Allard Family
U.S.S. Underwriter - Capture & Destruction
Official Records of the Union and Confederate
Navies in the War of the Rebellion
Series 1, Volume 9, North Atlantic Blockading Squadron
From May 5, 1863 to May 5, 1864
Washington, Government Printing Office, 1899
Pages 439 to 455
Capture and destruction of the U. S. S. Underwriter by Confederate boat Expedition under Commander Wood, C. S. Navy, in Neuse River, North Carolina, February 2, 1864.
[Telegram]
Fort Monroe, Va., February 4, 1864.
(Received 4 : 30 p. m.)
Your telegram received. Glad to see you on Saturday. The rebels are
besieging New Berne. Have captured and blown up the gunboat Underwriter.
She was surprised.
Flusser with the rest of the fleet was going to the relief of New Berne
and was at the mouth of Neuse River last night.
B. F. BUTLER, Major General Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary Navy.
Report of Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, regarding capture of
signal books on the
U.S.S. Underwriter.
U.S.S. Hetzel,
Of New Berne, N. C., February 8, 1864.
ADMIRAL: I think it quite probable that the signal book of the
Underwriter has fallen into the hands of the enemy. She had not
the general, only the boat signal code. It would be well to change
their numbers or their values. I have the honor to be,
respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K. Davenport, Commander and
Senior Naval Officer in Sounds of North Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
Report of Acting Bear-Admiral Lee, U. S. Navy, transmitting additional reports.
SIR: I enclose herewith the reports (1) of G. Edgar Allen, acting third assistant engineer, lately attached to the U. S. S. Underwriter, captured and destroyed by the rebels during their recent raid upon New Berne.
Also the report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Graves (2), commanding the U.S.S. Lockwood, detailing the naval operations during the time New Berne was threatened by the enemy. From the report of Mr. Allen it seems that the Underwriter was surprised by three boats filled with men, while lying at anchor in the Neuse River above the line of our fortifications. After a short resistance, the Underwriter was surrounded by the enemy, who proceeded to place the oflicers and crew in their boats, and, after plundering the vessel, set her on fire and commenced to retreat with their prisoners under a fire from the battery on shore.
Mr. Allen, on discovering that the guard which had been placed in the boat he was in numbered but two men, easily took possession of the boat, and making prisoner of one of the guard, made his way to the shore within our lines. I enclose list (3) of the officers and men who thus made their escape from the enemy, and who are now on board the Lockwood. I have directed Commander Davenport to distribute them among the vessels in the sounds, according to their necessities.
I will cause a thorough investigation of the matter to be instituted.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, yours,
S. P. LEE, Acting Rear-Admiral, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
Hon. Gideon WELLES, Secretary of the Navy.
U. S. S. Lockwood, _
Off New Berne, N. C., February 2, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report that about half past 2 o’clock this morning, while the U.S.S. Underwriter was lying at anchor in the Neuse River above our line of works, several boats filled with men were seen coming down the river. The night was very dark, and they were not seen until they had approached within 100 yards of the vessel. They were hailed as soon as seen, but instead of answering, cried out, “Give way; give way strong.” We then found out that they were filled with the enemy. The rattles were immediately sprung for all hands to get to quarters, but before the guns (which were trained on the port bow so as to command the bridge crossing the river) could be brought to bear upon them they had approached so near our starboard bow and quarter that we attacked them with small arms. They appeared to number 150, while there were not over 40 men all told upon the vessel. We repelled them successfully for fifteen minutes, when they overpowered us and captured all the men and part of the officers on deck, driving the remainder down into the wardroom, where they followed with cutlasses and revolvers, demanding us to surrender, which, as nothing could be gained by resistance, we did.
We were immediately ordered into the boats under guard; I, together with 18 or 20 of the crew, being put into the whaleboat belonging to the Underwriter. After we were all in the boats they stripped the vessel of everything they could carry off, and then set fire to her fore an aft.
While they were doing this Fort Stevenson opened on the vessel, the first shell going through the port wheelhouse and signal box and bursting, wounded several of the enemy.
