River. SANGAMON, off Tappahannock, August 31, [1863]. M~ DEAR SIR: We are abreast of the town 3:55 p. ntand draw too much water to go any higher with this vessel. I have sounded ahead, nearly full tide, with an easterly wind. We have an experienced pilot, who is of opinion that we can not go farther up than a quarter of a mile, and as the bottom in some places is hard, I deem it imprudent to proceed farther. We have not seen any vessels so far of any kind, and only a few horsemen. 1 shall await your farther instructions, and can only say I am much disappointed in not being able to reach Port Royal, [Va.], but as the tides are as full as I can expect them to be, there is small hope of that. I thought you ought to know this at once, that you might make the am-my people aware of the state of things. Yours, truly, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Page 327 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 327 Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Poto- mac Flotilla, transmitting telegram from Major-General Meade, U. S. Army, promising cooperation. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 1, 1863. SIR: Enclosed herewith is the (lispatcll of Major-General Meade, promising cooperation with your movement. If it is possible to get a force up to Port Royal to communicate with this force it should be done otherwise, return and send the Sangamon to Newport News, leaving a sufficient number of vessels to guard the mouth of the Rap- pahannock. Very respectfully, G. ~. Fox, Acting Secretary of Nary. Commodore A. A. IIARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, .1). C. [EnclosureTelegram. I HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE 1~OTOMAC, August 30, 1863. (Received 10:40 p. in.) In accordance with your instructions I have directed Brigadier- General Kilpatrick, with his division of cavalry, about 2,000 strong, and two batteries of artillery, to proceed to Port Conway [Va.], oppo- site Port Royal, and endeavor to destroy the captured gunboats if practicable. To l)rotect his rear and afford him support Brigadier-General Buford, with a brigade of cavalry and a battery, will hold the crossing at Fal- month [Rappahannock River], and Major-General Warren, with the Second Corps, about 5,000 infantry, will hold the crossings at Banks anti United States fords. 1 have not much expectation of success, however, for it is known the enemy have a division of infantry at Fredericksburg arid a brigade of cavalry, also a division of infantry at Port Royal, with a brigade on this side at Port Conway. What I anticipate is that Kilpatrick will find the gunboats above Port Royal, where they can not be reached by our naval forces, and in a position where the enemys artillery, posted on the right bank, will prevent his bringing his batteries to bear on their destruction. The great distance of Port Conway, 25 miles below Falmouth, the extreme point of our cavalry picket, and the necessity of Kilpatrick awaiting the arrival of the infantry, may prevent his reaching his destination before day after to-morrow. GEORGE G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. Mal. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General in Chief. Letter from Brigadier-General Kilpatrick, U. S. Army, to Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, U.S. Army, regarding the attempt to destroy the steamers Satellite and Reliance. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, [September] 2, [18G3]8 a. m. The enemy have abandoned the boats. Elder has riddled the Satel- lite. She is fast sinking. The Reliance is receiving a heavy fire fro Page 328 328 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. both batteries. I can not effectually destroy the boats. If the iron- clad was here both boats could be recaptured. I shall encamp to-night near Lambs Creek church. J. KiLp~nrci Brigadier- General. Lieutenant-Colonel C. Ross SMITH, Chief of Staff. [Te1e~rarn.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 3, 18G3noon. (Received 12 30 p. in.) The following dispatch was received from General Kilpatrick this morning. General Kilpatrick and the infantry force sent for his sup- port have been withdrawn, arid the former picket line down the river to Falmouth, and thence across to Potomac Creek, will be reoccupied. GEO. G. MEADE, Major-General HALLECK. Major- General. I-JEADQUARTEIIS THIRD DIvIsION, Seplembe?- 2, 12632p. m. I have just returned with my command to Lambs Creek church, where I shall encamp for the night. I could not totally (lestloy the gunboats, but have rendered them about worthless. I waited at I~ort Conway till 11 a. in. for the ironclad. It failing to make its appearance, and the enemy having opened with a battery of heavy artillei-y, I deemed it useless to remain ]onger. Unless I receive orders to the contrary, I shall return to-morrow morning. J. KILPATRICK, - Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH, Brigadier-General. Chief of Staff. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the expedition up the Rappahannock River for the purpose of destroying the captured steamers Satellite and Reliance. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 3, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following in emorauda of my recent trip to the Rappahannock for the purpose of cooperating with the land forces in the destruction of the gunboats Satellite and Reliance, recently captured and taken rip that river by the rebels. On Sunday, the 30th ultirno, left the yard in the Ella at 3:15 p. in., and arrived at Windmill Point at the mouth of the IRappahannock at 5:30 a. m. on Monday, the 31st iiltimo. There I found the Sangamon (ironclad), the Commodore Jones, and Commodore Morris, of Acting Rear- Admiral Lees squadron, and the Currituek, J. Bell, Dragon, and Tulip, of the Potomac Flotilla. At 6:15 got rinderway in the Sangamon an(l steamed up the river with the following vessels in company: Dragon (alongside), the Commodore Morris, and Jacob Bell. At 1:30 passed Fort Lowry, forind the battery deserted and neither enemy nor guns in sight. At 2:15 anchored a short distance above the wharf at Tap- pahannock, tue pilot being CT the opinion that we could not go higher. Sent the Dragon up to sound. The report being unfavorable to further progress, waited until high water and sent Lieutenant-Commander Magaw in the Dragon to soillid again. The report was that there were 11~ feet of water. Lightened ship by putting on board the two ferry- boats nearly all the 11 and 15 inch shot Page 329 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 329 Tuesday, September 1, underway at 5:30 a. in., and. after proceeding about 500 yards above our anchorage got aground. Being unable to get the vessel off before the tide had Thllen, brought the Commodore Morris and Jones alongside and took out all the coal (about 50 tons). At 11 :15 the Jacob Bell arrived from below, bringing the telegram of the Department of the 30th ultimo. At 11 :45 dispatched her to Point Lookout, with orders to the Ana- costia to go to 1~iuey Point, and for herself to remain at Point Lookout and protect the vessels and depot for prisoners, the Yankee being broken down. At nieridian the Freeborn arrived, having a coal schooner in tow, with about 100 tons of coal. 1:40 p. in., by the aid of the Dragon, Corn. modore Morris, and Jones, got the San gamon off. At 3 p. m. steamed down the river and anchored at 7 p. in. at Bow- lers Rocks. Commodore Jones and Morris were brought alongside, and the shot which had been taken out returned to the Sangamon. Wednesday, September 2, underway at 5 a. m. At 6 a. in. the Ella met us at Carters wharf with dispatches (letter of Department of the 1st instant and copy of General Meades dispatch to General Hahleck of the 31st ultimo). At 8:15 sent the Commodore Jones to Yorktown. Left the Sangamon off Mosquito Point, and sent her to Newport News iu tow of the Com- modore Morris. At 10 a. in. went on board the Currituck and gave instructions to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw in reference to the blockade of the river, and also to look out in case our cavalry should come down the peuin. sula to afford them assistance. At 11 :30 returned to the Ella. At 2:30 arrived at Point Lookout, and had a conference with Brigadier- General Marston in relation to the prisoners of war confined at that point. Thursday, 3d of September, arrived at the navy yard. I inclose herewith the soundings we took in the neighborhood of Tappahannock, those on the charts not giving of course the soundings at full title. I ought here to observe that the first pilot I consulted told me he thought we could get to Port Royal in a vessel drawing 12 feet, but referred me to Mr. Price as the best pilot attached to the flotilla. On my way dowu I took Mr. Price ou board, who was not sanguine, but willing to try. The result is known, but it should be observed that the San gamon was full of stores and anrniunition, and the tides low, as they usually are at this season. All the vessels of the flotilla received an additional warning to be on the alert. The Yankee being not only disabled in her machinery, but short handed, and. the Eureka having broken her shaft, I have ordered both to the yard. So many of the men in the flotilla have either served their time or have nearly done so, that I shall be obliged to withdraw some of the niost assailable vessels from exposed situations unless the crews are recruited. It would be imprudent from this cause to send the store vessel Wyandank down the river to remain. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwooB. Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lIon. G. V Fox, Acting Secretary of the Navy Page 330 330 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant Weidman, U. S. Navy, commanding, U. S. S. Sangamon, of expedition up the Rappahanuock River. U. S. STEAM IRONCLAD SAN~AMON, Off Newport News, James River, September 3, 1863. SIR: In accordance with orders received on the evening of the 29th of August, this vessel was placed in as good condition as the nature of the repairs then proceeding would admit, and by 8 p. m. the vessel was underway steaming toward Fortress Monroe. On my way to the fortress I was overhauled at 9 p. m. by the tug sent by you, and in charge of Lieutenant Merchant, from whom I received sealed orders, with directions on the back to open when past Willoughbys Spit light. Followed my directions, and found my desti- nation to be the mouth of the Rappahannock River, there to report to Commodore Harwood for duty. In consequence of the pilot refnsing to take the responsibility of piloting the vessel during the night, and the sea in the bay being very high, I anchored at midnight about three-fourths of a mile E.S.E. of the light-boat. At daylight on the 30th got underway and proceeded to my destina- tion, arriving there at 5 p. m. Not finding Commodore Harwood at this point, I remained at anchor until the next morning, the 31st of Augnst, when he arrived, and, according to directions, got underway, and, with the commodore aboard, taking the lead of the flotilla, and proceeded up the river. Arrived opposite a town called Tappahannock at 2 :30 p. in., abont 70 miles from the mouth of the river, where the pilot informed the commodore that he doubted his ability to I)roceed farther, and we anchored. The commodore sent the pilot through the doubtful part of the channel, and finding very near 2 fathoms through its entire length, lie determined to make aii effort to proceed up the river after lightening her somewhat (the vessel theu drawing 2 fathoms). During the night I placed aboard the Commodore Morris and the Com- modore Jones 75 XV-inch shot and 115 XI-ineh shot. The next morning (September 1) at 5 :15, the tide having reached its extreme rise, the attempt was made to get beyond this point, but failed, not having gone over 400 yards from our anchorage before grounding in 11 feet water. The vessel was steaming very slowly, with barely steerage way upon her, and no possible injury could have resjated from this circumstance. The bottom was soft mud, with a crust of oyster shells on top. Iteinained aground until the next flood tide, engaged in discharging coal into the gunboats accompanying us. At 1:40, with the assistance of the Commodore Morris, succeeded in getting her afloat. Shortly afterwards, while going down the stream, going very slowly, she grounded again in 11 feet water, but we soon got her off, with the assistance of the Commodore Jones, and anchored. At 3 p. m. we got underway, and with the tugboat Dragon towing alongside proceeded down the river. We arrived at the month of the river at 9 a. m. (September 2). Commodore Harwood here took leave of the vessel, giving me instruc- tions to proceed to my old station, which were executed with due haste, the Commodore Morris towing as far as Fortress Monroe, arriving there after dark Page 331 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 331 I arrived at Newport News on the morning of the 3d at 9 :30 a. rn. and reported. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN WEIDMAN, Lieutenant. Captain (}ANSEYOORT, Senior Officer Present. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Primrose, giving information received from deserters regarding steamers Satellite and Reliance. U. S. S. PRIMROSE, QfT Piney Point, Md., September 4, 1863. Sin: I would respectfully report that as I was on my way down the river this morning, I took off, under a flag of truce, from Mathias Poiut, Va., two deserters from the Patrick flenry (rebel receiving ship on James River) named George Hart and William Murray. They state that they were detached with others to haul the machinery of the Satellite and Reliance from the Rappahannock to Richmond, but on their arrival at Port Royal [Va.] they deserted and that the machinery of the Reliance had been all taken on shore, together with the guns. On Tuesday night three regiments of cavalry and four pieces of artib lery arrived at Port Conway, and on Wednesday morning they opened upon the Satellite, lying a half mile below Port Royal, and just after they (the rebels) had commenced to take the engine apart. They informed me that both the engine and boiler were destroyed, and the vessel greatly damaged by the shot from our battery. There was at the time one guns crew oii the Satellite, bitt they took to the shore. There are but 300 infantry at Port Royal, with three guns taken from the vessels, and to the best of their knowledge there are no batteries on the river below that point. The cavalry were yesterday encamped at King George Court-House. lam, sir, your obedient servant, WM. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander SAMUEL MAGAW, Senior Officer, Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potouac Flotilla, regarding the death of Boatswains Mate Tye. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 5, 1863. SIn: In the capture of the Satellite, which was so discreditable to the service, Jack Tye, boatswains mate, was wounded at his post in the attempt to ring the bell (the signal to go ahead) and has since died of his wounds. He was buried at Point Lookout with the respect due to his long and faithful service and to his reputation as a true seaman. Though beyond the reach either of censure or praise, I have thought it right to do justice to his memory and to express my belief that if there had been a few more of his tried worth on board the Satellite sh Page 332 332 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. would not have been taken. He was considered the best petty officer in the flotilla. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwoon, Hon. Gus. V. Fox, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Secretary of the Nary. Report of Acting Ensign Sommers, U. S. Navy, late U. S. S. Satellite, regarding the capture of that vessel by the enemy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy lard, Washington, September 8, 1863. Siu: Having received permission from the Department to report for examination as an acting ensign, I was examined and passed the board iii February last, on the Potomac River, when I was transferred from the mortar schooner Dan Smith to the U. S. S. Satellite. Between 12 and 1 oclock a. m. on 23d of August last, while lying near the mouth of the ilappahanuock River, our vessel (the Satellite) was boarded by two armed boats numbering 35 men. Before reaching the vessel they were hailed by the officer of the deck (Acting Masters Mate Foulk [Fogg], when he received answer Commodore Morris. Mr. Foulk [Fogg] came forward; calling me he said we were being boarded. I directed him to call all hands to repel boarders, which he did. Imme- diately I seized my cutlass and pistol; II stepped on deck; my attention was attracted to the noise aft. Still, thinking the noise was made by our own men, before I could reach the quarter-deck (in which direction I was going), I received a shot in my neck. The boarders, observing that I was armed, attacked me with their cutlasses, and, being closely pressed, I freely used my pistol as a slung shot, during which time I received three cuts over my arm, when, being overpowered, I was placed in my room with a sentry over me. Just previous to being con- ducted forward I heard the captain surrender the vessel. We were then taken up the river, all under guard, arriving at Urbana about 7 oclock the same morning. Remaining in Urbana three days, I was then paroled and took passage on board the U. S. S. Cnrritnck. Owing to my wounds, the weakness of my condition prevented me from making ami earlier report in writing or person. Hoping the above statement may meet all requirements and give sat- isfaction, I have the honor to remain, sir, most respectfully, your obedi- emit servant, RUDOLPH SOMMERS, Acting Ensign, U. S. Navy. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting list of officers of U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 9, 1863. SIR: In compliance with your letter of the 8th imistant, I enclose a list of the officers belonging to the Reliance and Satellite at the time of - their capture. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant ANDW. A~ HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Acting Secretary of the Navy Page 333 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 333 [Enclosure.] List of the officers attached to the U. S. S. Satellite at date of capture. John F. D. Robinson, acting master, corn- John Mee, acting third assistant engineer. manding. William H. Fogg, acting masters mate. Rudolph Sommers, actin~ ensign, Charles H. MeLellan, acting masters wounded and in Washington. mate, on leave of absence at date of Isaac Johnson, acting second assistant capture. engineer. N. H. Stavey, paymasters steward, dis- Christopher McCormick, acting third charged. assistant engineer. John F. Henry, surgeons steward. List of officers attached to the U. S. S. Reliance at date of capture. Henry Walters, acting ensign, command- Thomas Brown, acting masters mate. ing, wounded and down the river. Samuel Lomax, pilot. James MeCaulley, acting second assist- Henry L. Mangan, paymasters steward ant engineer. Alexander [D.] Renshaw, acting third assistant engineer. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 11, 1863. SIR: You will be pleased to inform the Department who was the executive officer of the U. S. S. Reliance (fourth rate), and designate those who were captured in both the Satellite aiid Reliance. Very respectftilly, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Commodore A. A. HARWoOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. Naval Station, Wa8hington. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, giving name of executive officer of U. S. S. Satellite at time of capture. SEPTEMBER 12, 1863. SIR: In compliance with the directions in the letter of the Depart. ment of the 11th inst., I have to report that at the time of the capture of the Reliance (fourth rate) her executive officer was Acting Masters Mate Thomas Brown. I enclose herewith a duplicate of the list of the officers captured in the Reliance and Satellite, forwarded in flotilla letter No. 323. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOP, Commodore, Commauding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of a board of officers appointed to investigate the facts connected with the loss of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, September 25, 1863. SIR: In accordance with your order to investigate the facts connected with the loss of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance, we beg leave to submit the following report, which, although not complete, is as ful Page 334 334 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. as we are able to make it on account of the absence of many of the officers and men belongiiig to the above vessels, viz: That both vessels were anchored on the night of the 22d August last about the middle of the Rappahannock River, at its mouth, in about 7 fathoms of water, as was the custom at that time, and about 200 yards apart, the third vessel on that station being absent for the purpose of getting coal. The night was dark and stormy; that each vessel was attacked by two boats, containing about twenty men each. The Satellite was surrendered but the Reliance was not, as all the men were either killed or wounded or secured by the boarders, and that the resistance was so great that Lieutenant Wood, the rebel in coin- mand of the boarding party, being apprehensive of a more prolonged strnggle, and seeing that the contest still continned on the Reliance, sent a third boat to assist the two already there. Both vessels were short-handed, but the resistance on board the Sattellite appears to have been very slight, while that of the Reliance was much more prolonged. The enemy gained the deck of the Satellite without firing a shot, but were fired upon from the Reliance at about 30 feet from the vessel. Rebel Lieutenant Woods orders were to board at the bows and shoot down all who were forward, which was done, thus preventing the cable beiiig slipped, as was the standing order on board the Reliance in case of an attack. Acting Ensign Walters, commanding the Reliance, was severely wonnded early in the engagement, but made his way to the pilot house and rang the bell to go ahead and blew the whistle for assistance, not knowing the Satellite was captured. All the enemy who were wounded were those who boarded the Reliance. The orders of the commanding officer of the Reliance from the com- manding officer of the Satellite were to anchor near that vessel during the night. After the capture of the vessels they were taken to Urbana, Va., and after the prisoners were robbed, they were put on shore at that place. The wounded were kindly cared for by persons in Urbana. The vessels under the command of Rebel Lieutenant Wood went down the river for the purpose of capturing the U. S. S. Currituck, but she not making her appearance, they captured three schooners. Hear- ing a heavy force was coming to recapture the vessels they took them up to Port Royal, where they were dismantled. We have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servants, THOS. POYNTON IVES, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, etc. J. II. ELDRIDGE, Acting Master, Commanding. G. E. MCCONNELL, Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Acting Ensign. Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Instructions of the Secretary of the Navy to Rear-Admiral Goldsborough, U. S. Navy, president naval court of enquiry. NAVY DEPARTMENT, October 21, 1863. SIR: Upon the conclusion of the enquiry in which the court of which you are president is now engaged, the court is hereby authorized an Page 335 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 335 directed to take anew the oaths prescribed by law for the purpose of investigating the circumstances attending the capture of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance by rebel forces in the iRappahannock itiver on or about the 22d day of August, in the year 1863. The court will diligently and thoroughly make the enquiry hereby directed, and will report to the Department the material facts which they deem to be established by the evidence; and if in their opinion the facts show negligence or other fault on the part of any person or persons in the naval service the court will report the names of such person or persons and the nature of the misconduct. I transmit herewith, for the information of the court, a lctter,* with enclosure in relation to the capture of the steamers Reliance and Satel- lite, from the commandant of the Potomac Flotilla, dated September 30, 1863. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Ilear-Admiral L. M. GOLDSBOROUGII, U. S. Navy, President Naval Court of Enquiry, Washington, D. C. Findings and opinions of the court of enquiry in the case of the loss of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance. Miaterial facts in the case of the Reliance. The material facts in the case of the capture of the U. S. S. Reliance, which the court deem established by the evidence are: Gim the 17th November, 1862, Commodore ilarwood, commandant of the Potomac Flotilla, received information through the Secretary of the Navy that the rebels designed to surprise and capture some of the United States steamers in the waters of Virginia. On the same date Commodore Harwood caused this information to be transmitted to all commanding officers to be on their guard against surprise, and in addi- tion general instructions were issued to commanding and other officers of the Potomac Flotilla in a printed pamphlet to the same effect. On July 24, 1863, another communication was received from the Navy Department by Commodore ilarwood, informing him that information had reached the War Department through a spy that 500 men were seen at the old church on July 15 with 6 boats on wagons, going, as they said, to surprise gunboats on the Ilappahannock. This information was immediately dispatched by Commodore ilar- wood to Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, senior officer afloat of the flo- tilla, and on the day following sent another order to the same officer, directing word to be sent to the officers commanding the gunboats at the mouth of the IRappahannock to keep within supporting distance of each other and to blockade the river and not to ascend it without his orders. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw acknowledged the receipt of this information, and replied he had sent it to the vessels on the IRappahannock. In addition to these orders, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives, acting fleet captain of the flotilla, during the early part of the month of last August, while at Piney Point, Md., warned officially the commanding officer of the Reliance, Acting Ensign Walters, and the commanding Not found Page 336 336 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. officer of the Satellite, Acting Master Robinson, to be very vigilant and to keep a lookout against those people who they all knew were coming to attack them. This information comniunicated by the War Department was known generally by the officers and men on both of the vessels captured. On the morning of the 23d of August, 1863, about twenty minutes past 1~ oclock, as U. S. steamers Reliance and Satellite lay anchored in 5 fathoms water near the month of the Ilappahannock River, at Butlers Hole, about midway betweeu Windmill and Stingray points and 1~ miles from the nearest land and about 200 yards apart, within hail by the whistle, a party of rebels, consisting of Lieutenant loge and Midshipman Cooke with about 40 men, in 2 boats of ten oars each, double banked, was seen approaching the Reliance at about 75 yards distance by the lookout forward, and were at once hailed by him. They made no answer, but still approached. They were hailed the sec- ond time by the same lookout, and then answered Putnam. The lookout sang out if they approached he would fire npon them. By this time Anthony Spisenger, who was with the lookout aft, and wh owas in charge of the watch, came forward, and when, after being hailed the third time and when about ten yards from the Reliance, he discharged his rifle at them. The lookout, Hand, immediately ran aft, arousing the crew and offi- cers, and crying out Rebel boarders. In the meantime some of the enemy had climbed over the boarding nettings and were on deck, and others were cutting their way through them. A fight here ensued between the boarders and James Watson, Anthony Spisenger, John Hand, and a rebel deserter who stood at the bitts of the cable. Several rifles and pistols were fired by either side and the deserter was wounded. By the time this ended the crew were awakened and on deck. Henry Walters, commander of the Reliance, jumped from his ham- mock, which was swung over the quarter-deck and ran forward and sang out to the man at the bitts to slip the cable. On his way forward he was shot at, but the ball missed him. He received a strokeacross the hand with a cutlass. Not finding the man slipping the cable, who had been wounded, he cried out agaiu to him to slip the cable, when he was again shot at, the ball striking him in the abdomen and passimig out of his back. In a few moments he became exhausted, amid fell or sat on the pilot-house steps, when he determimied to endeavor to blow the whistle for assistance from the Satellite. He did blow the whistle once, when, as he says, he fell exhausted on his knees. In the meantime the emieiny were capturing one by one the crew, and some desultory firing, without order or command, was still carried on by the men of the Reliance. Thomas Brown, acting masters mate amid executive officer, was, in the early part of the attack, awakened, and as soon as lie came out of the cabin went forward on tlme starboard side, passing within 4 or 5 feet of the arms chest without arming himseW until he reached the engine-room door, where he cried out several times to the enemy that he surrendered, iii aking rio resistance at any time during the attack, and surrendering himself when the fightimmg had almost just begun. He was after his surrender placed imi the fire room as a prisoner. Alexander [D.] Renshaw, third assistant engineer, almost immediately upon his awaking, took refuge below the floor of the engine room, where he remained until Daniel J. Cole, a first-class fireman, surrendered, when he came up and also surrendered himself Page 337 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 337 James MeCaulley, second assistant engineer, senior engineer aboard, was not in the engine room dnring the engagement, and is not known to have taken any part in the fight, except perhaps he may have endeavored, with henry L. Nlangan, paymasters steward, to train the qnarter-deck howitzer, nor is henry L. Maiigan known to have taken any other part in the defense of the vessel. While these officers and men were performing the parts just related, the fighting still continued by James Welch, Spisenger, James Row- bottom, and perhaps another, when a third boat of the same size as the first two boarded the Reliance on the port side, being a reenforcement from the enemy. The few remaining untaken men, meeting with this reenforcement and being but two or three, were overpowered, but did not torinally surrender. Resistance being over, the crew were mostly ironed, and the enemy took the positions assigned them, their engineer taking possession of the engine room, their pilot in the pilot house, and qnartermaster at the boxy on the lookout, with spyglass in hand. The wounded, who consisted on the l)art of the Reliance of Henry Walters, acting ensign commanding, the rebel deserter, and James Welch, and on the part of the enemy, Lieutenant loge, Midshipman Cooke, and two of the crew, were all properly cared for. The next morning the two vessels, at 7 oclock, were off Urbana, where the crews of the Reliance aiid Satellite were landed, and with the exception of the wounded were all marched from thence to Richmond. The crew were, in six weeks time, paroled; the officers wh-en last heard from were still in prison. At the time of the surprise, the JIeliance was anchored in about 5 fathoms water, and a mile and a quarter from land. There was plenty of room, so that it was entirely practicable for her to have been under- way all night; but to have kept underway night after night would have been more duty than the short-handed force of the Reliance could have well performed, except as to the engineers, who could have easily kept up their regular watch as when underway. The ordinary watch con- sisted of 5 men. Three were on the lookout at the time and 2 asleep on deck; 1 on the lookout forward and 1 aft with the quartermaster in charge on the quarter-deck. The watch was not armed, although their arms lay convenient to them. There was no one statioimed at the bitts to slip the cable, and the cable was not unshackled, but there was a slip buoy attached. The board- ing nettings were properly spread, and the two guns, a 30-pounder Parrott gun forward and a 24-pounder howitzer aft, were both loaded, but not primed. The arms chest was unlocked. The quarter-deck was not clear; the ship not ready for action. There were four hammocks swung so low on the quarter-deck that they inter- fered with the working of the howitzer. There were also chairs and a table on the elevated platform on which the gun rested, and which pre- vented training of this gun if an opportunity had presented itself for its use. There was no engineer on watch, and Daniel J. Cole, a first-class fireman, who, it was expected by the officers iii charge should rest all night omi a settee in the engine room, was asleep, and to be called by one of the watch when the services of the engine were needed. There were 40 pounds of steam on at the time of the capture, and the ordinary speed under this steam would be about 10 knots an hour. NWRYOLS 2 Page 338 338 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. And finally, that no officer, except the commander, showed any earnest exertion to defend his vessel, and that no authority was assumed by any one in directing a repulse of the enemy. Opinion of the court in the case of the Reliance. The court, after due deliberation, are of opinion: That the primary cause of the loss of the steamer Reliance must be attributed to the ignorance and the want of naval experience on the part of Henry Walters, acting ensign, U. S. Navy, commanding steamer Reliance. It will be obvious to any officer that it would have been almost next to impossible to have boarded either of these steamers while underway, and that while at anchor they were almost entirely at the mercy of the enemy. To have been underway on this occasion, when it was practicable to be doiie, was the first duty of the officers in charge, after having received such intimations of the (lesigns of the enemy as they had. Although the commander of the Reliance says he was ordered to anchor within hail of the AS~atellite, yet, being at anchor, he should have been on that account proportionately more vigilant to prevent surprise in his exposed condition. The most ordinary precautions, which almost common prudence would have dictated, were omitted. With the knowl- edge that the vessels safety depended upon her being underway, the standing order should have been that the first thing to be done was the starting ahead of the engines and the slipping of the cable. Some of the precautions necessary to secure this were neglected. The cable was not unshackled, and no persou was stationed at the bitts to slip it, and the fireman in charge of the engine actually asleep. These neglects not only exhibit a lack of experience and ordinary forecast in the commanding officer, bnt also force upon the mind of the court a deficiency in discipline and organization fatal alike to defense as well as attack. But after the enemy had actually boarded the Reli~ncc, and a dispo- sition was evinced by the crew to repel the enemy, the same inexperi- ence was shown in this officer in repelling the attack. Instead of an organization of the crew, or an attempt at it, which might have succeeded in defeating the assailants, or at all events would have given courage to the crew and resulted in a heavier punishment to the enemy, every one was left to fight for himself. No command was assumed by any one, and the resistance offered was only the result of individual bravery. The court, while pointing out the errors and ignorance of the com- manding officer of the Reliance, do not omit to take into consideration that during the attack he acted with bravery and to the best of his ability, and which in a great measure relieves his want of precaution against surprise from its otherwise inexcusable character and shows that his failure to take them proceeded more from inexperience than negligence. Second. In regard to Thomas Brown, acting masters mate and execu- tive officer, the court find that on the occasion of the capture of the Reliance, and while in action, he displayed cowardice, and pusillani- mously cried for quarter. Third. In regard to James MeCaulley, Secon(1 assistant engineer and in charge of the engine, the court find that at no time during the action was he at his station, nor (lid he manifest any desire to perform his duties as engineer in charge; nor did he offer any zealous resistance to the enemy Page 339 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 339 Fourth. In regard to Alexander [D.] Renshaw, third assistant engi- neer, the court find that in the time of battle he displayed cowardice and withdrew from aiid kept out of danger to which he should have exposed himself, and deserted his station. Fifth. In regardto Henry L. Mangan, paymasters steward, the court find that daring the attack lie did not expose himself to danger or zealously assist in repelling the boarders. Sixth. Iii regard to 1)aniel J. Cole, first-class fireman, the court find that, although he was asleep in the engine room, yet this habit was known t.o and acquiesced in by his superior officers, who required him to take sole charge all night, and day while at anchor, and to stand his regular watch with them while underway, and which are sufficient to exculpate him from any blame. The engineers, in thus throwing their united (luty upon a single subordinate, both behaved indecorously and grossly neglected their duty. Seventh. The court also desire to express their appreciatiou for the bravery and resistance exhibited by Anthony Spisenger, quartermaster; James Welch, landsman; James Watson, boatswains mate; James Itowbottom, landsman, and also by the rebel deserter, who was mor- tally wounded during the action. Material facts in the case of the Satellite. The material facts in the case of the U. S. S. Satellite, which the court deem to be established by the evidence, are: That the orders and instructions of Commodore Jiarwood, and the warnings of an attempt at surprise by the enemy mentioned in the case of the Reliance, were known as well to the officers of the Satellite as to those of the Reliance. That on the morning of the 23d of August, 1863, at about twenty minutes past 12 oclock, while the Satellite lay anchored within ltiO yards of the Reliance, two boats were hailed by the lookout forward (a colored man named Nelson Frazier, a comitraband), on the hurricane deck of the Satellite, aim(l was answered by those in the boats~ Second cutters. The lookout answered, Co me alongside. They were hailed a second time, aimd this was answered by Privateers. In a few minutes the party began boarding the Satellite, and William II. Fogg, acting masters mate, or Rudolph Sommers, acting ensign and executive officer, ran through the gangway crying Boarders. This aroused several of the crew, and by the time they were able to get out of their hammocks several of the enemy had reached the hur- ricane deck, several more were on the forward deck, and three or four entering the gangway at the glass door. At this stage Rudolph Sommers was engaged, without arias, with three or four, until he fell with his wounds, they demanding of him to surrender and he replying he would not. Sommers was wounded severely several times. The boatswains mate was at this time going to the assistance of Sommers and was shot from the upper deck hi the shoulder, from the effects of which he has since died. As soon as the officers ran through the gangway calling Boarders, he went aft to the captains cabin, and told him after he came to the (loor there were boarders. The captain replied to him. Drive them oil, and went back into his room, and closed the door. Mr. Fogg was not seen after this during the engagement, and the captain remained in his room until he was brought out by the enemy Page 340 340 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND EAPPAHANNOCK. In a very short time the portion of the crew who were awake were overpowered. William Bingliani, master-at-arms, as soon as lie was aroused, ran to the armory au(L distributed three pistols, but they ~~ere not capped, and he himself started for the hurricane deck to procure a boarding pike, when, just as his head was above the awning, he received a severe cut from a cutlass which sent him below again. Wil- liam II. Nortliup, gunners mate, was takeit early in the action on the hurricane deck, endeavoring to obtain a pike. Immediately upon their securing a greater portion of the crew, the rebels went to the captaiiis cabin anti demanded of him, with an oath, to surrender. The captain instantly cried out, I surrender. They then opened the door and brought him out, and told him if he did not come out aiid stand on the gun carriage and halloo out he snrrendered the ship, they would blow his brains out. The captain then caine out on the quarter-deck, and cried at the top of his voice I thatj he surrendered the ship. All resistance after this ceased, and the enemy dispatched one of~ the two boats with which they had boarded oft to the Reliance. Isaac Johnson, second assistant engineer and in charge of the engine, came from his cabin, and, when he saw a small colored boy struck on the face with a cutlass and the way they treated Mr. Soinmers, returned to his cabin and remaine(l there inactive nntil the vessel was captured. Christopher McCormick, third assistant engineer, was not seen dur- ing the whole fight. John Mee, third assistant engineer; was on watch at the time, and remained at his station doiiig his duty. The usual watch consisted of two men armed, with bayonets, and the officer of the deck. The watch on this occasion was one colored man, Nelson Frazier, who was stationed as the lookout forward on the hur- ricane deck, and Mr. Fogg, the officer of the deck. Mr. Fogg has been knowim on several occasions to have been asleep on his watch. The Satellite was anchored. The chain was shackled, but a hammer and chisel were near by to drive the l)iu out. No one was stationed near the bitts to slip the cable. There were 20 pounds of steam on at the time of the capture, and it was practicable, so far as the depth of water was concerimed, to have been underway all night. The crew consisted of 6 officers, 2 petty officers, 16 white men, and 8 colom-ed men. Two of the crew were at the time of the capture in irons. The great guns were loaded, and the small arms were loaded, but not capped. Not a shot was fired by the officers or crew of the Satel- lite, and no officer, with the exception of the one who Crie(I out Repel boarders, assumed any control or authority during the attack, nor did anyone encourage the mnemi to fight, except Mr. Sommers, who in his own person set them an example. The wounded on the part of the Satellite were ~i, and 1 killed; on the part of the enemy, none. The attack was a complete surprise, notwithstanding the warnings received, and nothing was in readiness to repel it. Opinion of the court in the cuac of the Satellite. The court, after due deliberation, are of opinion: That the attack upon the steamer Satellite, as in the case of the Reliance, was a complete surprise upon her officers and crew, notwit Page 341 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND BAPPAHANNOCK. 