We then shoved off and were proceeding up the stream, the boat I was in being astern the rest, when I discovered that in their hurry to get off they had put only two men as guard in the boat. This fact I discovered by the one in the stern steering (by whom I was sitting) hailing the other boats, which were some 50 yards ahead of us, and asking them to take off some of us, as the boat was overloaded it could make no headway, also saying they wanted a stronger guard, as all but two were prisoners. One of the other boats was turning to come back when I snatched the cutlass from the belt of the guard and told the men to pull for their lives. Some of the men, the other guard among them, jumped overboard and swam for land. I headed the boat for the shore and landed at the foot of the line of breastworks, delivered my prisoner to the commanding officer, and, procuring an ambulance, took one of our disabled men to the hospital. At daylight I reported on board the Lockwood.
At 5 a. m. the magazine of the Underwriter blew up, and at this time she lies burned to the water’s edge.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. EDGAR ALLEN, Acting Third Assistant Engineer, U.S. Navy.
G. W. Graves, U. S. Navy, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant and Senior Officer Present.
U. S. S. Lockwood, Off New Berne, N. C., February 2, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report:
At 3:30 a. m. on the 1st instant the officer of the deck reported heavy firing in direction of Neuse Road.
At 5 a. m. I communicated with Acting Master Westervelt, commanding the Underwriter, and Acting Master Josselyn, commanding the Hull, ordering them to be in readiness for a. move. At 6:30 a. m.
I received an official dispatch from General Palmer, informing me that the enemy were advancing in force and requesting me to make such disposal of the boats under my command as I should deem proper.
I immediately ordered the Underwriter to get underway and take up position on the Neuse River, so as to command the plain outside our line of works, and the Hull to take a station above her.
At 9 a. In. the Underwriter had reached the position assigned her, but the Hull, soon after getting underway, got aground and could not be gotten off during the day.
Soon after this (hearing from the commanding general that the enemy were planting a battery near Brice’s Greek) I proceeded with the Lockwood as far up the Trent River as I could get, and lay there at anchor for the night.
At 3 o’clock on the morning of the 2d I received a dispatch from General Palmer, informing me that the Underwriter had been taken by surprise.
Immediately after receiving this I perceived her to be on fire, but as it was very thick and the channel very intricate, I was obliged to wait until daylight before I could move.
As soon as it grew light I got underway and ran down the river to New Berne, where I found the Underwriter burned to the water’s edge. From all that I can learn it was a complete surprise. They had very little steam on and no boarding nettings up. The officers and crew fought desperately until, overpowered by numbers, they were obliged to surrender. I enclose the report of Acting Third Assistant Engineer Allen, late of the Underwriter; also a list of the men who have reported. '
The attacking party was composed of sailors, armed with rifles, revolvers, and cutlasses, about 300 in all, regularly organized and stationed, engineers, firemen, pilot, and all complete.
Acting Masters Lear and Newman being here (not having had time to report to their respective vessels), I, at the suggestion of the commanding general, fitted up the army steamer Allison with two fieldpieces, and placed her under the command of Acting Master Rogers, assisted by the above-named officers. Later in the day the general placed the steamer Eagle at my disposal, to arm with such guns as could be obtained.
At 6 p. m. the Hull was gotten afloat, and I immediately ordered her to proceed down the river as far as Johnson’s Point, to reconnoiter and prevent the enemy from erecting batteries upon the banks.
This evening, at the request of the commanding general, I supplied Colonel Nixon with all the available boats for an expedition up the Neuse River.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. W. Graves, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding.
H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander and Senior Officer, Comdg. Sounds of North Carolina.
List of officers and men lately belonging to the U. S. S. Underwriter who have reported on board the U. S. S. Lockwood.
George E. Allen ...... .. Acting third assistant engineer.
Stephen Canna ...... .. Boatswain's mate.
Hugh McDougall .... . . Carpenter's mate.
Robert Davis ......... .. Coxswain.
William H.Williamson ... Captain after guard.
Terrence Reilley ...... . Ship’s cook.
Albert A. Allard ...... .. First class fireman.
John Griffin ........... .. Second-class fireman.
Robert Hubbard ..... .. Seaman.
Thomas R. Hopkins ... Quartermaster.
Charles McDonald ... . Ordinary seaman.
Joseph E. Gilmore .... Ordinary seaman.
Daniel Borden
William E. Winn
James Crosby
Thomas Livermore... . Landsman.
James Smith
John Rooney
Michael Hill.
John Simons
Wlliam Ransom
Henry Edwards
Andrew Shark ...... .. First-class boy.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. W. Graves, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding.
Report of Acting Beer-Admiral Lee, U.S. Navy, regarding proposed court of enquiry.
U.S. FLAGSHIP MINNESOTA, off Newport News, Va., February 15, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the Department’s confidential communication of 13th instant, enclosing copy of letter from the superintendent of the North Pennsylvania Railroad in regard to “derelictions from duty” on the part of the commanding officer of the U. S. S. Underwriter, lately destroyed by the enemy.
The capture of the commanding officer and most of the other officers renders a satisfactory court of enquiry difficult. I have been waiting for the disturbances in that quarter to be over, when a court of enquiry will be convened.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, yours,
S. P. LEE, Acting. Rear-Admiral, Commanding. North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
Hon. Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
Report of Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy.
U.S.S. HETZEL, off New Berne, N. C., February 17, 1864.
ADMIRAL: The reports of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Graves and Third Assistant Engineer Allen will give you the particulars of the capture of the Underwriter.
General Palmer informs me that the enemy evidently intended making a simultaneous combined attack, but the weather prevented the naval forces arriving at the proper time.
When the first attack (on shore) was made, the Underwriter was at anchor below the town, on the eve of starting for Hatteras to resume her duties there.
She was ordered up the Neuse, the Lockwood up the Trent, while the Commodore Hull was aground and could not be gotten off, even with the assistance of tugs, etc., the water being very low.
The enemy came down with fifteen armed boats, three of them barges which had been transported from Richmond, carrying in all about 300 men, and boarded the Underwriter on all quarters. At this time the gig of the Underwriter was absent with one of General Palmer’s staff, up Bachelor’s [Batchelder’s] Creek, in an attempt to communicate with one of the outposts. "
The Underwriter, as you are aware, is very low in the water, her guards scarcely clearing it.
From the official report of the enemy, their loss proves that the officers and crew of the Underwriter fought well until overpowered.
The enemy were commanded by Commander John Taylor Wood and the following-named officers: Lieutenant Gardner, Lieutenant Hoge, Lieutenant Kerr, Lieutenant Wilkinson [Captain T.S. Wilson]
The only one of the crew known to be killed is John Fealy, first-class fireman. His body floated ashore last night, and I had it interred this morning.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander and Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North
Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
Order of the Secretary of the Navy to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U.S. Navy, for the promotion of Acting Third Assistant Engineer Allen, U.S. Navy.
NAVY DEPARTMENT, February 17, 1864.
SIR: The Department has received your No. 68, relative to the loss of the Underwriter, captured by the rebels on the 1st [2d] instant near New Berne, N.C.
1f you are satisfied that the conduct of Acting Third Assistant Engineer George E. Allen, who made his escape with a number of men by overcoming the guard, was correct in other respects, you are authorized to promote him to the position of acting second assistant engineer.
Very respectfully, etc., Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy. Acting
Rear-Admiral
S.P. Lee, Commanding. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Hampton Roads.
Report of Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy, giving names of men in hospital from the U. S. S. Underwriter at the time of capture.
U. S. S. HETZEL, Of New Berne, N. C., February 18, 1864. ADMIRAL: I find there were several men at the hospital and on board the U.S.S. Seymour belonging to the late U.S.S. Underwriter at the time of her loss. The enclosed list comprises the names of those who were at the hospital.
I will send the names of those on board the Seymour (two or three) as soon as I can get them. I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander and Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S.P. Lee, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
William Wiggins ..... .. Landsman.
Michael McGeeney
John Baines
James Todd
J.L. Schulte
John Sherry
James Ryan*
Joseph Smith .......... . Ordinary seamen.
William Murray
Peter Gilligan* ..... . . Ordinary seamen.
James Meck ......... .. Seaman.
John Rankin*
John Warner
James Kelly .... . . . .. First-class fireman.
George D. Hubbard ... Coal heaver.
C. Watford
H. Hevener ........... . . Captain [of gun crew]
* Admitted after the vessel was destroyed.
Report of Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, regarding the death of Acting Master Westervelt, U. S. Navy.