341 standing the orders and intimations of the designs of the enemy they had received. Having received such warnings, and not to have takeii the proper pre- cautions and given the proper orders, exhibit negligence and incapacity. The standing order shoul(l have been, on the hailing of a boat, that the engines should be started and the cable slipped; and the court are of opinion, if this order had been given and the men previously prac- ticed in its execution, that on this occasion both the Satellite and Reliance could have gotten underway before the enemy could have boarded them, and then could have destroyed theni or taken them prisoners. In this case no such order was given; no attempt was made to move; the cable was shackled, not ready for slipping, and no one was stationed at the bitts to do it. The lookout was incompetent and insufficient, and could well, from the number of the crew, have been better and more. So great was the surprise that when the enemy had actually boarded the vessel nothing was in readiness for effectual resistance, and the vessel was surrendered without a shot being fired in its defense. There was no organization, no discipline, and no courage, with one exception, to be mentioned afterwards, displayed by any one of the officers. First. The court find, in regard to John F. D. Robinson, acting mas- ter commanding, iii that he remained in his cabin during the engage- merit after being notified by the acting masters mate of the boarders, that he withdrew from and kept out of danger to which he should have exposed himself and failed to encourage, in his own person, his inferior officers and men to fight courageously. And in that he instantly cried I surrender, without knowing the conditions of affairs, and coming on the quarter-deck and hallooing at the top of his voice [that] he surrendered the ship, he showed cowardice. Second. In regard to Rudolph Sommers, acting ensign and executive officer, the court find that he acted with bravery during the attack and defended the vessel to his utmost. rfllird. In regard to Isaac Johnson, second assistant engineer and in charge of the engine, the court find, in that he caine out of his cabin and returned to it, where he remained during the whole time of the fight, he withdrew from and kept out of danger to which he should have exposed himself, and displayed cowardice. Fourth. In regard to Christopher McCormick, third assistant engineer, the court find that at no time was he seen by any one either at his station or elsewhere, and that he did not expose himself to danger, which it was his duty to encounter. Fifth. In regard to John Mee, third assistant engiiu~er, the court find that he was at his station and did his duty. Sixth. In regard to William II. Fogg, acting masters mate, the court find that on several occasions while in the Rappahannock, and not long pi-evious to the attack, he has slept on his watch; and that on the occa- sion of the capture of the Satellite, after he woke the captain he was 110 more seen. Seventh. The court desire to state that William Biugham, master-at- arms, ammd William R. Northup, gunners mate did their whole duty. It is proper here to state that the court have made up their findings from the testimony of only a part of the crews of the Reliance and Satellite, and the officers, with the exception of Henry Walters, actin Page 342 342 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPALIANNOCK. the Reijance had no o ensign, commanding , pportunity to explain their conduct, as they are still confined in prison in Richmond. JOHN RODGERS, Captain, and President of Court. SAME. L. PHILLIPS, Judge-Adrocate. There being ito further business before them, the court then adjourned sine die. JOHN RODGERS, Captain, and President of Court. SAME. L. PHiLLIPS, Judge-Adrocate. Statement of Acting Ensign Walters, U. S. Navy, late commanding U. S. S. Reliance, regarding the capture of that vessel. NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON December 2, 18G3. SIR: When at the Department on the 23d ult.hno on business respect- ing a leave ot absence it was intimated to mae by Hon. Assistant Secre- tary Fox that I was to be dismissed the service for the loss of the U. S. S. Reliance, under my command, by capture on the Rappahan- nock in Angnst last, notwithstanding that my conduct iii action at the time was highly approved of. The reasons, as given to me in the conversation, for this action were, viz: That I had lost a man-of-war. That the Department did not recog.nize the possibility of a n an-of-war i)eing captured. That there was no vigilance, and that had the Reliance been kept nn(lerway, as should have been the case instea(l of being at anchor the vessel would not have been taken. That when I stated that J was at anchor in obedience to my corn- manding officer (Acting Master Robinson of the & ttellite) and against mimy own judgment, Mr. Fox stated to me that I should have beeim underway notwithstanding. Now, sir, in reply II have to state that, in the first place, although the Reliance was a commissione(l vessel of war, she was a very small tug l)ropeller, with but one serviceable gun (a 24-pounder) mounted aft, and with a crew reduced by promotion and discharge to 10 men forward, and 4 firemen, the officers besides myself being one masters mate and two engineers. Again, that the Reliance was very low in the water, her rail being no higher than a large cutters gunwale, and therefore, with ami enemy well organized, and so greatly outnunibering its, the capture, while lying at anchor, was not a very doubtful venture. Again, iii regard to time vigilance exercised, I have ~he following facts to submit: Ever since I have been in command of the vessel I have faithfully obeyed the printed instructions of the Potomac Flotilla orders, viz, boarding nettings triced up, chain ready to slip, howitzer loaded with cammister, small arms ready in a comivenient place for immediate service, and strict lookouts kept, all of which was done on the night of our disaster Page 343 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 343 The lookouts were vigilant, for though the itight at the precise time of capture was very dark, the boats approaching were seen, hailed, and fired into before arriving alongside. The reason why the chain was not slipped in time is thus accounted for by me: On account of the dark- ness of the uight, the distance of the boats from the vessel when hailed was a very short one; the enemy gave way with surprising speed and at the critical moment the enemy had succeeded iu niortally wounding by iuusket shot the man attemnting to slip the cable. During this time 1 was actively engaged in getting my vessel underway, having, at the first alarm, run forward to the pilot house for that purpose, and while so engaged was shot throngh the body and cut down. My endeavors, however, did not cease entirely even after being wounded, for I suc- ceeded in crawling to the wheel and blowing the whistle for help from the 8atellite, not knowing that she had been captured so quickly. Had the vessel been kept underway at night, as is now the case on the Itappahannock, she could not have been taken. The force of this truth I recognized long before the capture. I knew the weak points in my defense and acted accordingly. On the night previous to the dis- aster I was alone an(l therefore could act on my own judgment. When night set ia, I ordered steam ready and was in the act of heaving np anchor when the Currituck appeared, and I was told to anchor for the night. But, sir, on the night of capture I was ordered by my superior officer, Captain Robinson, to anchor within hail of his steamer, which order I of course had to obey. I regretted this at the time, but as I knew that he ha(I the same information in regard to the enemy that I had, I could l)~Ol)O5O nothing to the contrary. When attacked by the enemy everything possible was done by me and many of my crew to repel successfully their attack. That the resistance, though a futile one, was spirited, is proven by the fact that it was not nntil the third boat sent from the Satellite joined in the attack that my vessel was captured. All the enemy that were hurt received their wounds on the Reliance. Had I not been so completely disabled by gunshot and cutlass wounds, I have reason to believe that the chances of changing our cruel fortune might have been greatly increased. Iii conclusion, I would very respectfully refer to my past conduct as an officer in the U. S. Navy, evidence of which is within reach of the Department, several letters being on file. I entered the service at the outbreak of this rebellion, in May, 1861, attached to the Freeborn, under the late Commander J. H. Ward; was present in all the early actions participated in by him, and was fighting with him when he fell at Mathias Point. Since that time have always continued to be attached to the flotilla, have been well spoken of by every commanding officer under whom 1 have served, and was finally given command of the Reli- auce, as a reward for having saved her from impending shipwreck in time Chesapeake Bay in March last. I would also refer to Commodore Harwood for my conduct since under his command. Every statement made in this communication is a fact of which the proof is at hand. I very respectfully submit the same to your consid- eration, with the firm belief that great injustice would be done me in thins dismissing me [front] the service. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY WALTERS, Actiug Ensign; U. S. Navy. Hoim. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 344 344 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Letter from John McCabe, esi., to the Secretary of the Navy, regarding capture, by a party of Confederates on toard the steamer Satellite, of schooners Coquette and Two Brothers. PHILADELPHIA, September 28, 1863. SIR: Your favor is at hand, and iu reply to your enquiry in regard to the capture of the two schooners Coquette and Two Brothers, I here say: When lying, August 25, 1863, off the mouth of the Rappahannock River, between 6 and 7 fathoms water, about 7 to S oclock in the morning, when the U. S. gunboat Satellite came out to them flying the American colors and hailed them and asked them where they were bound and what was their cargo, they answered, Anchors and chains, and bound for New York. The one in command then said, You are my prisoners and the vessels a prize to the Southern Confederacy, and then took them in tow np the Rappahannock River and landed the two crews and sent them to Richmond, and then took the vessels up the river to land their cargoes. This is as far as I have been able to learn as yet. The value of the two schooners is as follows: Coquette will carry 50 tons and worth $2,000. Two Brothers, 47 tons and worth $1,700, and had in cargo 43,000 weight of anchors and chains in the two, worth $60 a thousand pounds, wholesale price. Schooner Coquette was manned as follows: William Wible, master; Patrick Nagle, Edward Sullivan, Thomas Lahey. Schooner Two Brothers, William Boozby, master; Robert Murdock, Charles Vorger, George ilader. The above I beg leave to subunit to your honor. Yours, respectfully, JOHN MCCABE. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Washington, D. C. Report of Lieutenant Wood, C. S. Navy, of the capture, by a force under his command, of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance, August 23, 1863. C. S. S. SATELLITE, A uf/ust 25, 1863. SIR: I am thankful to report to you the capture last night, off the mouth of the Rappabannock, of the U. S. gunboat Satellite, 2 guns, 40 men; and the Reliance, 2 guns. 40 men. Lieutenant loge dangerously wounded. Midshipman Cooke and 3 men slightly. Captain Walters, of the Reliance, dangerously wounded, and some seven or eight others of the enemy; one or two killed. * * * * * * * Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. TAYLOR WOOD, Lieutenant, Commanding. Hon. S. R. MALLORY, Secretary of the Navy. Detailed report of Lieutenant Wood, C. S. Navy, of the capture, by a force under his command, of the U. S. steamers Satellite and Reliance, and schooners Golden Rod, coquette, and Two Brothers. RICHMOND, September 7, 1868. SIR: I report the return to this place of the party under my com- mand. Leaving on the 12th nltimo with 71 meui and 11 officers, a ceom- panied by four boats mounted on wheels, on the 16th launched them in the Piankatank, 25 miles from its mouth. That night we rowed down to the bay in search of the enemy. Two gunboats were discovered, but underway; the attempt was abandoned Page 345 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 345 iReturning up the river for 2 miles, entered a creek for concealment until night. Soon after daylight a gunboat came lip and sent in live boats. I ordered our boats out of range of her shell, with most of the men nuder Lieutenant loge to defend them and follow the enemy down the creek on their return. I remained at the mouth with ten men, ordering them to keep concealed, but one exposing himself, the enemy opened fire; it was returned, and they were easily driven off, with the loss of their commanding officer and others. Our l)osition being known, moved across to the liappahannock on the 19th, and it was only after three attempts that we succeeded in finding the enemy at imight. On the 23d, 1 a. in., discovered two steamers at anchor off Windmill Point, so close to each other that it was necessary to board both at the same time. Pulling in line ahead until within hailing distance, formed line abreast, boarding them, a boat on each bow. After a short resistance, both vessels were onrs. They were the U. S. S. Satellite, Captain [J. F. D.J Robinson, 2 guns and 40 men, amid the Reliance, Captaiii Walters, 2 guns and 30 men, both belonging to the Potomac Flotilla. In our four boats were 60 men and officers. Getting steam at daylight, ran up to Urbana, landed the prisoners. Communicated with Colonel IRosser, FiftI~ Virginia Cavalry, who kindly furnished a party of 30 sharpshooters, Captain Clay, commanding. Unfortunately both vessels were short of coal, thus preventing the ulterior plan of the expedition from being carried out. It was divided nearly equally between both vessels, and at night we steamed out into the bay. The Reliance, not working well, was ordered back. A fresh breeze from the southward, with rough water, prevented the accom- plishment of anything. The next night the schooners Golden Rod, from Baltimore for Maine with coal, the Coquette and Two Brothers, from Old Point for Philadelphia with anchors and chains, were captured and towed in the river. Filling up with coal, I attempted to run out again, but the weather and a large force of the enemy prevented. The Golden Rod, drawing too much water to go up, was stripped and burned. Time other two were towed up to Port Royal, where both steamers and vessels were stripped and scuttled. While this was being done the enemy from the opposite side shelled the steamers and our position for four hours without injury. Three guns landed from the steamers were in position and replied. Lieutenant Humdgins commanded during the firing. Everything of value except the boilers was landed, the heavy anchors, chains, and bedplates in charge of Master liobb. The 32-pounder was lost overboard. All else was moved to the railroad at Milford, where it was left iii charge of Midshipman Cooke and six mnen. Lieutenant loge was dangerously wounded in boarding the Reliance. Midshipman Cooke was slightly wounded, amid one man (Fitzgerald). Four wounded officers of the enemy were left at Urbana, where the enemy retook them. Two of their men were killed. I respectfully recommend Second Lieutenant loge for promotion to first lieutenant and Midshipmen Gardner and Goodwyn as second lieu- tenants. The other officers of the party were Lieutenant iludgins, Midshipman Cooke, Assistant Surgeoii Sheppardson, Engineers Ten- nent amid Bowman, Boatswain Wilson, Pilot Moore, and Masters Mate Russell, all of whom, as well as the muen, did their duty. Respectfully, etc., your obedient servant, J. TAYLOR WooD. ion. S. iR. MALLORY, Secretary of the Navy Page 346 346 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Joint resolution of thanks to Commander John Taylor Wood and the officers and men under his command, for daring and brilliant conduct. FEBRUARY 15, 1864. Resolved by the Congress of the Confederate A~1tates of America, That the thanks of the Congress of the Confederate States are due, and are hereby tendered, to Commander John Taylor Wood, Confederate States Navy, and to the officers and mcii nnder his command, for the daring and brilliantly execnted plans which resulted in the captnre of the U. S. transport schooner Rlmor,* on the Potomac River; of th eship Alleghany [Alleghanian] t and the U. S. gunboats Satellite and Reliance, and the U. S. transport schooners Golden Rod, Coquette, and Two Broth- ers, on the Chesapeake, and, niore recently, in the capture from under the guns of the enemys works of the U. S. gunboat Underwriter, on the Neuse River, near New Berne, North Carolina, with the officers and crews of the several vessels brought off as prisoners. Approved February 15, 1864. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Rogers, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. schooner William Bacon, to proceed with the vessel under his command to Point Look- out, Md. AUGUST 29, 1863. SIR: On the completion of the repairs upon your vessel you will l)ro- ceed without delay to Point Lookout, Md., and anchor there in a favor- able position to cover the rebel camp at that point. Report to the senior naval officer at that place, or in case you should be the senior naval officer, then place yourself at once in communica- tion with the commanding officer of the post and hold yourself ready to comply with all requests that he makes in the line of your duty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master W. P. RoGERs, Commanding U. S. Schooner William Bacon. Order of the Acting Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, tram smitting information regard- ing cond*tion of gunboats at Point Lookout Md. NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 2, 18G3. SIR: I herewith enclose a conununication dated 1st instant, addressed to this IDepartment by the Secretary of War, in reference to the condi- tion of the gunboats at Point Lookont, and suggesting that a stronger force be stationed there. Please return the conimunication as early as practicable, with such information as will enable the Department to reply to it. Very respectfully, etc., G. V. Fox, Acting Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. ~Seop. 118. tSeep. 137 Page 347 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 347 [Enclosure.] WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, September 1, 1d63. SIR: I send you the following extract from a report made to this Department by Major-General LLitchcock,in relation to the condition of time gunboats at Point Lookout on Sunday last~, and ascertained by him on an inspection of the state of affairs at that post, made under the direction of this Department: There are two gunboats at the point, one with about forty men (as I was informed), the other not half manned ; and neither of them have the use of steam l)ower, one having no enginethe other a wholly disabled engine. I saw three gunboats between the point and Alexandria, but their conditioa is unknown to lee. I beg to suggest that a stronger gunboat force should be stationed at that point, if it should be in the power of your Department to place it there. If it is not, you will please inform me. 1 have the honor to be, your obedient servant. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. lion. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tjlla, regar(ling condition of gunboats off Point Lookout Mid. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 3 1863. SIR: I have your favor of 2d instant, enclosing a communication from the honorable Secretary of War, in regard to the number of gunboats at Point Lookout, iMd. I would respectfully state that on Sunday last I stopped at Point Lookout on my way to the liappahannock River; the gunboats Yankee amid Fuchsia were then anchored off that point. The Yankee has been entirely disabled for nearly three weeks, but I have kept her on the station as 1 was not then able to supply her place, having several vessels of the flotilla under repairs. Owing to the recent occurrences on the liappahannock, I was obliged to take away sonic of the force from Point Lookout to guard that river. On Tuesday the schooner William Bacon was placed in position off the rebel camp at Point Lookout. The vessels now at timat point are the Jacob Bell, Fuchsia, and Free- born, steamers, in good condition, and the mortar schooner William Bacon, the latter carrying four long 32-pounder guns. Yesterday, on my return fromn the Rappahannock, I called upon General Marston, and in a long official conversation that I had with hmini, he seemed perfectly satisfied with the amount and disposition of the naval forces at that point. The senior officer at Point Lookout has the most particular instruc- tions as to vigilance. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Corn manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy Page 348 348 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]Jfagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla o Thomas Freeborn. , f information received from U. S. S. Semiofficial.] U. S. S. DRAGON, Point Lookout, September 3, 18G3p. m. DEAR SiR: No news from the IRappaliannock. I have just arrived. The Freeborn reports that as we caine down in the San gamon the other day she saw some fifty horse, in company with some ox teams, appar- ently transporting heavy guns. You may recollect she was some dis- tance asterii and had the coal schooner in tow. Yours, faithfully, SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant- Commander. Commodore A. A. TIARWOOD, Commanding, etc. P. S.Tlie cavalry and transportation were near Tappahannock, and on that side of the river. S. M. Order of Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla~, to Acting Master Morris, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Cwnr de Lion, enjoining watchfulness in Occoquan River. SEPTEMBER 5, 1863. SIR: I enclose a scrap by which you will perceive that smnggling is reported as going on in the vicinity of Occoquan. You will occasionally look into the month of Occoqnan Bay and be particular as to overhauling all vessels going into that river, seeing their papers, and looking carefully into the character of their cargoes. Enclosed you will find a list of vessels authorized by my perniits to go iuto Occoquan iRiver. No other vessels are permitted to go there, and those having papers are now obliged to renew them every month. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDw. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master W. G. MoRRIs, Commanding Cwur de Lion, and Senior Officer Station A, Potomac River. [Tc1e~ram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 17, 1863. (Received 8:30 p. in.) The following information is derived from the pilot who took Act- ing Master Street up Coan IRiver yesterday, and is transmitted by Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives: There is a company of 100 cavalry at Heathsville, head of Coan Iliver, for the pnrpose of preventing com- munication between the northern neck and the west side of the IRappa- hannock, as the rebels are evacuatiug IRichmond. It is also rumored at Heathsville that a force of rebels is to be crossed over the IRappa- hannock, but for what purpose is not known. The captain of the cav- alry gave the above information to the pilot. He said he had bee Page 349 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 349 forced into the service. No confidence is of course placed in the report as far [as] the evacnation of Richmond is concerned, but that there is a body of cavalry at lleathsville there is no doubt. The object of going up Coan River was to bring off Mr. Gulick, a refugee, which can not at present be effected. ANDW. A. ilARwooD, Commodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding capture of schooner Robert Knowles. SEPTEMBER 17, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith certificate* of capture of the schooner Robert Knowles off Cockpit Point, by the 111. 5. 5. Owur de Lion, for violating the blockade by landing on the Virginia shore and taking on board a person by the name of Robert M. Clarke, supposed to be a blockade runner and mail carrier belonging to Dumfries, Va. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report regarding capture of sloop Music. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 19, 1863. SIR: I enclose for the information of the Depai7tment the report of Acting Master A. J. Frank, commanding the U. S. S. Adolph Hugel, near Alexandria, in regard to the capture of the sloop illiusic for having persons on board without passes. The vessel has been placed in the baiids of the district court and the persons fonud on board turned over to the provost marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwoOD, Commodore Hon. GIDEON WELLES, , Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. ADOLPH HUGEL, Off Alexandria, Va., September 18, 1863. SIR: On the 17th instant, at quarter to 8 oclock p. in., I captured the sloop Music, Captain Hewitt, and J. B. Padgett, belonging to the vessel. The sloop cleared from Georgetown, D. C., on the 10th instant, before I was ordered to the command of this guard vessel, and on her 5Not found Page 350 350 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. return up the river she brought her manifest on board to report. Find- ing that she had more men on board than her manifest certified, and these men being without passes, I therefore detained her. I have sent Prize Master King up with the vessel and all papers. The following men were on l)oard at the time of capture, viz: T. B. Hewitt, captain of vessel; J. B. Padgett, seaman; William P. Drury, Charles W. Drury, Samuel Drury, William Brown, James Hazel, Charles Steward, passengers. These men stated that they had permission from a gunboat near Indian head to laud on the Virginia shore to hunt on the big marsh for game, which they did. Very respectfully, your obedient servant ANDW. J. FRANK, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Acting Master, Commanding. Commodore, Commanding Navy Yard and Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, September 19, 1863. it is reported that some kind of a move is beino made on or near Mathias Point. Examine and report to the Department. GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWOoD, Secretary of the Navy. Commandant Naey Yard, Washington. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 19, 1863. The Wyandank, storeship, passed Mathias Point on the 17th. Saw some pickets about 5 miles above the point. A few shells were fired by her at the point from which the rebels fired at an army transport a short time ago. The Primrose passed Mathias Point just before sunset yesterday. Saw and heard nothing of the movement in that quarter. A dispatch will be sent as soon as I)ossible to make further enquiry. ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Com~nodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary j\TaVy [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 21, 1863. (Received 12: 15 p. in.) Referring to your telegram of 19th instant, directing me to examine into the supposed movement of the rebels on or near Mathias Point, Acting Master Hill, commanding the Dragon, a reliable officer, reports that he engaged a negro living between Boyds Hole and Mathias Point to watch the movements of the enemy. He represents that the force consists of a company commanded by a Captain Todd. This was abou Page 351 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 351 the 17th. It is thought probable that there may be more troops there now. A good lookout is kept at Mathias and Boyds Hole, two vessels being always kept near enough to act together in case of any (lemon- stration by the rebels. Mr. lull states that he has not been able to discover any of the enemy, but that the nature of the ground is such they can erect batteries without being seen from the river. He sug- gests that if a small body of troops, say from 50 to 100 mcii, were sent (lown to him, he could make good use of them as a reconnoitering party without much risk. Further information niay be looked for shortly. ANDW. A. HAItWOOD, Commodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, A~ecretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives, U. S. Nary, fleet captain, Potomac Flotilla, of his return from the Rappahannock River. U. S. S. ELLA, Piney Point, September 20, 1863. Sut: I have ,just returned from the iRappahannock, where I left everything all safe at daylight this morning. 1-Jere I found the Leslie, just arrived from Washington. I went to the Rappahannock yesterday and carried Acting Master Linnekin to join his vessel. I feel safer in that quarter when he is there than with any of the other officers now on that station in charge. Paymaster Carpenter, having completed his labor here, returns by the Leslie to-day. I have transferred Acting Third Assistant Engineer Henry Knight from the Fuehsia to the Currituck. Will you write an order to that effect? Both vessels have three engineers now. I would suggest that the boarding netting of the Yankee can be given to the Freeborn aiid the new kind be fitted for the Yc~nkee while that vessel is at the yard and does not need it. This will give protection to the Freeborn temporarily, until the new ones can be made for her also. After coaling to morrow, I expect to take a run up the river to visit the upper stations. I send up the result of the investigation in regard to the Curritucks officers, and also the result of the investigation called for by Mr. Holmess letter so thr as Acting Master Street is concerned. We shall endeavor to investigate still further into the Holmes case, but it is rather a difficult matter to get at, as the detectives are accused and they are not to be found. I have no further news from the Virginia shore. All the vessels are very much in want of meim. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THOMAS POYNTON EVES. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT. September 23, 1863. Captain Fisher, at Alexandria, has been detailed with fifty men. He goes down in his own boats. Assist him on his arrival at 1\Iathia Page 352 352 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Point, and cooperate with him in the attainment of the object of the expedition. Let the officer going down see Captain Fisher and arrange matters. He will be found to-day at General Slonghs headquarters. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HAnwooD, Commandant of Kavy Yard, Washington. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, September 23, 1863. (Received 4:15 p. in.) The Leslie will go down immediately with orders to the commanders of the gunboats off Mathias Point to cooperate with the movement of Captain Fisher. We have no gunboats here and only the Teaser and Dragon there, but they can be of good service. I have telegraphed to Captain Fisher to confer and arrange matters with Acting Master Hill, of the Dragon. ANDw. A. IIARWOOIJ, Commander. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting information regarding burning qf schooner in Old Haven Greek and grounding of revenue steamer Hercules, September 23, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTiLLA, Navy Yard, Washington, D. C., September 29, 1863. SIR: From a report received yesterday from the Currituck, then at the mouth of the Rappahannock, I learn that a large schooner was run on shore and burned at Old Haven Creek (a place which T can not find on any of the maps, but which I suppose to be Milford Haven Creek), jnst beyond the limits of my command. Acting Master Linnekin represents this schooner as being one loaded with goods from New Yoik, bnt does not give any proof of the accuracy of the statement. He dispatched the Freeborn, commanded @u the absence of Lieutenant Commander Magaw) by Acting Master W. A. Arthur. The report of that officer is herewith enclosed. Acting Master Linnekin also reports that on the 23d instant he sent the Tulip to Wicomico River to assist in getting off the revenue cutter Hercules, which was aground. It appears from the letter of Lieutenant-Commanding John C. Baker of that service (herewith enclosed) that after the Hercules got off the bar she was attacked by a party of rebels and drove theni off. The last clause in Lieutenant Bakers letter I do not understand, as I presume he would be perfectly justifiable in seizing the party who attacked hini if he could come at them. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 353 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 353 [Enclosures.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off Windmill Point, September 23, 18G3. SIR: I sent the Anacostia and the Tulip to the Piankatank this after- noon, to obtain information [in] regard to a schooner that was run on shore at Old Haven Creek, where she was seeii burning at an early hour this morning, it proved to be a large schooner, loaded with goods from New York, for the enemy, name not ascertained. I think most of the goods were burned with the vessel, for I sent the Freeborn there as soon as she was discovered to be on fire. Enclosed is the report of Acting Master William A. Arthur, U. S. S. Freeborn. Acting Master Nelson Provost also brings reliable news that a number of boats are near the Piankatank on wheels, ready to make an attack as soon as any point is left nnguarded. At 4 this morning I dispatched the Tulip to the Wicomico River to assist in getting off one of the revenue vessels that I learned was agronud at that point. Please find eiiclosed a statement of John (3-. Baker, lieutenant, commanding revenue steam er hercules. I beg to enclose a reqnisitioii for revolvers, navy swords, and ammu- nition. Revolvers are what we need very much, for they are about the only arms we can depend upon if the enemy should get alongside. Twelve of the revolvers are for the captains, first spongers, and loaders. In compliance with the Ordnance Ins tructions for the U. S. Navy, three revolvers are required for officers that have never been furnished with arms. Twelve navy swords are needed iu addition to the cutlasses now on board. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~ LINNEKIN, Acting ]ilaster Cofln) Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, , manding. Commanding Potomac Flotilla, N Yard, Washington, 1). (1. [Subenclosures.] U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, Rappahannock hirer, September 23, 1863 SIR: In obedience to your order I proceeded down the bay to tile entrance of Old Haven Creek where the vessel was seen burning. On my way down I spoke the U. S. bark Young Rover, blockading off said station. I enquired what vessel that was on the beach burning. The answer I got was that they did not know what vessel it was. I then ran inshore to within half a mile of the burning vessel, believ- ing her to be a blockade runner. Seeing a large number of men on the beach and some thirty or more boats taking what I supposed to be goods from an inshore channel, I fired three shells among them to pre- vent theni taking the goods from the beach. After dispersing the boats and men I proceeded back to report to the senior officer present, being unable to accomplish anything more, as there was a heavy sea run- ning an(l I could not land iu small boats. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. A. ARTHUR, Acting Master, Commanding. T. J. LINNEKIN, Esq., Acting Master, Commanding, and Senior Offlcer Present, ~y uyo~ 52 Page 354 354 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. U. S. REVENUE STEAMER HERCULES, Great Wicomico River, September 22, 1863. SIR: On Sunday, the 20th instant, as we were steaming down the Great Wicomico River, having been up the river on business relative to a witness in a prize case, we grounded on a sand bar. On Monday evening after dark we got off. it being too dark to come down the river that night, in consequence of a difficult channel, I was compelled to wait till morning. Anticipating an attack from a party on shore, every precaution was made to repel it. Everything remained quiet till about 4:30 on Tuesday morning, whenwe then lying about 60 or 70 yards from the shorea party on shore opened fire upon us, appar- ently with rifles, to which we immediately replied, having detached a portion of the crew for that purpose. After the first volley from the steamer the rebels retreated behind an embankment. We hove up anchor immediately in order to bring our rifled gun to bear, the enemy, in the meantime keeping np a rapid fire, the most of their balls going a foot or two above our heads. As soon as we brought our rifled gun to bear upon them and gave them a shot, they retreated to the woods. After waiting some time for another sight of them, I l)roceeded to ascertain the names of the lead- ers of the party, a list of whom I give below: Washington Corbin, captain; John Harding, Jr., Lucius Harding, James Kent, Carter, Hurdlen, Farren, Hurst. The rest were cavalrymen, and I am told were a portion of the party that captured the Satellite and Reliance. Having no authority to seek redress from the party who attacked us. I submit the above report to you. JOHN G. BAKER, Lieutenant, Commanding. COMMANDER OF THE U. S. NAVAL STEAMER TULIP. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding reconnoissances at Boyds Hole and ill athias Point, Va., September 23, 1863. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 26, 1863. SIR: The Dragon,Acting Master G.E. Hill,returned to the yard this morning. Mr. Hill reports that on Wednesday evening, the 23d instant, he landed fifty men, belonging to the First District of Columbia Yolun- teers, commanded by Captain [Marvin P.] Fisher, U. S. Army, at Boyds Hole, in a large launch belonging to the flotilla, under charge of Acting Ensign Benjamin, of the Resolute. There are no batteries in construction at Boyds Hole, but good nat- ural formation in two or three places for field batteries. Captain Fisher reconnoitered for 2 miles in the interior without seeing any rebels; they had, how ever, been there in small squads, according to report. On the morning of the 24th Acting Master Hill landed the same party at Mathias Point. Here there were more evidences of the enemys having been about, and for 3 miles in the interior to which the recon- noisance extended, there were traces of quite a number of cavalry which had been divided into small squads. This party,to all appearance, has its rendezvous at Port Conway, on the Illappahannock, from which the distance across the peninsula is short Page 355 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 355 Other squads were heard of, one commanded by a Captain Boyce and another by Captain Todd. There are no signs of recent batteries on Mathias Point. The old trenches dug at the commencement of the rebellion remain and might be used for light fieldpieces, as in the case of the army transport which got aground at Cedar Point and was fired at from these trenches some weeks ago. Such batteries, however, disappear immediately on the approach of the gunboats. Captain Fisher destroyed some old shanties and barns which had been used as quarters for blockade rnnners and scouts, and the party also destroyed several scows and canoes which had been hauled up into the woods. The cavalry force which has made its appearance in various places on the peninsula is, I think, piincipally occupied in preventing the escape of candidates for the rebel conscription. I have the honor to be,with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. JIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomci~ Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Ives, U. S. Navy, fleet captain, for the removal of the family of Mr. G. Starrett. SEPTEMBER 24, 1863. SIR: By order of the Secretary of the Navy (at the instance of the President of the United States), the family, friends, and such of the effects as can be removed without unnecessary risk or delay, are to be brought away from Carters wharf on the liappahannock. As it is understood that the ground in this neighborhood is not of a char- acter to render the approach particularly hazardous, it is only necessary to add, that I confide in your known discretion to effect the removal at the proper time and with adequate means, taking care to cover the embarkation with the guns of the boats employed, and to effect the removal in a safe and systematic manner. Mr. Starrett and Mr. (lulick will go with the party and can describe the locality. It will be better to be abreast of the wharf at daylight to prevent information reachiig the enemy in time to oppose any obstacles. Very respectfully; your obedient servant, ANDW. A. ilARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant T. POYNTON IVES, Fleet Captain, Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the removal of the family of Mr. U. Starrett. SEPTEMBER 29, 1863. SIR: Iii accordance with your instructions of 24th instant, made upon the recommendation of his Excellency the President of the Unite Page 356 356 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. States, to remove the family and friends of Mr. 0-. Starrett from Vir- ginia, I have to report that the order was successfully complied with on the 26th instant. The party and such of their effects as could conveniently be moved were takeu from Carters wharf, on the litappahannock River, and landed without accident at Point Lookout, Md. Their oaths of alle- giance are now on tile at this office. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. IJARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding deserters from the Army of the Potomac. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 26, 1863. SIR: Acting Ensign Brh~e, having beeu instructed by me to cruise in the Wyandank between Indian Head and the Chicoinuxen River [Creek], to prevent the crossing of deserters from the Army of the Potomac, landed near Shipping Point, Va., on the 24th instant, and destroyed one small boat and raft supposed to be used by deserters in crossing the river. Instructions have been given to the officers of the flotilla generally to be on the lookout for deserters, and to destroy the means they use for crossing the river wherever fonnd. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Coin manding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Instructions of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, appointed to command Second Division pro tem. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 28, 1863. SIR: You will take passage in the Robert Leslie, Acting Master Ben- jamin S.] Magar, and proceed without delay to the Lower Potomac, and when you fall in with Acting Volunteer Lieutenant T. Poynton Ives, hand him the dispatches intrusted to your care, and take corn- inand of the First [Second] Division of the Potomac Flotilla until regularly relieved. You will for the present assume command of the Freeborn. 1 wish you to make yourself intimately acqnainted with the position of aiThirs at Point Lookout, and the month of the Itappahannock espe- cially, aiid to see that the blockade is strictly and vigilantly preserved. For the present no expeditions up the river and no landing on the rebel shore are permitted unless specially authorized by me Page 357 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 357 You will take care to keel) inc frequently advised of the movements of the division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. IIARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding 1~otomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant E. 1IOOIiER~ Commanding First [Second] Division Potomac Flotilla pro tern. Order of Commodore liar wood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, enjoining vigilance against attack in Piankatank River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, September 30, 1863. SIR: From information received at this office through Acting Master Nelson Provost, commanding the U. S. S. Anacostia, there is reason to believe that a number of boats are near the Piankatank River on wheels, and ready to make an attack as soon as any vessel appears to be oft her guard. I hope I need give no further orders to inspire vigilance. You caii not hazard your men by landing to look for these boats, but you may possibly catch them by decoy. I rely upon your judgment and skill as a seaman to prevent any further success on the part of these marauders. The Department has assigned you the command of the Currituck. You will therefore direct Acting Master W. II. Smith to assume the command of the Thomas Freeborn. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HAUWOOD, Commodore, etc. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lientenaut IJooA-er, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, regarding use of hand grenades. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, September 30, 1863. SIR: You will distribute the hand grenades which I forward by the King Philip this day among time vessels of the ilotilla at the mouth of the Rappahannock River all(l other places where you deem it advisable, to be used to repel boarders by throwing them in the boats of the enemy shonld you be attacked. Great care must be taken in handling this species of ammunition so as to avoid accidents, and iii the stowage of the same care must also be taken to preserve them from injury by dampimess. Enclosed you will find printed instructions for their nse, which you will carefully read and send copy to those who are to use them. Very respectfully, etc., ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla Page 358 358 OPERATIONS ON TH1~ POTOMAC AND RAPPAIIANNOCK. Letter from Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U. S. Navy, commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, regarding burning of large schooner by Confederates. OCTOBER 1, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith the copy of a Ietter* from Acting Master William A. Arthur to Acting Master Liiiiiekin, in reference to the recent burning of a large schooner by the rebels at Milford Haven (called 01(1 Haven). I have reason to believe that the schooner was not a blockade runner, as surmised by Mr. Arthur, but a vessel captured by the rebels in the bay, run on shore and set fire to after a small portion of the cargo had been landed, to prevent her recapture and the recovery of the goods by the gunboats. I have reliable news that a number of boats are near the Piankatank on wheels, ready to put out and make captures on the bay whenever they discover vessels unprotected by gunboats. I write this in order that the senior officer of the division nearest the line which divides our respective commands may be on the alert, and beg leave to suggest that a vigilant, prudent, and enterprising officer would be of great use there at present. Quite an important portion of the vessels of the Potomac Flotilla is at present out of repair, but I hope in a few days to render the region of the Rappahannock more secure. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARwoon, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Itear-Admiral S. P. LEE, U. S. Navy, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Hampton Roads, Va. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Wavy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding information given by five deserters from the Confederate Army. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla~, October 1, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 30th of September I received on board this ship five deserters froni the rebel Army, who came to me in a canoe. Their names are James Engram, William J. Dudley, James iR. Foster, Robert Yates, and George D. Shrieves, resi- deiits of Middlesex County, Va., and members of Companies H and I, Fifty-fifth Virginia Regiment, A. P. Hills corps of Lees army. I have administered the oath of allegiance and delivered them to the provost-marshal of Point Lockout. They state they left their regiment, then encamped about 3 miles from Orange Court-House, on Sunday, September 20; that Hills corps was on the south side of the liapidan, the maui body of the Army near Chancellorsvil]e; pickets on Robertson River about 3 miles north of the Rapidan, and a small body of cavalry at Fredericksburg. That the engine of the Reliance has been removed to Richmond, and put on board an ironclad building there, but was not powerful enough for effective service. See p. 353 Page 359 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 359 That there is at Richmond one ironclad, mounting six guns, corn- pleted, and two others nearly so; that the completed one had been tested under its batteries, and found invulnerable, and that she has a 100-pounder Parrott rifle as a part of her armaiient. They assert the destruction of tile two gunboats captured, and that Lieutenaiit Wood is now in this region, where, they do not know, but believe him to be among the creeks below the Piankatank, and that lie has cal)tured two or three small vessels since the one burned by him a few mornings since. Also that his I)urpose is to make another attack upon the blockading fleet. This information they obtained from persons living near tile Piankatank, through which region they passed the day previous to the one on which they caine on board my ship. Very respectfully, your ol)edient servant, EDWARD JIOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lieut., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 1st ~2d] Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARwooD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla and Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. General report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. FREEBORN, Potomac Flotilla, off Point Lookout, October 5, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report, in reference to your communication of September 30, referring to boats of the enemy, etc., permit me to say, I shall use every endeavor to prevent surprise, and will also emideavor to capture or destroy the enemy should he attempt an attack. I have information, how credible I can not say, of a party with boats between the 1-tappahannock and Potomac, and that they are endeavoring to pass out of some of the creeks for the purpose of making captures in the bay; whether the same party before reported below the Piankatank I am uninformed. At Point Lookout there is much anxiety about the light-ship off Smiths Point, caused by reports of refugees and contrabands; the same feeling is prevalent at Piney Point. I shall keep a vessel cruising near the light-ship. I had intended to return the Resolute to her station on the Potomac before the dark of the moon, but with my present information shall retain her for a picket boat ou the liappahannock. I find considerable anxiety at I oint Lookout about the prisoners, to whom several hundred were added a day or two since. I have directed that one, at least, of the gunboats there keep underway at nights. I have also information that one Itoebrick is very active in running the blockade from St. Georges Island. I have notified the commanding officer of the Primrose of it, and he will look after it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lieut., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. IlARwoon, Commanding Potomac Flotilla (mfld Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. P. 5.I shall cruise to-night off the light-ship m~lt; and go to the Rappahannock to-morrow morning Page 360 360 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCR. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. 8. Nary, commanding Potomac Plo- tilla, regarding signaling by the enemy between iliathias Point, Va., and the Maryland shore. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Nary Yard, Washington, October 10, 1863. SIR: The Dragon, which caine to the yard to-day for coal, brings the following information: On the 7th instant Acting Master lull observed signaling from Mathias Point and from the Maryland shore. He dropped quietly down in company with the Teaser near and above the point, and found that signals were shown from several different places and answered on the Maryland side. The lights were red, white, and green, and as it was reported that the rebels had a small signal corps at Mathias Point, it is probable that the party operating was the same. Mr. Hill thoroughly shelled the woods, and there has been iio signaling observed since. Mr. Hill, in accordance with my general instructions for the vessels of the flotilla to confine their operations on the Maryland side to the water, notified the provost-marshal of the district, including Popes Creek, Port Tobacco Creek [Iliveri, and Upper Cedar Point, that he had received very reliable information that blockade runners, mail carriers, an(l other disloyal persons made their rendezvous in the neighborhood. He replied that he had no force to arrest them, and before it could be done he would have to send to Washington or Baltimore for a force. The provost-marshal was confined to his bed by sickness. Under the present circumstances it is, in my opinion, important that there should be a sufficient force at hand to meet these occasions. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report regarding the unprotected condition of the east- ern shore of Virginia. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy lar(l, Washington, October 10, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith a copy of a letter from Acting Rear-Admiral Lee in answer to some information recently sent by me in relation to the movements in the neighborhood of the Piankatank River. I would beg leave to draw the attention of the Department to the eastern shore of Yirginia as being neither within the jurisdiction of Acting Rear-Admiral Lee nor of myself. in fact, having the guard of the paroled prisoners at Point Lookout and the blockade of the Pian- katank and liappahannock rivers, I can not at l)resemlt spare more than one of the sailing schooners to guard the easterim shore. The William Bacon will be ready soon for service and can be sent there if the 1)epartmnent approves. I have tIme honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Connnodore, (1omnm ancling Potomac Flotilla. Homi. GiDEoN WELLES, eeretary of the Nary Page 361 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 361 [Enclosure.] U. S. FLAGSHIP MINNESOTA, Ofl~ Newport Aews, Va., October 8 1863 COMMODORE: I have duly received your letters of October 1 and 5, an(l thank you for the information they contain. The attention of the senior officer of this squadron in Chesapeake Bay (Lieutenant-Commander J. II. Gillis) has been called to your sug- oestions, and he has been required to see that all due vigilance is exercised. Measures will be taken to destroy the boats on wheels about the Piankatank, if I)ossible. Before the receipt of your letter of the 1st, the operations in and outside of the bay of a party of rebels from Mathews County had been reported to me, and these reports have been confirmed by the Richmond papers. They captured and turned adrift several schooners on the Atlantic side of the eastern shore and returned in one to Milford Haven, where on being pressed by a blockader (probably from the Potomac Flotilla), she was run ashore and burned, as you state. I would observe that neither the Piankatank nor the eastern shore, under my ii~strnctioiis,is included within the limits of this squadron, whose blockade begins from the south side of the Piankatank. I! have got all the force I can possibly spare for that purpose in the Chesapeake, including some vessels sadly in need of repairs. We arc very weak on this, as indeed on all other parts of the blockade. I have the honor to be, respectfully, yours, S. P. LEE, A eting Rear-Admiral, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron. Commodore A. A. HAnwooD, Commanding Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Letter from the Secretary of the Nary to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the eastern shore of Virginia. NAVY DEPARTMENT October 14, 1863. SIR: I have received your No. 356, and have instructed Acting Rear- Admiral Lee to consider the eastern shore of Virginia as within the limits of his command. Very respectfully, etc., (ThEoN WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, etc., Washington. Report of Lieutenant- Commander ]llagaw, U. S. Navy, commanding First Dir ision Potomac Flotilla, transmitting weekly statement of location of vessels. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Point Lookout, Md., October 11, 1863. Sin: 1 respectfully enclose the report of stations (I or the coming week) of vessels of the flotilla Page 362 3~32 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Everything is going oii well, exce1)t we have hardly a sufficient imm- ber of vessels to guard the 1~otoinac strictly. Four are required oii Station H, two at Point Lookout, which leaves some of the stations almost unwatched. I have the honor to be your servant, etc.. SAME. MAt~AW, Licuten ant- Commander. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosure.] Weekly report of the location of the vessels of the First and Second Divisions of the Potomac Flotilla, Commodore A. A. ilarwood, commanding, for the week ending (Sunday) Octo- ber 11, 1863. Name. Station. Remarks. Mortar A. Hugel (guard) ... For the week ending October 19, 1863. Teaser Dragon (keur do Lion Primrose 5ophronia (guard) Freeborn Jacob Bell Currituck Anacostia Fuchsia Resolute Yankee Tulip Bacon commodore iiea(l Wyandauk Distributing stores. No vessel on station I) or F, but thc Primrose will cruise up F and the Cmur do Lion down P daily. List of stations. Station AAlexandria to Indian Hem]. Station B.Indian Head to Liverpool Point. Station CLiverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D.Popes Creek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station 1KBretous Bay to St. Georges Island. Station G.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point, Virginia. Station 11.Smiths Point to south entrance of the Piankataiik, including that river as well as the Rappahannock. S. MAGAW. Report of Commodore Haruood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting report of movements in the Piankatank River, Vir. gtnta. POTOMAC FLOTiLLA, Navy Yard, Washington, October 12, 1863. SIR: From Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker I have advices from the Lower Potomac up to the 9th illstant. It seems that many refugees are now making their way from Virginia, mostly women and children, the meu having been either drafted or forced to go into the rebel Army, thus leaving the remainder of the populatiou on the northern neck almost, and in some instances, [entirely], destitute and at the mercy of the conscription officers, from whom suspected per- sons are receiving grievous misusage. A A and B C C F F G CT H H H H Nay yard... 00 do At large Page 363 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. - 363 Several women and children have come out to our gunboats and have been turned over to the provost-marshal at Point Lookout by Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker. I enclose a copy of a letter received yesterday from Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker. The firing, I presume, was from the expedition sent to destroy the boats on wheels below the mouth of the Piankatank. I have the honor to be with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. [EnclosureM.] U. S. S. CrniiuITUcK, Rajypahannock River, October 7, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that I arrived here yesterday (Octo- ber 6), and, in accordai~cc with your orders, assnmed the command of the ship. Acting Master Provost makes a verbal report to me that on Monday three steamersone a transport and the others gunboatscame up from the bay below to where the Young Rover is stationed; that one of the gunboats and the transport subsequently entered Piankatank. A gnu was soon afterwards fired by them, when the remaining gunboat (a frrryboat) returned down the bay. During the night heavy firing was heard in the direction of the creeks below the Piankatank. At the same time an unusual amount of signalizing was going on upon the banks of this river, which was, however, soon stopped by a few shells from the Anacostia. For the past few nights I have kept a vessel near the light-ship, which is but poorly protected, having no arms for her own crew and a guard of only seven soldiers. The remaining vessels I keep underway. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lient., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 3d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARwOOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. CURIIITUCK, Rap pahannock River, October 9, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that last night about dusk a Mrs. Smith, with three small children and her brother, a lad of about 15 years, came alongside the Resolute and were received on board. As the Resolute was detailed to cruise near the light-ship last night, I ordered her to proceed to Point Lookout this morning and deliver the refugees to the provost-marshal at that point, which she did, also com- municating with Lieutenant-Commander Magaw, and bringing back dispatches from you. Also, that this morning soon after daylight a Mrs. Morse, of Carters wharf with four small children, came alongside the Tulip and were received on board. I send them to the point by the Tulip, which goes up to-night in accordance with orders. Both these women represent that their husbands were forced to leave their homes at the first outbreak of the war, and that they had remained Page 364 364 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. hoping to hold their property, but are now obliged to relinquish it on account of apprehended maltreatment by detectives looking after con- scripts, deserters, and the property of Union persons, from whom they state suspected persons are receiving grievous misusage. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD 11o ERR, Actg. Vol. Lient., U. S. Navy, (]omdg. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Secon(l Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding schooner George Wash- ington, of Baltimore. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Rappahannock River, October 9, 1863. SIR: I have also to report that this afternoon a schooner was discov- ered entering this river having on a deck load of wood. I got underway, and bringitig her under my guns boarded her. She proved to be the George Washington, of Baltin~ore, loaded with wood for the quartermasters department at Fortress Monroe, and claimed to have come in for a harbor. The weather being fine, the wind light, and water smooth, and no necessity that I could discern for making a harbor, I ordered her away, and sent the Resolute to see her out of the river. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lient., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 2d Dir. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report .~f Acting Master Street, U. S. Yavy, commanding U. S. S. Fuchsia, of boat expedition to Windmill Point, Va. U. S. S. FUCHSIA, Station fi, off Windmill Point, Va., October 12, 1863. Sii~: I would respectfully report that I to-day, in company with Acting Master [James C.] Tole, of the Resolute,landed oiz~ Windmill Point, Va., with two armed boats crews, for the purpose of ascertain- ing if there were any armed forces at or near this place, as well as to fiuid out from citizens on shore, whom I knew, if any boats had entered the various creeks above this point recently. carrying contraband goods, as I was informed yesterday by the captain of a schooner who came in for a harbor that he saw a boat standing out of Fleets Bay and across the Chesapeake in the morning. Taking with me as a guide W. C. Ingram, I proceeded about l~ miles inland, visiting several houses and learned that there were no rebel forces in the county, nor had there been any for a long time. I was informed that small boats did fre- quently enter the creeks out of Fleets Bay, of which there are four. I believe, sir, it would be of vast importance to the Government to have a vessel stationed in the above bay, not only to prevent smuggling, bu Page 365 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 365 to break up a long-existing communication between the eastern and western shores of the Chesapeake Bay, and also that a frequent coin- inunication on shore under the charge of a discreet officer would lead to important results. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, WM. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Acting Master N. PROVOST, Commanding U. S. S. Anacostia and Senior Officer Present. Letter from provost-marshal-general of Maryland to Commodore liar- wood, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding shipment of cattle for use of the Confederate A rmy. BALTIMORE, October 17, 1863. SIR: I have received the following information which I believe to be reliable: Cattle are being taken from the northern neck of Virginia and shipped from Union wharf and Rappahannock Ferry in liatboats to Tappahannock for the rebel Army. About 100 soldiers of the rebel Army in Federal uniforms are at Nomini Creek, on the Potomac, surveying the creek for some Purl)ose; it is thought by my informant that they have designs on some of our gunboats. In Westinoreland County a company of home guards are enforcing the rebel conscription and sending them to Warsaw, Richmond County, for transportation to Richmond City, via Tappahannock Ferry. Henry Taylor, of Oak Grove, Westmoreland County, commands this company. The following men living near Warsaw Court-House, engaged in enforcing the conscription, are rebels who should be attended to: James Garland, Benjamin Powell, Ijams Montgomery, letho Mont- gomery, Judson Montgomery (a paroled prisoner), Wensel Clark, Dr. Pendleton (clerk of court at Warsaw Court-House), Leinuel Bell (a lawyer), and John Braxton, a rebel guide. The following Union men may be found in same vicinity: 11. B. Stew- art, 3 miles east of Warsaw; Jacob Gardy, James Gallagher (a little Irishman), and Daniel Garland. All may be used confidentially. Hoping this information may be useftil, I remain, yours, etc., J. L. MCPHAIL, Provost-Marshal- General, State of Maryland. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Wavy Yard, Washington, D. C. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, regarding condition of affairs in the Potomac River. COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, October 19, 1863. SIR: In relation to the movements of the flotilla for the past week I have only to report that Lieutenant-Comnmanider Magaw writes on the Thth instant: I~o sign of an enemy along the line and little [or] no blockade running. A few nights ago the Cenr de Lion found a couple of trunks containing womens clothimig (mourning), made up. They ar Page 366 366 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. not of sufficient value to pay the cost of adjudication, but will be sent to the yard and stored uiitiL it shall l)e determined what is to be done in this and similar cases. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. IJARwoOP, Commodore, Cornmanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commandinq Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting weekly statement of location of vessels of the Second Division. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Nauy Yard, Washington, October 21, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith a copy of the weekly report of the location of the Second Division of the Potomac Flotilla (that of the First Division has not reached me). Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hookers letter accompanying the report contains no material intelligence except that the Resolute, Acting Mas- ter Tole, ran aground on the 14th instant and remained in that situation for more than three tides. The force of three steamers was required to get her off, in doing which the Resolute was much strained and is leak- ing badly. Further particulars will be forwarded to the Department as soon as the result of the survey and board of enquiry ordered in the case shall be received. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Cornmanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Weekly report of Ihe location of the vessels of the Second Division of the Potomac Flotilla, Commodore A. 1. Barwood, commanding, for the week ending Saturday, October 17, 1863. Name. Station. Remarks. currituck H coaled first part of the week. Anacostia H will coal next week. Fuclisia H Coaled middle of week and will coal again next week. Resolute H coaling and aground nearly all the week. Jacob Bell G On guard at Point Lookout. Thomas Freeborn G Do. Sophrouia F Guard ship at Piney Point. List of stations. Station A.Ale~andria to Indian Head. Station B.Iudian Head to Liverpool Point. Station C.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D.Popes Creek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretous Bay to St. Georges Island. Station G.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point, virginia. Station HSmiths Point to south entrance of the Piankatank, including that river as ~vel1 as the Rappahannock. EDW. HOOKER, Acting 17olnnteer Lieutenant, U. S. Nary, Comdg. Second Divisio Potomac Flotilla Page 367 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 367 Weekly report of the location of the vessel8 of the [Firat] Division of the Potomac Flotilla, Commodore A. A. Barwood, commanding, for the week ending Monday, October 19, 1863. Name. Station. Remarks. A. Tingel (guard) A Teaser B and C Dragon c CmurdeLion D Primrose B and F Sophronia (guard) F Freeborn G Point Lookout. Resolute Do. Currituck H Anacostia H Fuchsia H Yankee At the yard Under repair. Jacob Bell do Repair to rudder. Tulip do Steam drum being fitted. William Bacon do Wyandank At large After distributing stores, Station A. Commodore Read do Do. Owing to the small force we have at present afloat this is the best distribution I can make. List of stations. Station A.Alexandria to Indian Head. Station B.Indian Head to Liverpool Point. Station C.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D.Popes Creek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretons Bay to St. Georges Island. Station G.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point, Yirginia. Station HSmiths Point to south entrance of the Piankatank, including that river, as well as the Rappahannock. Respectfully, etc., SAMUEL MAGAW, Lieutenant. Commander. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore iliarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. KAvv DEPARTMENT, October 23, 1863. SIR: A report every fortnight of the locations of the vessels of the Potomac Flotilla will be sufficient for the Departments use. Yery~ respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HA~woon, Commandant, Navy Yard, Washington. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture of steamer Three Brothers. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, October 24, 1863. SIR: Herewith enclosed you will find certificate of capture of the stern-wheel steamer Three Brothers, made on the 21st instant by the U. S. steamers Currituck all(l Fuchsia, for violating the blockade of the Rappahannock River, under pretense of making a harbor Page 368 368 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAO AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The vessel and crew have been placed in the hands of the prize commissioners. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Comm o(lore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla. (7ert if cc te of capture. Name and character of the prizeStern-wheel steamer Three Brothers. Crew: Frank Shannon, captain; Charles Early, mate; John Lynch, engineer; John Smith, deck hand; William Butler (colored), steward; John Lewis (colored), fireman. By whom and by what vessel capture made.Currituck and Fuchsia. When capture made.October 21, 1863. Where and for what reasons.ltappahannock River, Virginia; for want of proper papers aimd suspicious movements. The cargo, ~f any on board.None. What papers found.No. 4, license; No. 3, enrollment; No. 6, Poto- mac pass to New York; No. 5, manifest; No. 1, watch bill suggestive of military organization; No. 2, letter from A. Leary, New York, to Capiain Shannon. Remarks .T his vessel was seen coming into the mouth of Rappahan- nock iRiver this p. m. nuder pretense of a harbor. The captain states that he cleared from Washington for New York, but had lost his clear- ance and manifest, and was now bound to Hampton Roads. Having no permit or clearance for that place, and being entirely out of his course for New York, which would be by way of canals, etc.,Jhave i~ade the seizure. Since these papers were filled out, the captain has produced a manifest and clearance for New York. OCTOBER 21, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned stern-wheel steamer Three Brothers was captured by the undersigned, ~onimnanding the U. S. S. Currituck, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and place above desig- miated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every par- ticular. EDWARD HODKER, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, U. S. N Report of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting report of Confrderate movements on the peninsula. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, October 31, 1863. SIR: I enclose herewith a copy of the report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Edward Hooker, containing information of the position of parties of the rebel cavalry on the peuinsnla, and of other movements which the Departmeiit should know. As the Department some time since directed that no force should go up the IRappahannock without its sanction, I beg~ leave to refer to its consideration the proposition of 4~ting Volunteer Lieutenant hooker Page 369 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 369 to examine the creek iiear the Piankatank for boats. He is a judicious officer, and I think may be trusted to make a recomnoissance, at least to ascertain the 1)ositiOn of Lieutenant Woods boat. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. 11011. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Nary J)epartment. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off Point Lookout, October 28, 1863. SIR: I have information from Toins Key [Totouskey] Bridge, J~ich- mond County, Va., to 3 a. m. the 27th instant. At that time the bridge was the headquarters of 200 cavalry, under a Captain Eastman (and it was believed that there were others near there). From thence they sent out detachments to different l)Oints upon the peninsula. From other sources I am informed that a party of them were at Smiths Point light-house a few days since. Corning np from Station H, I visited Fresleys [Presleys] Creek (across from Point Lookout), in quest of a blockade runner who I had reason to believe was there, and learned that a squad of twelve or more of the cavalry were at that l)Oint a few hours 1)reviously. I have information also of a small body of cavalry south of the flap- pahannock, whose scouting extends to the peninsula between the itappa- hannock and Piankatank rivers. The ostensible purpose is conscripting and deserter hunting. For- aging may be included, although I have not learned that they have practice(I it as yet. I can not thi~nk this of importance enough to employ so large a body of men in a region so depleted, and opine that it may be to cover another aquatic raid, the point to be the upper Potomac or possibly through Coan River to Point Lookout. I can learn nothing definite of the whereabouts of Lieutenant Wood and party, but have reason to believe that a part of his boats are secured at or near Slums Creek (F think it is called), off the Piankatank. I would like to examine that creek for them. I learn, further, that the mail communications in Virginia are stopl)ed by orders from Richmond; also a rumor that large bodies of troops are passing through Richmond southward. Very respectfully, your obedient servaiit, EDWARD HOOKER, Acty. Vol. Lient., U. S. Navy, Corn dy. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Fuchsia, of the capture of two blockade runners and contraband goods. U. S. S. FUCUSIA, Rappahannock River, Virginia, October 31, 1863. SIR: I would respectfully report that I last night arrested two block- ade runners at the house of Mr. Lee, living on Diamond [Diiners ~] Creek, N W RYOL 52 Page 370 370 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. named Edward Thornton and Robert Taylor, both residents of Acco- mac County, Va., eastern shore. I also seized a large canoe, with two sails, belonging to the above. On searching the house, a box of mcdi- cines, 2 pieces of cloth, 4 hats, 2 barrels and 2 sacks of salt [werej found. Mr. Lee is a regular dealer in blockade goods, and acknowledged to having sold a large quantity but a few days before. Mr. [Eli D.I Edmunds, of the Anacostia, with a boats crew, accom- panied me. Very respectfully, Wiw. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Acting Volunteer [Lieutenant] EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Fuchsia, of the capture of a Confcderate soldier. U. S. S. FUCHsIA, Rajppahannock River, Virginia, October 31, 1863. SIR: On landing to-day at Tapps Creek I took Thomas Harris belonging to the Fifty-fifth Virginia Regiment, a prisoner. He has been nearly three years in the service. Could not hear of any cavalry in the county. I am, sir, your obedient servant, Wiw. TELL STREET, Acting Master, Commanding. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Corn manding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Letter from Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla,to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, regarding search for Confederate force commanded by Lieutenant Wood, C. S. Navy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, November 2, 1863. SIR: Your letter of 28th instant, iu relation to the position of the rebel cavalry on the peninsula, has been received and a copy has been forwarded to the Department. The question of looking into Hurds Creek for the rebel boats com- manded by Lieutenant Wood has also been submitted to the Depart- ment, and further instructions will be sent you as soon as I receive a reply. An attempt was made some time since by an officer commanding one of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron in the same quarter for the same purpose, who was killed by a party in ambush. All such exyeditions should be planned after reliable information as to the force of the enemy, with an adequate force aud for an adequate end. You will, I am assured, endeavor to obtain the necessary information, and if authorized to act, proceed prudently arid well prepared. Very respectfully, your obedient servaiztt, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant E. HOOKER, Qommanding Second Di vision Potomac Ji lo,till~ Page 371 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 371 Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore ifarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. NAVY DEPARTMENT November 4, 1863. Sin: Your letter of the 31st ultimo, with enclosure, has been received. The Department approves of the suggestUn of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Edward Hooker, and authorizes him to examine the creek near the Piankatank River, for the purpose indicated. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. ilAuwooD, Commandant of the Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. Order of ~iJoinmodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, to proceed in search of the boats commanded by Lieu- tenant Wood, C. S. Navy. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, November 16, 1863. SIR: You are authorized to examine the creek near the Piankatank River mentioned in your letter of the 28th ultimo, for the purpose of discovering the boats supposed to be concealed there. I refer you to my letter of the 2d instant npon this subject and leave the rest to your sound discretion. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. ilAnwooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, November 18, 1863. (Received 10:50 a. ut) The officer commanding at the mouth of the Itappahannock, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Edward Hooker, has intelligence of a sloop in Corrotoman Bay, about 15 miles above the mouth of the river. She is actively engaged in the contraband business, and he wishes to obtain permission to go in search of her. The existing order of the Depart- ment forbids it. Please send an answer, as I am about to send dis- patches to flotilla. ANDREW A. HARWOOD. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, November 18, 1863. A special expedition is allowed for the object mentioned in your telegram of this date. GIDEON WELLES. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington Page 372 372 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. AS1. Nary, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant hooker, U. S. Naey, commanding Second Dicision, to proceed to Corrotoman Bay. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, November 18, 1863. SIR: You are authorized to make a special expedition to Corrotoman Bay for the purpose of capturing any blockade runners that may be sheltered there. You will send an adequate force under reliable officers. Very respectfully, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, (Join man(ling Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding Second i)ivision Potomac Flotilla. Ii~eport of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Dicision Potomac Flotilla, regarding conditions in the Piank- atank Ricer. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off P6int Lookout, Md., November 18, 1863. SIR: I acknowledge receipt of engineers appointment [for] J. T. Buckley, and enclose herewith letter of acceptance and oath of Mr. B., envelope and report of Acting Master Provost on capture of revenue officer, with accompanying letter of the lieutenant commanding reve- nue steamer Hercules. 1 have visited the Piankatank, and although there is much that is suspicious, I have not yet deemed my information positive enough to warrant inc in sending my boats out of range of my guns. I have information from contrabands that the movement of forage has commenced from points near the month of the Rappahannock. With your permission I will endeavor to intercept and destroy it. The donkey pump of the Anacostia has given out entirely. She keeps her boilers up by keeping her engine moving, but will have to go for water, which she has heretofore condensed. The Tulip has carried away the batten of her main channels (the captain says in getting out of dock at the yard); if you will send me a :3-inch oak plank and a few S-inch spikes I can repair it. l)uring the dark and stormy weather lately I have had much trouble in keeping underway at night on account of my compasses, which are affected by the iron around the wheelhouse. To remedy this I pro- pose to put a binnacle on the poop deck well aft and shall go into St. Marys River to-day to swing ship and verify a compass at that part of the ship. Very respectfully, yours, etc., E. HOOKER. Commodore HARWOOD. - Report of Gommodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Plo. tilla, regarding examination of places near the month 0] Rappahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, November 18, 1863. SIR: Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, who is in command of the (livision of the flotilla, station II, at the mouth of the liappaha Page 373 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOcK. 373 nock, has written to me, to request that the restrictions with regard to examination of places iiear the mouth of the river ma~ be removed to some extent or modified. After a conversation with an officer just from Station H, I am con- vinced that advantage is takeu of the supposed inactivity of the flotilla to pass goods over from Corrotoinan Bay across the Bappahannock. I have great confidence iu the judgment and vigilance of Mr. Hooker, and would recommend that he be permitted to act at discretion, pro- vided he confines his operations to places below Urbana. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. lIon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Instructions from the Secretary of thc Navy to Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding examination of places on the Rappahannock Ricer. NAVY DEPARTME~qT, November 21, 1863. SIR: The Department has received your iNo. 410, and approves of your recommendation that Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker be allowed to exercise his discretion with regard to examining places near the mouth of the Rappahaunock, provided they are below Urbana, and precise written instructions for his guidance are furnished. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. HARWOOn, Secretary of the Navy. Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington. Order of Commodore Har~eood, U. S. Nary, commandinq Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Licatenant Iloolcer, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, for the examination of places near the mouth of Rap- pahannock River. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, November 23, 1863. SIR: You are allowed to exercise your discretion with regard to examining places near the mouth of the I~appahannock, provided the examination is made below Urbana. You will consult with Lieutenant-Commander Magaw both as to exl)ediency of each examination and the best means of carrying it out. The object must in all cases be an adequate one, and the means employed adequate also. IMuch must necessarily be left to your (liscretion, in which I have confidence. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD hOOKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla Page 374 ~74 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND I~A~PAHANNOCK. Weekly report of the location of the vessels of the Fir8t Division of the Potomac Flotilla,. Commodore A. A. Harwood, commanding, for the week ending November 21, 1863. Name. Station. Remarks. A. Hugel (guard) A XV an an NandB Resolute C Dragon CandD Yankee DandE Sophronia (guard) F Jacob Bell Cmur de Lion G Eureka Nanjemoy CreeL Primrose Navy yard Freeborn do Fuclisia do Commodore Read At large List of stations. Station A.Alexandria to Indian head. Station B.Indiau Head to Liverpool Point. Station C.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D.Popes Creek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretons Bay to St. Georges Island. Station G.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point, Virginia. Station ifSmiths Point to south entrance of the Piankatank, including that river, as well as the Rappahannock. SAML. MAGAW, Lieutenant-Commander. Weekly report of the location of the ve8sels of the Second Division of the Potomac Flotilta, Commodore A. A. Harwood, commanding, for the week ending Saturday, November 21, 1863. Name. Station. 1 Remarks. Currituck H Latter part of the week cleaning and repairing boiler and engine; watering and coaling at Piney Point. Anacostia H Will have to coal next week. Tulip H Do. Jacob Bell G Omurde Lion (1- Sophronia F Guard ship. List of stations. Station A.Alexandria to Indian Head. Station B.Indian head to Liverpool Point. Station C.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D.Popes Creek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretons Bay to St. Georges Island. Station G.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point, Virginia. Station H.Smiths Point to south entrance of the Piankatank, including that river as well as the Rappahannock. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. HOOKER, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Comdg. Second Division Potomac Flotilla Page 375 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 375 Report of Commodorcilfarwood, U. S. Navy, comm andinq Potomac Flotilla, rcgarding boat cvpedition for the capture oj blockade runners and desert~ ers on St. Georges Island. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Nary Yard, IVashinyton, December 1, 18G3~ SiR: Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Edward hooker having learned that a number of rebels had assembled on St. Georges Island, at the mouth of the St. Marys River, informed Brigadier-General Marston of the circumstance. Eighty five s3ldiers were detailed by the general, under the command of Assistant Adjutant-General [Center II.] Law- rence, 50 of whom were embarked on board tIme Jacob Bell, Acting Master Schulze, and the rest in an army tug. in the afternoon of the 22d, guard boats being placed at the north of the island to prevent the rebel party from escaping, the soldiers were landed and commenced a search of the island which lasted until morn- ing, the Jacob Bell being anchored during the night on the south side of the island to prevent an escape into Virginia. The next morning by 11 oclock 63 persons were taken, of whom the assistant a(ljutallt-general discharged 32. The remaining 31, consist- ing of rebel deserters and blockade runners, were taken to Point Look- out and are iii the possession of the army authorities. In this expedition Rudolph Kaiser, a seaman of the Jacob Bell, unfor- tunately fell out of a boat and was drowned. Not being able to swim, he rose to the surface but once and lost hold of the oar extended for his relief. I enclose herewith a certificate of his death. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting journal of prisoners escaped from Castle Thunder, Rich- mond, Va. NAvY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 4, 1863. SIR: I enclose ajoarual ~ of eight of the prisoners who recently escaped from Castle Thunder, Richmond, Va. They were picked up by the Anacostia a few miles above the mouth of the Rappahannock River [November 22, 1863]. I hive the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A.. IIJARWOOD~ Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Not necessary to publish Page 376 376 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla of thc capture of three blockade runners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Nary Yard, Washington, November 24, 1863. Sin: I have to report the capture of three blockade runners, with memoranda indicating that one of them is connected with the rebel Army, viz: Thomas N. Jiolliday, Company K, Fortieth Virginia (rebel) Regiment; John J. Booth, Ezekiel W. Brain. They have been turiied over to the provost-marshal of the military district of Washington. I have the hoiior to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore IIarwoo(l, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the capture of blockade runners. POTOMAC FLOTILLA Navy Yard, Washington, November 30, 1863. SIR: I have to report the capture of the blockade runners who were transporting four ladies and two childreu from Virginia, viz: William Harduiau and Selden Keys (both colored). They have all been turned ovet to the proper military authorities. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Commodore flarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting certificate of capture of schooner F. W. Johnson. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, December 3, 1863. SIR: Enclosed I forward for the information of the Navy Department certificate of capture of the schooner F. U. Johnson, captured pn the 1st instant by the U. S. schooner A. Hugel, for a violatiomi of the reve- nue laws, in having liquors on board not specified in the manifest. The vessel has been placed iii the hands of the prize court, and the crew and passengers in the custody of the provost.marshal. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWooD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of. the Navy Page 377 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 377 [Enclosure.] Potomac Flotilla.Certiftcate of capture. Name and character of the prizeSchooner F. U. Johnson, of Balti- more, Md., Captain William II. Thompson, with sutlers stores; from Georgetown, D. C., bound to Port Royal, S. C. By whom and by what vessel capture madeS. Nickerson, acting master, commanding U. S. schooner Adolph Hugel. When capture madeDecember 1, 1863. Where and for what reasonsOff Alexandria, Va., for having liquors an(l a large quantity of stores on board not specified on the manifest. The cargo, if any on boardGeneral. What papers foundCoasting license, enrollment, coastwise manifest, two charter parties, shipping articles, one package of private papers. RemarksSeven passengers: H. W. Ranney, A. Ranney, G. W. Bayer, L. M. Emory, W. F. Clary, Charles Galighasser, John Masher. The above-named passengers have no passes, and are not mentioned on the manifest or any of the vessels papers. DECEMBER 1, 1863. I hereby certify that the above-mentioned schooner, cargo, and pas- sengers were captured by the undersigned, commanding the U. S. schooner Adolph Ha gel, of the Potomac Flotilla, at the time and l)lace above designated, and that the above and annexed statement is true in every particular. S. NICKERSON, Acting Master, Commanding. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 9,1863. (Received 12:15 p. in.) Can an order be sent down by aii army tug to reenforce the number of vessels at Point Lookoutl The only vessel I have to send this mes- sage by is the King Philip, which is wanted to convey the Russian officer to and from Alexandria to-night. The Ella, under repairs, will not be ready until to-morrow. Will the Department i)lease instruct me how to proceed l ANDW. A. HARWoOD, Commodore. Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 9, 1863. (Received 4:35 p. in.) The Commodore Read will leave the yard as soon as she can take in coal enough. She has just arrived. Lieutenant-Commander Magaw will return to Point Lookout and execute your orders of the morning. The Mount Washington will not be ready until the 24th, but the Ella aIld King Philip will be placed at the disposal of the admiral to take the Members of Congress to the Russian fleet on Saturday. ANDW. A. HARWoOD, Commodore. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy Page 378 378 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commodore Harwood, U. AS. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, transmitting information ~f the granting oJ passes by the com- manding officer of revenue steamer Hercules. I~AVY lARD, WASHINGTON, December 10, 1863. Sin: Ii enclose herewith a letter from Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Edward Hooker in relation to passes and l)ermits reported to be granted by Lieutenant [John G.] Baker, commanding U. S. revenue steamer Hercules. ~ have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, A. A. JlARwooD, Commodore, Col) imanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] U. S. S. CUIIRITUcK, Rappahannock River, Virginia, December 7, 1863. SIR: I am informed from a source which I deem worthy of credence that Lieutenant Baker, commanding revenue steamer Hercules, is in the habit of granting passes to refugees in Maryland, permitting them to visit their friends in Virginia and return again to Maryland; also permitting them to carry over tea, coffee, sugar, salt, clothing, etc., for the use of persons residing in Virginia. I have not yet intercepted any of these passes; whenever I do I shall forward them to you. My informant is a Mr. Evans, whose looks bespeak an upright, hon- est, and gentlemanly man, and who is well known to the pilots of our vessels, who all speak of him in high terms as a man of integrity and undoubted loyalty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lient., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, comm anding Potomac Flotilla, regarding passes granted by revenue officer. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 14, 1863. SIR: Your letter of the 10th instant has becim received. You will instruct the commanding officers of the Potomac Flotilla not to regard any passes or permits such as are reported to have been issued by Lieutenant Baker, of the revenue steamer hercules, and to capture all refugees or other persons attempting to violate the blockade. A copy of Lieutenant Hookers letter has been sent to the Secretary of the Treasury. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD Commanding Navy Yard, Washington Page 379 OPE1~ATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 379 [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 16,1863. Will the Department please give me notice when it wishes the ves- sels ordered to reenforce the position at Point Lookout to return to their station? ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore. Hon. G. WELLES, Secretary Navy. Order of Commodore Harwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, regarding gunboats at Point Lookout. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, COMMANDANTS OFFICE, NAVY YARD, Washington, December 18, 1863. SIR: The reenforcements of gunboats ternpor~ri1y ordered t~ take position at Point Lookout will return to their stations. The usual force will be kept to guard the depot at Point Lookout. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ANDREW A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, U. S. Navy, Senior Officer Afloat, Potomac Flotilla. Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Commodore Ilarwood, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding transfer of command. NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washington, December 18, 1863. SIR: On the 31st instant you will transfer the command of the Potomac Flotilla to Commander F. A. Parker, and regard yourself as detached from that (Inty. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Commodore A. A. HARWOOD, Commandant Navy Yard, Washington, 1). C. Order of the Secretary ~f the Navy to Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, to assume command of the Potomac Flotilla. NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 18, 1863. SIR: You are hereby detached from the navy yard, Washington, on the 23d instant, and you will report to Commodore Harwood on the 31st instant, for the command of the Potomac Flotilla. Jam, res pectfully, GIDEQN WELLES. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Navy Yard, Washington, D. C Page 380 380 OPERATiONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Weekly report of the location of the vessels of the First Division of the Potomac Flotilla, Commodore A. A. Harwood, commanding,for the week ending December 26, 1863. Naiiie. Station. Remarks. A. Hugel (guard) A The steamers have been cruising actively, overlappin~ Resolute B an(l C their stations in order to communicate with each Dragon C other, the force not being sufficient to occupy all the Teaser I) stations. Yankee DandE Sophronia (guard) F Ca,ur de Lion U Jacob Bell G Wyandank Commodore Read At large List of stations. Station A.Alexandria to Indian Head. Station B.Indian Head to Liverpool Point. Station C.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D. Popes Creek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretons Bay to St. Georges Island. Station USt. Georges Island to Smiths Point, Virginia. Station H.Smiths Poiht to south entrance of the Piankatank, including that river as well as the Rappuhannock. SAML. MAGAW. Weekly report of the location of the sessels of the Second Division of the Potomac Flotilla, Commodore A. A. Harwood, commanding, for the week ending on Satnrday, December 26, 1863. Name. Station. Remarks. Currituck fi Anacostia F tJleansing boiler, etc., at Piney Point all the week. Tulip H Goes up to clean boilers December 28. Jacob 13e11 U Cmurde Lion G Soplironia F - . . - Guard ship at Piney Point. List of stations. Station A.Alexandria to Indian Head. Station B.Indian Head to Liverpool Point. Station C.Liverpool Point to Popes Creek, Maryland. Station D.Popes Creeek, Maryland, to Wicomico River. Station E.Wicomico River to Bretons Bay. Station F.Bretons Bay to St. Georges Island. - Station U.St. Georges Island to Smiths Point, Virginia. Station H.Smiths Point to south entrance of the Piankatank, including that river as well as the Rappahannock. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWD. hOOKER, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, U. S. Navy, Comdg. Second Division Potomac Flotilla. [Telegrani.J NAVY DEPARTMENT, December 26, 1863. SIR: Reliable information has been received that a large amonnt of goods are being taken across the Potomac from Bretons Bay to Noniini, and are stored at each place. Take all measnres to intercept and captnre them. GIDEON WELLES, Commodore A. A. ilARwoon, ~. s. Navy, & eretary of the Navy. Commandant U. ~. Naval ktation, Washington, D. C Page 381 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AiND RAPPAHANNOCK. 381 [Telegram.] NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON, December 26 [1863]. (Iteceived 11:10 p. in.) Telegram received. All measure~s will be promI)tly taken to iiiter- cept and capture the goods mentioned iii the dispatch of the I)epart- nieiit. A. A. HAinwoon, Commodore. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Report of Commodore Ilarwood, V. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding contraband operations between Bretons Bay and Now mi. POTOMAC FLOTILLA, Navy Yard, Washington, December 28, 1863. SIR: Your telegram was received on Saturday night at 11 p. m. Yesterday all measures in my power were taken to intercept and cap- ture the goods said to be passing over from Bretons Bay to Nomini. It has been well known td the officers of the flotilla that such contra- band operations have been going on, but owing to various impediments - it has not been entirely in my power to prevent them. Among other difficulties, I would mention that it has been thought prudent to restrict the visitation of detachments of the flotilla to the Maryland shore, and I still think that the contrabamidists~ depots should be watched by the civil and military authorities on that side, and that the operations of the flotilla should as far as possible be restricted to the river. I have the honor to be, with great resl)ect, your obedient servant, ANDW. A. HARWOOD, Commodore, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Nary, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of intended departare down the river. U. S. S. COMMODORE HEAD, Off Alexandria, January 2, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that I shall proceed dowim the river iii this vessel to-morrow morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, of the arrest of nine versons for violation of blockade. U. S. S. COMMODORE HEAD, Off Alexandria, January 2, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report to you that I seat to day to the provost-marshal at Washington nine prisoners, viz: Thomas Mack Page 382 382 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Richard Norton, Isaac Quail (colored), captured December 29 at Plow- dciis wharf Wicomico River, they having crossed the night before and being on their way to Baltimore. They were arrested for a viola- tion of the blockade. The other six were captured by the steamer Yankee on the night of the 27th, at Komini, Va., while attempting to cross to Maryland: William Winfield, in charge; XV. II. Thomas, boy, engaged in working beat; S. B. Burrows first lieutenant rebel Prince Md Army, Georges ,~ William A. Coalie, of Prince Georges, Md., formerly of the rebel Army; Mrs. Mary 1)avidson, whose husband [is] in the rebel Navy; Mrs. Caroline Mara and child, whose husband is South. I also sent to the provost-marshal the following documents, money, etc., belonging to the prisoners: W. Winfleld, $55 Confederate money; Mrs. Caroline Mara, bills of exchange on London, legal documents; S. B. Burrows, papers; W. A. Coalie, papers. A boat landing failed to discover the whereabouts of any goods at INomini or that region. There is a sufficient force between Koinini and Bretons Bay to inter- cept anything that may attempt to cross. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES. Secretary of the Navy, Washington, 1). C. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second i)ivision Potomac Flotilla, regarding 1)roposed cooperation with the Army in a raid upon the enemy. U. S. S. CURIITTUCK, Rappahannock River, Virginia, January 3, 1864. SIR: I this morning received a communication from General Marston, requesting the cooperation of gunboats iii a raid which he proposes upon the peninsula between the Potomac and Rappahaunock. The brief time between this and the proposed time of action debars me from consulting with you about it, although in my reply to the geu- eral this a. m. I requested him to com~nunic ate with you. As the move is one which 1 have often urged upon the general, and which I believe to be impoi~tant, I shall without hesitation cooperate with him,although in so doing I shall take i~iy vessels higher up the IRappahannock than Commodore Harwood had permitted me to go. 1 shall be at Point Lookout to-morrow morning and communicate with the general personally, and shall then learn more of his plans than I now know. If thought necessary to increase my force, I shall take one or two of the vessels from up the river, believing that the presence of our forces in Virginia will have the effect of checking any contraband movements across the Potomac. Finally, the movement will prevent me from cleaning the boilers of the Currituck until after it is completed. It is now three weeks since cleaning, arid the detention will bQ about a week or ten days longer, but owing to the care which is taken of my boilers I feel no fear of injury to them. I have also con- sulted with my engineer in charge, and lie expresses the same opinion. After communicating with the general I will advise you of what further information Y obtain. I act in the above matter without first obtaining your permissio Page 383 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 383 only because the time is too short to obtain your advice and consent, and trust that my action will meet your approval. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lieut., U. S. Nary, (Jomdg. 2d Dir. Potomac Flotilla. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, V. S. Navy, Commanding Potom ac Flotilla. Additional report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant hooker, U. S. Nary, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding proposed cooperation with the Army in a raid upon the enemy. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off Piney Point, Md., January 5, 18G4. SIR: I have been in communication with General Marston, and find that his plans are not so far matured as I have been led to suppose, and that the movement will not be made before mmext week. This affords me time for cleaning boilers, which I shall improve. The plan now proposed is to land a force of cavalry, infantry, and artillery on the Yeocomico [Wicomico?] River and immediately extend a line across to Union wharf, and then, with a cavalry force, sweep over the peninsula, collecting forage, horses, and cattle, and also with a view to capturing two companies of rebel cavalry in that region. In cooperating I propose to take the Teaser and Yankee from the upriver stations, and with the Jacob Bell, Cxur de Lion, and Teaser to l)atrol the Yeocomico [Wicornico 0?] and Potomac rivers for the purpose of protectimig the end of the line resting on the Yeocomico [Wicomico 0?], and the tram) sports employed in removing the material collected. With the Currituck, A nacostia, Tulip, and Yankee, I will l)atrol the iRappa- hannock to prevent the escape of fugitives, the crossing of troops from below, to protect the end of the line at Union wharf, and the trans- ports eml)loyed in removing the forage, etc., on that river. If the above plan and my action in connection with it uneet your approbation, I shall be pleased to be informed of it. The general has not yet made the plan known to any of his officers, and awaits the arrival of General Butler before moving. He desires it kept a secret. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Licut. U. S. Navy, Comdg. 2(1 Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commander F. A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Letter from Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Di cision, regarding proposed raid. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Washington Navy Yard, January 5, 18G4. SIR: 1 have just written to General Marston, desiring that the raid of which you sl)eak be postponed until I have had an interview with him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Comdg. U. S. S. Currituck and Second Dir. Potomac Flotilla Page 384 384 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Instructions of the Secretary of the Navy to Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding the passing of vessels down the Potomac River. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 7, 1864. SIR: The following instructions are issued for your guidance in the matter of passing vessels down the Potomac chartered by, or in the employment of, the Quartermasters Department of the Army. 1. Those not going outside the capes of the Chesapeake, nor to an open port within, will be passed upon the certificate of General D. II. Rucker, Chief Quartermaster, or Captain E. S. Allen, Assistant Qiiar- termaster at Washington, that they have only Government stores or property on board, without regard to custom-house clearance. 2. Those going to a port outside the capes, not opened by proclama- tion of the President, will be passed only upon such a certificate as is above indicated and a reglar custom-house clearance. 3. Those going to open ports inside or outside the capes will be passed upon a regular custom-house clearance without such a certificate as is above indicated, but uiot with [upon] the certificate alone. Very respectfully, etc., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commanding Potomac Flotilla, Washington, D. C. Report of Commander Parker~ U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla,~ regarding three ice-bound schooners. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Alexandria, January 7, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that this afternoon while endeavoring to go down the Potomac, I observed three schooners fast in the ice abreast of and below Mount Vernon, and as the river is frozen across (so I am informed) to Maryland Point, it is probable that many other vessels are in a similar condition. As the flotilla can not afford them aid, I would most respectully sug- gest that the military authorities be apprised of the fact, in order that they may take such measures for their relief and protection against guerrillas as they may deem advisable. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander Comm Hon. GIDEON WELLES, , anding Potomac Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding proposed raid in coopera- tion with the Army. U. S. S. CURRITUCK, Off Point Lookout , Md., January 8, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of communications viz, from Commodore ilarwood, notifying change of commanders, etc.; from yourself, about letter to General Marston, and transferring me to U. S. S. Yankee Page 385 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 385 I wrote you on Tuesday more fully about the raid, and trust my letter has come to hand. General Butler was here yesterday, and it was planned to move on Monday next. The snowstorm will probably delay it a little. General Marston informs me that he has received your letter, which came to hand just as General Butler was leaving. What effect it will have on their movements I can not tell. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lieut., U. i3. Navy, Comdg. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commander F. A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to the Secretary of War, regarding maintenance of blockade by the Army in case of the closing of navigation in the Potomac River by ice. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 8, 1864. SIR: 1 have the honor to invite your attention to the accompanying copy of a communication* just received from Commander Foxhall A. Parker, commanding the Potomac Flotilla, in which he states that he yesterday discovered three vessels frozen in by the ice off Mount Vernon; that the flotilla is unable to give them aid, and suggests that the military authorities may be apprised of the fact, so that measures may be taken for their relief and for their protection against guerrillas. I take this occasion to state that if this cold weather contiiiues much longer it is quite likely the Potomac will be frozen over to a great exteiit, thus closing navigation and allowing the passage of persons across the river on the ice. In this event the blockade can not be maintained by the flotilla, nor can it prevent communication between the Maryland and Virginia shores, and this duty would devolve upon the Army, as well as of protecting vessels frozen in by the ice. It seems judicious, therefore, to be prepared for such an emergency. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES, Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of the Navy. Secretary of War. Letter from the Secretary of War to the Secretary of the Navy regarding measures of relief for icebound schooners in the Potomac River. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 9, 1864. SIR: The Secretary of War instructs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yesterday, enclosing a copy of a communication of the 7th instant, addressed to your department by the commander of the Potomac Flotilla, in which he suggests that the military authorities should be apprised of the fact that three vessels are embedded in the ice off Mount Vernon to which the flotilla is unable to give protection See p. 384. NWRY0L5 2 Page 386 386 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. from guerrillas; to which statement you add that in the event of the Potomac being entirely frozen over, it seems judicious to provide for the interveution of the Army to prevent the communication between the Virginia and Maryland shores, which can not be effected by the blockading squadron. In reply, the Secretary instructs me to advise you that the general in chief has been instructed to take such measures as may be necessary in the premises. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, E. 11. 5. CANBY, Brigadier- General, Assistant Adjutant- General. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, Washington, D. C. Report of (Jommander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding boat expedit?on to Nomini. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Off Piney Point, January 9, 1864. SIR: It having been discovered that the rebels had concealed at Nomini a large lighter and skiff capable of containing eighty men, a force was landed there on the 5th instant from the steamers Teaser and Yankee, under the command of Acting Ensign Sheridan, which suc- ceeded in destroying the former and capturing the latter. While they were engaged in this a number of rebel soldiers made their appearance oii the Nomini heights, but were quickly dispersed by a well-directed fire from the gunboats. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, to cruise near the mouth of Rappahannock River. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Off Point Lookout, January 11, 1864. SIR: General Marstou having informed me that he designs making a raid on the peninsula between the Potomac and the Rappahannock, during which he may occasionally be on the latter, you are hereby directed to cruise until Thursday evening with the vessels under your command between Union wharf and the mouth of the Rappahannock. You will use every precaution to guard against surprise, and will not permit an officer or man to land on shore. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Comdg. U. S. S. Yankee and Second Div. Potomac Flotilla Page 387 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 387 Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, regarding seizures of cattle. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Off Piney Point, January 11, 1864. SIR: You will forthwith place me in possession of the reliable infor- mation which led to the seizure of the beeves and calves mentioned in the report of Acting Master Nelson Pi~ovost, of the U. S. S. Anacostia, and also inform me what disposition was made of them. Also, whether any poultry was taken at the same time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Comdg. U. S. S. Yankee and Second Div. Potomac Flotilla. Report of Actinq Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla regarding seizures of cattle. U. S. S. YANKEE, Rappahannock River, Virginia, January 16, 1864. SIR: T enclose herewith my report* of the late movement on this river in cooperation with the forces of General Marston. I also eiiclose copies of the orders which you directed me to send you. My first letter of instructions I send in full, although but a small part alludes to landing, etc. The order directing me to consult with Lieutenant Commander Magaw was reported to that gentleiiian, amid, owing to the difficulty of communicating with him, I received a verbal sanction to act on my own judgment, except in very important cases. The information with regard to Lelan was as follows: I had often heard of him as a conscript officer~ who, with a party under his coin- mammd, was very active in looking up deserters, etc. During the latter part of December we visited Windmill Point during the night and took off several muen. information of this was sent to the gunboats in the mormiing, and Acting Master Provost, senior officer present (I being away coaling), landed a company of men and proceeded to his house, hoping to capture some of the party. While there, he observed a large quantity of hogs, cattle, poultry, etc., and on enquiry was told by negroes that they were going to Richmond. This being reported to me, and subsequently the report confirmed by a white refugee, on Jan. nary I, I sent a company to his (Lelans) place to try and capture him, and also to get some fresh meat. Lelan was not at home, and nearly all the stock had been removed. The meat procured was distributed among the vessels of the Second Division, to be served to the men. A thw chickens were brought down, which I am informed were bought from the negroes, and some may have been taken without paying. I think miot, however. *See p.388 Page 388 388 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. I enclose herewith copies of the private signal and general orders established by me when I first came to the iRappahannock River. I trust they will meet your approbation. I enclose also several documents from the other vessels. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lieut., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla acknowledging Departments instructions. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Rappahannock River, January 12, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communi- cation of the 7th instant, containing instructions for passing vessels down the Potomac, a copy of which I transmitted to the commanding officer of the guard ship off Alexandria for his guidance. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Cooperation of the Navy with the army expedition to the Northern Neck, January 12, 1864. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Off Piney Point, January 19, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that on the 12th instant, under cover of the gunboats Yankee, Currituck, Anacostia, Tulip, and Jacob Bell, which I had assigned to this duty, General Marston landed a force of cavalry and infantry on the peninsula between the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers, and succeeded in capturing a small body of the enemy and a large number of cavalry horses. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Report of Acting Volunteer lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. U. S. S. YANKEE, Rappahannock River, Virginia, January 16, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that in accordance with your orders I moved up the Itappahannock River with the vessels under my com- mand at 10 oclock a. m. Tuesday, the 12th instant, assigning to th Page 389 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 389 vessels their different stations as I passed up. At 5 oclock p. in. I arrived at Union wharf with the Currituck in company, and finding all quiet returned the Currituck to her station, while I remained at Union wharf ferry. At about midnight the signal agreed upon announced the arrival of the cavalry. At 4 oclock a. in. rocket signals were dis- covered from the enemy. The morning of Wednesday, the 13th, broke hazy and cloudy, and soon after we descried a large number of persons on the south bank of the river some distance above my anchorage. I got underway and pro- ceeded up as far as Totouskey Creek, nearly opposite to which were a number of men, several on horseback, having with them five large boats, three of which were on wheels with long teams of horses and cattle attached. Owing to the shallow water, I was unable to bring the ship near them, and my rifle was the only gun which would reach them. Three shots from that dispersed them, but I did not deem it prudent to send my boats to destroy the boats which they left behind, and passed on (lown the river. At about noon a white flag was shown on the beach, and a boat sent to it returned with the information that the cavalry were 2 or 3 miles inland and advancing toward the head of Corrotoman Bay Lliiver]. Having communicated with all the vessels, I again l)roceeded up the river. During the night, the weather becom- ing thick, I found the Currituck, and anchoring that ship made the Yankee fast to her stern, and so remained until the fog lifted (about noon of Thursday), when I got underway and proceeded down the river, collecting the vessels as I advanced. At 7 oclock p. m. I reached the month of the river, having had no direct communication with the land forces and no intimation of their position after the communication with the flag on shore. Having assigned night stations to the vessels, I proceeded with the Yankee to cruise in Fleets Bay, and at iioon on Friday entered the Great Wicomico River, and there found the troops just embarking, part of the vessels aground, and a lack of system in the movements. I am happy to say that within an hour after my arrival everything was afloat and the troops embarked, and at 2 oclock p. in., having led the line out of the river, I. bade farewell to the expedition and proceeded to the Rappahannock. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Lieut., U. S. Navy, Comdg. 2d Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, regarding disposition of vessels. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Off Piney Point, January 14, 18G4. SIR: Immediately after the return of General Marston with his com- mand to Point Lookout you will send the Anacostia there and the Jacob Bell to Blakistone Island, Station F. Feeling some apprehension for the safety of the large fleet of mer- chantinen now at this anchorage, I have directed the Wyandank to remain here, and have given Acting Master Taylor, of the Sop hronia, specific instructions in regard to her Page 390 390 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC ANfl RAPPAHANNOCIC. Hereafter an abstract from the log of each vessel, showing her posi- tion at the end of each watch, must accompany the weekly report of location. I am, respectfully, yours, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla.. Acting Yolnnteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla~, to Acting Master Schulze, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell, proceed to Point Lookout Mid. to U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, (~T Piney Point, Jaunary 19, 1864. SIR: You will proceed to Point Lookout and remain there for the protection of that place. Send a copy of this order to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Edward Hooker, commanding First [Second] Division Potomac Flotilla. I am, respectfully, yours, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master SCHuLzE, Commanding U. S. S. Jacob Bell. Order of Commander Parker, U S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Second Division, regarding operations in the Rajypahannock River. U. S. S. COMMODORE READ, Off Piney Point, January 20, 1864. SIR: I have received your very satisfactory report of the operations on the Rappahannock River from the 12th to the 15th instant. For particular reasons I deem it best that you should not cruise for some little time to come higher np the Rappanarinock than you have been in the habit of going. The men on the eastern shore I do not desire to ship for the flotilla. I hope, however, to fill all deficiencies in a week or two by draft from tbe North. I fully approve of your regulations, etc., for the vessels of your divi- sion. The Teaser having becit detailed for special service, I have been compelled to order the Anacostia here, and have therefore directed tFe Jacob Bell to remain at Point Lookout. I am, respectfully, yours, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Corn manding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding Second Division Potomic Flotilla Page 391 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 391 Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commandinq Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding Sec- ond Division, regarding distribution of the vessels of his command in cooperation with General iliiarston. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 2, 18G4. SIR: The vessels of your division will consist of the Yankee, Curri- tuck Freeborn, Western World, Anacostia, Tulip, and William Bacon. You will, after consultation with General Marston, select such an anchorage for the Bacon off Point Lookout as will, in your judgment, best enable her to protect that point from attack from without or revolt from within. The Anacostia is to cruise from dusk to daylight of each night bet~en Piney Point and Point Lookout, coming to anchor during thg day near the guard ship at the former place. The other vessels of your command you will dispose of as your judgment may dictate for the prevention of blockade running between Point Lookout and the Pian- katank, being careful to keep them always underway at night, except in thick and heavy weather, and to use every precaution to guard against surprise both by day and by iiight. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Second Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, transmitting letter from provost-marshal-general of Maryland regard- ing schooner Ann Hamilton. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 9, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to enclose herewith a copy of letter received from the provost-marshal-general for the State of Maryland. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GTDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. [Enclosure.] BALTIMORE, February 5, 1864. SIR: Yours about steamer Coopers Point received this morning, for which please receive my thanks. I would be glad to enter into any arrangement to send you informa- tion that would reach you punctually. Since the writing of your letter some changes in regard to trade in the northern neck of Virginia have taken place, which I think equiva- lent to raising the blockade. General Butler has given permission to parties in Baltimore to trade on the Wicomico River, and 1 understand that arrangements have been made for a gunboat to be placed in the Great Wicomico River, in Northumberland County, the officers of which are to superintend the disposition made of the goods, etc Page 392 392 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. The schooner Ann Hamilton left this city last Sunday, with a cargo consisting of groceries, dry goods, boots, shoes, hats, stationery, and notions, as per bill on record in the custom-house, to about the amount in value of $8,000. Samuel G. Miles, a ~~el1-known secesh merchant of this city, is the agent for the owners to attend to the sales, etc. These parties, I have no doubt, intend bringing out tobacco, which is knowil to be in large quantity in that section of country, having been sent over from Richmond to be forwarded by the first opportunity to Balti- more, as tobacco is not the product of that section of country. I am of the opinion that it would be a good prize if taken, as it is the opinion of -many here that the Treasury Department permit only covers the product of the section of country open upon military recommendation. I will keep you informed as best I can of all vessels leaving here for the Potomac. Very respectfully, J. L. MOPHAIL, Provost-Marshal- General for Maryland. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding seizure of schooner Ann Hamilton. U. S. S. ELLA, Off Point Lookout, Md., February 12, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that this morning on my arrival here I found the schooner Ann Hamilton (referred to in the letter of the provost.marshal-general of Maryland, a copy of which I forwarded to the Department on the 9th instant), in possession of the revenue steamer Hercules, Captain Baker, she having been seized by this vessel at Point Lookout in sight of the U. S. schooner William Bacon on the 4th day of February, 1864. Captain Baker informed me that he had communicated with the col- lector of Baltimore, who had directed him to detain the Hamilton until the Treasury Department could be heard from, but as I could only regard this as a joint seizure on the part of the Hercules and Bacon, I thought it my duty to take the matter into my own hands. Upon investigation I found that the schooner was bound from Baltimore to the Great Wicomico, having a pass to enter that river from Major- General Butler and the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, and would have therefore released her and directed her return to Baltimore, knowing the region about the Great Wicomico to be at this very time in possession of the enemys cavalry, had I not found she had on board 50 sacks of salt, 4 boxes concentrated lye, and $15,299.50 in Southern money not entered on her manifest, which made me regard her as a lawful prize to the Hercules and Bacon, the commanding officer of which latter vessel I directed to put a prize crew on board of her, agreeably to the last clause of General Orders, No. 26, and send her to the dis- trict court at Washington for adjudication. Trusting that my course in this matter will meet with the approbation of the Department, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 393 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 393 Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Actiuq Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, assigned to com- mand the First Division. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 9, 1864. SIR: You are hereby appointed to the command of the First Division of the Potomac Flotilla, extending from the Piankatank River to Blak- istone Island, and comprising the following vessels, viz: Yankee, Cur- rituck, Freeborn, Tulip, Anacostia, Jacob Bell, Western World, William Bacon, and Matthew Vassar. You will be held responsible for the discipline and training of the officers and crews of the vessels of your division, and will visit those outside of Point Lookout frequently, and those inside of it whenever you go to Piney Point to coal. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HoOKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, transmitting general orders for his command. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 9, 1864. SIR: Enclosed you will find General Orders, Kos. 5 and 6, a copy of which you will furnish to all commanders of vessels in your division. Respectfully, yours, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. [Enclosures.] GENERAL ORDERS, ~ U. S. S. ELLA, No. 5. 5 February 9, 1864. Precautions against 8urprise. Commanding officers will be on their guard against surprise by the enemy at all times, but especially at night. The great guns, howitzers, and small arms will be kept loaded, the boarding nettings securely set up, one watch on deck with arms in their hands, and on dark or misty nights the lookouts will be doubled. Vessels are to be underway at night, except in thick or heavy weather. When at anchor a slip rope will be placed on the cable and a man kept by it. The sound of the rattle, or the ringing of the ships bell, or both, will be the signal to the man at the slip rope to slip, the engineer in the fireroom to go ahead fast, and the officers and crew to repair to qnarters. No vessel is to anchor in the same place two nights consecutively, nor to come to anchor before night Page 394 394 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. At night bells are not to be struck, nor whistles blown (except when necessary to avoid collision or for the purpose of signaling), nor other noise itade which will indicate a vessels positioii, nor are lights to be shown while running, or when at anchor, except as signals in cases of emergency. This order does not apply to the guard boats, nor to vessels at the coal depots. FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. GENERAL ORDERS, U. S. S. ELLA, iNo. 6. February 10, 18G4. Hereafter all vessels of this flotilla passing the guard vessel off Alexandria will iiiake their numbers, aial when going in or out of the harbor of; or passing Piney Point, will not only make their numbers, when within the pIOI)C1 distance, bnt will afterwards pass within hail of and communicate with, the guard vessel. FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commander Parker, U. ~ Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the shooting of blockade runner John & euart. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 10, 1864. SIR: I have to report that on the night of the 6th instant a man named John Stewart was shot by Captain Nickerson, of the guard vessel Adolph Jiugel, off Alexandria. Stewart in a small boat attempted to pass the guard vessel, and although repeatedly hailed would not reply, whereupon Captain INick- erson fired at him, agreeably to my instructions, shooting him through the body. Stewart was given up to the provost-marshal at Alexandria and by him sent to the hospital, where he lies in a critical condition. The boat sank alongside the ifugel, and 10 gallons of whisky which were takeim from it were thrown overboard by my order. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Corn mander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the ~Ta~vy. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla transmitting information received from refugee regarding shells manu- factured in Richmond. U.S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February ii, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to enclose a copy of a letter received from Acting Master Schulze. The refugees of whom he speaks have been delivered over to the provost-marshal at Point Lookout, Mid. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 395 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 395 [Enclosure.] U. S. S. JACOB BELL, Off Blakistone Island, February 9, 1864. SIR: I have to report that I received six refugees on board this morning, coining direct from IRiebmond, Va. One of them, Joseph Leuty, made the following statement, which I thought important enough to bring to your notice. He says: I am an Englishman by birth, a molder by trade; have lived in the South for the last four years; for the last eight months I have hecis working iii the artillery shop on Seventh street, Richmond, where they are now making a shell which looks exactly like a piece of coal, pieces of which were taken from a coal pile as patterns to imitate. I have made these shells myself. I believe these shells have power enough to burst any boiler. After they were thrown in a coal pile I could not tell the difference between them and coal myself~ They are intended to be thrown among the coal in Northern depots by bogus refugees, spies, etc. Every blockade runner is to be provided with them, and in case of being captured are to be thrown among the coal. They commenced making these shells two weeks ago. Hoping that this information may reach you in season to prevent any accident to our forces, I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. C. SCHULZE, Acting Master, Commanding. Commander FOXHALL A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. ~ Nary, commanding 11irst Division Potomac Flotilla, regarding rumored encampment of the enemy near the head of Urbana Creek. U. S. S. YANKEE, Rappahannock River, Virginia, February 18, 1864. SIR: I have information from a source which I deem trustworthy that a body of the enemy are encamped i~ear the head of Urbana Creek, with boats to attack the blockading vessels with. They are about 12 or 15 miles above the reach of tile gunboats. My informant had not seen them, but had collected his information by various reports, all of which coincided so nearly as to be considered correct. The number of boats he had imot learned. The boats of the 8atellire and Reliance are there. The number of iiien had been variously estimated from 800 to 1,000. He had not learned whether they had artillery. U hope to receive more information soon. So large a number of men would seem to indicate something else than an attack upon the gunboats. I have therefore informed General Marston of their presence. When last at Point Lookout there seemed to be a strong probability of disturbance there, and this may be something tending that way. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HOOKER, Actg. Vol. Licut., U. S. Navy, Comdg. First Div. Potomac Flotilla. Commander F. A. PARKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Potomac Flotilla Page 396 396 OPEItATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, regarding detention from ice in the river. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 18, 1864. SIR: Owing to my being detained here by a leak in the boiler, I have been frozen in. I have detailed the Teaser to accompany the army ice- boat, should the river become frozen below Hallowiug Point. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, to proceed to St. Marys River, Maryland. U. S. S ELLA Potomac Flotilla, Feb mary 23, 1864. SIR: Upon the receipt of this order you will take passage in the Fuchsia and report to me at St. Marys River, Maryland. Before leaving enjoin upon the commanding officers of your division the necessity of keeping underway at night; also bring me the latest information relative to the boats and cavalry you spoke of in your letter to me. Respectfully, yours, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant EDWARD HOOKER, U. S. Navy, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Order of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, to Acting Master Street, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Fuchsia, to proceed to St. Marys River, Maryland. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 23, 1864. SIR: You will, with the vessel under your command, proceed without delay to the iRappahannock and take on board Lieutenant Hooker, and report to me at St. Marys River [Marylandj. Respectfully, yours, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Acting Master WM. T. STREET, U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. S. Fuchsia. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the capture of blockade runners by U. S. steamers Dragon and Jacob Bell. U. S. S. ELLA, Potomac Flotilla, February 24, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the night of the 23d instant the Dragon captured two canoes, with.twenty-nine men, women, an Page 397 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. 397 children, in the act of running the blockade from Virginia to Maryland; also on the night of the 21st instant the Jacob Belt captured a notorious blockade runner, named George W. Garnett, attempting to cross from Maryland to Virginia, all of whom I have turned over to the provost- marshal at Point Lookout, Md. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Letter from Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flo- tilla, to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, commanding First Division, regarding proposed expedition to the Rappahannock. Private and confidential. I U. S. S. ELLA, February 27, 1864. M~ DEAR SIR: The bad weather and a severe attack of sickness prevented me from leaving for the Rappahannock last night, and to-night I find that the expeditiou is no longer a secret. This, with the failure of an officer to carry out my orders, has decided me to abandon my design for the present. You will soon hear from me. I send the Freeborn to report to you. Dispose of yonr force as you think prudent, and do not go above Carters Creek. Communicate with me often. Yours, truly, FOXHALL A. PARKER. Acting Volunteer Lieutenant HOOKER, Commanding First Division Potomac Flotilla. Report of Commander Parker, U. S. Navy, commanding Potomac Flotilla, of the arrival of Union officers escaped from Libby Prison. U. S. S. ELLA, Off Navy Yard, Washington, February 29, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to inform the Department that I arrived here to-day, with Colonel A. D. Streight, Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers, Major B. B. McDonald, One hundred and first Ohio Volunteers, Cap- tain \V. W. Scearce, Fifty-first indiana Volunteers, and First Lieutenant John Sterling, Thirtieth Indiana Volunteers, who made their escape from Libby Prison, Richmond, on the 9th instant, and reached Blakis- tone Island, Potomac River (where I found them), yesterday. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FOXHALL A. PARKER, Hon. GIDEON WELLES Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hooker, U. S. Navy, command- ing First Division Potomac Flotilla, giving information regarding movements of Confederate forces. U. S. S. YANKEE, Rappahannock River, Virginia, February 29, 1864. SIR: The Freeborn arrived last night, and brought me intelligence of the postponement of the proposed expedition. On this station at least Page 398 398 OPERATIONS ON THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOCK. not an officer except the commanding officers had any knowledge of the intended movement. 1 have some news of importance. There are 600 cavalry at Heaths- yule, on the Coan River. The forces near Urbana have been reen- forced by Johit Taylor Wood, who is in command, and his party from New Berne, a portion of them, have moved down from Urbana to Stnrgeon Creek. There is also a report that the Ninth Virginia Cavalry are at Union wharf and a large force on the opposite side of the river. The Crusader also brings me information of 600 cavalry at New Point, below here. I can but feel that so large a force means something more than an attack on the gunboats, although that is no doubt a part of the program me. I shall use my utmost endeavors to