U. S. S. HETZEL, Ojf New Berne, N. C., February 25, 1864. ADMIRAL: I learned to-day that Acting Master Westervelt was killed in the attack upon his vessel. I had supposed that he was taken prisoner. The Underwriter was overpowered. She fought well. I am not ashamed of the Navy.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K.
Davenport, Commander and Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
Report of Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, regarding the recovery of the body of Acting Master Westervelt, U. B. Navy.
U. S. S. HETZEL, Off New Berne, N. C., February 28, 1864. ADMIRAL: I have just recovered the body of Captain Westervelt. I shall have it interred with all the honors of war tomorrow at 11 o’clock.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K.
Davenport, Commander,
U. S. Navy, and Senior Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
Report of Commander Davenport, U. 8. Navy, transmitting lists of killed and captured.
U. S. S. HETZEL, Off New Berne, N. C., March 1, 1864.
ADMIRAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 25th ultimo, calling for a list of the missing officers and crew of the Underwriter.
Enclosed 1 send you two lists. The list marked “A” comprises those known to be killed; their bodies have been recovered. List “B” I have copied from the Philadelphia Inquirer of February 26, 1864. It purports to have been furnished by some of the prisoners at Goldsboro.
I have no means of ascertaining who were captured, there being no crew list here. The list of officers in the Inquirer coincides with that in my possession.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, H.K.
Davenport, Commander, U.S. Navy, Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North
Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading
Squadron.
[Enclosure A. ]
List of officers and men of the U. S. S. Underwriter known to have been killed in the attack upon that vessel.
U. S. S. HETZEL,
Of New Borne, N. 0., March 1, 1864.
Name. Rate. Body recovered.
Jacob Westervelt .......... . . Acting master, commanding
....................... .. February 28.
John Feely........................ First-class fireman
................................... .. February 16.
Alfred Banks (colored) .... ... Captain's boy
......................................... .. March I.
H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander, . S. Navy, Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
In the hands of the enemy guide Philadelphia Inquirer, February 26, 1864).
William K. Engell ......... Acting master's mate .... . ............
Wounded.
Edward H. Sears . . . . .Acting assistant paymaster
John B. Dick . . . . . . . Acting second assistant engineer
Samuel B. Ellis . .. .. .. Acting third assistant engineer
Henry K. Steever
Daniel Ward .............. Acting master’s mate
Chas. A. Stewart
John McCormick
............................................................Wounded.
James H. Earle . . ...... Paymaster's steward
James A. Mathews .... Master at arms _
Henry Mcllvain ......... . Quartermaster
Michael Quinlan
Lyman Page ......... .... Gunner's mate
John Brown . . . . . . . . Ship's cook
Nathaniel M. Persons. . Officers cook
Thomas Jones ....... . . Wardroom steward
James Kelley, 741 ..... . Quarter gunner
Joseph Ingersoll . . . . . .Captain of forecastle.....................
Wounded.
John Journey . . . . . . . Second class fireman
Jonas P. Willis ........ . . Seaman
John Rowland
Robert Graham ....... ... Ordinary seaman
John Sullivan ........... .. Landsman
William Jones
Albert Mors
..................................................................
Wounded.
Edward Newlove
........................................................... Died.
List of men from U.S.S. Underwriter now on board U.S.S. Commodore Hull.
Henry Edwards ..... . . Landsman.
John Griffin . . . . . . . Second-class fireman.
William Ransom . . .... Landsman.
Thomas Livermore . . .Coal heaver
Cassius Watford
Andrew Shark ....... .. First-class boy.
William H. Williams ... Captain afterguard.
John Rooney . . . . . . Landsman.
Albert A. Allard ....... First Class Fireman.
Robert Davis. ....... . Ordinary seamen.
James Crosby
John Warner . . . .... Seaman.
Total, 12 men.
J. CHAPMAN, Acting Assistant Pay/master.
List of names of persons taken prisoners on board U. S. S. Underwriter, furnished by W. K. Engell, master's mate, from Goldsboro, N. C.
W.K. Engel ........Master's mate .....
Shot through the left arm and his shoulder laid open with a cutlass.
J.McCormick . . . . . . . ....................... . ........... Bad
wound in leg.
E. Newlove ..................................................... Since
died of his wounds.
Jos. Ingersoll ..................................................
Wounded.
A. Morse ......... Seaman ................................... Wounded.
E. H. Scars. ... . Acting assistant paymaster .......... Prisoner.
J. B. Dick ......... Acting second assistant engineer .. Prisoner.
H. K. Steever ....Acting third assistant engineer ...... Prisoner.
D. Ward . . .... . Acting master's mate ........ . ....... Prisoner.
C. A. Stewart . . Acting master's mate ........ . ....... Prisoner.
J. H. Earle . ...... Paymaster's steward
-I. A. Mathews ..Master-at-arms
H. McIllvain .......Quartermaster ........ ............... . Wounded.
M. Quinlan ........Seaman
Lyman Page ..... Gunners mate
J. Brown ..... .... Ship's cook
N. M. Persons ... Officers‘ cook
Thos. Jones ..... Wardroom steward
J. Kelley .......... 2d Quarter gunner
J. Journey ....... Second class fireman
J. P. Willis ....... Seaman
J. Rowland
R. Graham. . ......Ordinary seaman
J. Sullivan . ....... Landsman
W. Jones . . . . . Ordinary seaman
Letter of Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U. B. Navy, to Acting Second Assistant Engineer Allen, U.S. Navy, forwarding appointment in consideration of gallant conduct.
Flagship Minnesota off Newport News, Va., March 1, 1864.
SIR: I take pleasure in forwarding to you the enclosed appointment of acting second assistant engineer in the Navy of the United States, which has been conferred by order of the Navy Department in consideration of your gallant conduct on the occasion of the recent capture of the U. S. S. Underwriter.
Respectfully, yours,
S. P. Lee, Acting Rear-Admiral Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
Report of Acting Assistant Surgeon Kendall, U.S. Navy, regarding the death of James Ryan, landsman.
U. S. NAVAL HOSPITAL,
New Berne, N. C., March 8, 1864.
SIR: I have to report the death of James Ryan, landsman, aged 26
years, born in Ireland, and late of the U. S. S. Underwriter. He was
wounded in the attack on that vessel, in the right knee joint, and died
from exhaustion and gangrene.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant L. H. KENDALL, Acting Assistant
Surgeon in Charge.
H. K. DAVENPORT, U. S. Navy,
Commander and Senior Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
List of officers and men saved from the U.S.S. Underwriter.
George Edgar Allen ......Acting third assistant engineer
............ . . Lockwood.
Stephen Canns . . . . .. Boatswain's mate
Hugh McDougall ..........Carpenter's mute
Robert Davis .... ........ Coxswain
William H. Williams ...... Captain after guard
Terrence Reilley ......... Ship's cook
Thomas R. Hopkins ..... Quartermaster.
H. Hevener ............... Officers‘ steward .. .................................
Miami
James Kelley ... ......... First-class fireman
Albert A. Allard .......... First-class fireman. . . . . . . . ..... . .
. . . . . Lockwood
John Griffin ........... . . Second-class fireman
Robert J. Herbert ....... Seaman
James Weeks ............ Seaman
John Rankin .............. Seaman
................................................ Miami
John Warner . ........... Seaman
John Williams ............ Seaman
................................................ Hetzel
Robert H. Neild .......... Seaman
............................................... Southfield
Michael Mulaly .......... Second-class fireman
Cassius Watford ........ Coal heaver
Charles O'Donnel ....... Ordinary seaman
Joseph Gilmore ......... Ordinary seaman
Daniel Barton ........... Ordinary seaman
William E. Winn ......... Ordinary seaman
..................................... Hetzel
James Crosby .......... Ordinary seaman
Joseph Smith ............ Ordinary seaman
..................................... Miami.
Will um Murray........... Ordinary seaman
Peter Gilligan . .......... Ordinary seaman
..................................... U. S. Naval Hospital.
Lewis Gordon (colored) Ordinary seaman
.................................... Seymour.
Robert Brown ...... . . . Ordinary seaman
Daniel Lawrence ........ Ordinary seaman
.................................... Hetzel.
Thomas Livermore ...... Landsmen
James Smith ............. Landsmen
John Rooney ............. Landsmen
Michael Hill .............. Landsmen
.............................................. Hospital
John Simmons ............Landsmen
.............................................. Hetzel
Wllliam Ransom ......... Landsmen
Henry Edwards ....... Landsmen
William Wiggins ......... Landsmen
Michael McGeeney ... Landsmen
John Baines ............ Landsmen
James Todd ............ Landsmen
John L. Schulte ....... Landsmen
John Sherry ............ Landsmen ........................................... . . Miami.
James Ryan . . . . . . . Landsmen . . . . . Died at hospital
March 8, 1864, p. m.—wounded.
Philip Norphley . . . . . Landsmen ..................................... . . . . .
Miami
John Maddox ........... Landsmen
Samuel A. Kates ...... Landsmen
............................................... Hetzel.
Thomas Pink . . . . ... Landsmen
Geo. D. Hubbard ..... Coal heaver
Andrew Shark ......... First class boy
KILLED.
Jacob Westervelt. .. . Acting Master ............. February 28.
John Fealy .... ......... First Class fireman ....... February 16.
Alfred Banks ............ Captain‘s boy (colored). March 1.
John H. Beiderman . .. Ordinary seamen ..... ... March 2.
Report of Acting Rear-Admiral Lee U.S. Navy regarding the wrecking of the U.S.S.
Underwriter.
Flagship North Atlantic Blocking Squadron
Off Newport News, Va., March 25, 1864.
SIR: I transmit enclosed a letter from Commander Davenport, U. S. S. Hetzel, of 20th instant, enclosing copy of letter from W. H. Stanford (agent wrecking schooner Mary Francis), in answer to one addressed to him by Commander Davenport in reference to wrecking the Underwriter.
This vessel is chartered for an indefinite period by the Quartermaster’s Department, and therefore no proposition can at present be made.
On examination being made, however, the hull of the Underwriter was ascertained to be so much injured that it is not worth raising, and, although the boiler and great part of the engine might be saved, it would be a tedious and difficult operation; and that the battery (consisting of two VIII-inch 55-hundredweight and two 12-ponnder howitzers) could probably be saved, although the guns were not found.
Will the Department be pleased to inform me if any further action is deemed advisable in the case.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, yours,
S.P. Lee, Actg. Rear-Admiral, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy.
Order of the Secretary of the Navy of the Confederate States
to Lieutenant Hoge, C.S. Navy, regarding command.
CONFEDERATE STATES or AMERICA,
Navy Department, Richmond, January 16, 1864.
SIR: Proceed to Wilmington, N. C., and take charge of such boats as will be delivered to you by Flag-Officer Lynch and General Whiting.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, S. R. MALLORY, Secretary of the Navy.
First Lieutenant F. L. HOGE, Richmond, Va.
Order of Commander Wood, U.S. Navy, to Lieutenant Gift, U.S. Navy
CONFEDERATE STATES or America, Executive Department, Richmond, Va., January 20, 1863 [1864].
SIR: On your arrival at Wilmington you will relieve Lieutenant Hoge of the duties with which he has been charged.
J. Taylor Wood, U.S. Navy. Lieutenant, G.W. GIFT, C.S. Navy.
Order of the Secretary of the Navy of the Confederate States to Lieutenant Gift, C. S. Navy, to relieve Lieutenant Hoge of his command.
Office of Orders and Detail,
C.S. Navy Department, Richmond, Va., January 21, 1864.
SIR: The order of the 19th instant, directing you to report to Flag Officer Ingraham, at Charleston, for duty, is hereby suspended till further orders from this Department; and you will report by letter to Commander John Taylor Wood,
C.S. Navy, for special service under his command.
By command of the Secretary of the Navy: I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN K. MITCHELL, Commander in Charge.
Lieutenant for the War George W. GIFT, C. S. Navy, Wilmington, N. C.
[Endorsement]
Relieve Lieutenant Hoge of the duties with which he has been charged. Advise me daily by telegraph of your progress and wants.
Have a strip of canvas tacked around inside of the gunwales and painted, with beckets underneath for the small arms, rifles, etc.
If you come on in charge of the men from Wilmington, see that each man is well clad and shod, has a pea-jacket and blanket, with three days’ cooked rations, cooking utensils, axes, etc. Each man to be armed with a rifle, cutlass, and, as far as possible, revolvers.
On the receipt of the order to move, do not lose a moment.
Yours, truly, etc., J. Taylor Wood, C.S. Navy.
Instructions from Commander Wood, C. S. Navy, to Lieutenant Gift, 0. B. Navy, regarding preparations.
RICHMOND, January 25, 1863 [1864].
DEAR. GIFT: Dispatch received. Will have the necessary orders given.
As soon as you receive this get the boats on the cars, ready for a move at any moment.
Move promptly on the receipt of orders. See that all the men have blankets and pea-jackets; cooking utensils for every mess; a few axes.
Each man armed with rifles, cutlasses, and, as far as possible, revolvers; ammunition.
Boats should have oars, boat hooks, painters, and all necessary fittings; but lose no time for these things, I will bring spare ones on.
Yours, etc.,
J . Taylor Wood.
We will want four or five good young officers, a gunner, carpenter, etc.
Order of the Secretary of the Navy of the Confederate States to Flag-Officer Forrest, C.S. Navy, regarding the detail of officers and men for temporary service.
Office or Orders AND Detail, C. S. Navy Department, Richmond, Va., January 27, 1864.
SIR: Be pleased to select forthwith from the vessels composing the squadron under your command 45 men, to be picked by First Lieutenant Hoge, for special service, under the temporary command of Commander John Taylor Wood, C. S. Navy, to be armed with rifles, cutlasses, and, as far as possible, with revolvers, and provided with 40 rounds of ammunition, cooked rations for three days, cooking utensils, and axes; to be well clothed and to have pea-jackets and blankets; no spare suit. Passed Midshipman A. S. Worth, Midshipmen Richard Slaughter, P. H. Gibbs, and J.[De]B. Northrop you will also detail to accompany the party, which will be required to join Commander Wood to-morrow morning at 9 o’clock. S By command of the
Secretary of the Navy:
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN K. MITCHELL, Commander in Charge. Flag-Officer F. Forrest, Commanding, etc., Richmond, Va.
[Endorsement]
Passed Midshipman A. S. Worth, Midshipmen R. Slaughter, P. H. Gibbs, J . [De]B. Northrop will, upon notification from Commander
Wood or Lieutenant Hoge, report for special duty to either of them, and will see that the men from the vessels detailed for duty be provided with the articles mentioned in the within instructions from the Navy Department.
F. Forrest, Flag-Officer and Commanding Officer.
Report of Commander Wood, C.S. Navy.
KINSTON, February 4, 1864.
SIR: The force under my command boarded and captured last night the U. S. gunboat Underwriter, 4 guns, 90 men and officers. Her position within musket range of several strong works, one of which was raking the vessel during the time we had possession, and not having steam caused me to burn her. Our loss is 20 killed and wounded and 4 missing. The enemy’s unknown.
Respectfully, &c., your obedient servant, J . Taylor Wood.
President Jefferson Davis, and Hon. S.R. MALLORY, Secretary of Navy.
Detailed Report of Commander Wood, C.S. Navy.
RICHMOND, Va., February 11, 1864.
SIR: I report the result of the late expedition near New Bern, N.C.
Lieutenant Loyall, with the boats and men from the James River Squadron, left for Petersburg by the river on the 28th ultimo, arriving there next morning. The boats were shipped on the cars for Kinston, which point was reached at 2 a. m. on the 31st. The boats and parties from Wilmington and Charleston were to leave and join the command at Goldsboro, but owing to delay at the first place it was noon before they arrived at Kinston. The light boats were at once put in the water and started down the Neuse, leaving Lieutenant Gift, with the two launches, to follow as soon as possible. On the way down the river the boats were divided into two divisions; the officers and men stationed; instructions given; arms distributed, etc. The delay in starting, as well as the intricacy of the channel, prevented our reaching New Berne until 4 a. m., on the 1st instant, and then a fog rendered everything obscure. Passing up and down in front of the town without discovering the enemy, the near approach of daylight caused a move up the river to Bachelor’s [Batchelder’s] Creek. The men, too, were exhausted, having pulled 60 miles almost uninterruptedly. Communicated with General Pickett, who during the day drove the enemy inside of his works around the town.
Reconnoitered the harbor; only one gunboat in sight. At sunset Lieutenant Gift joined with the launches; soon after started down the river again, pulling for the position of the gunboat. Boarded; one division forward, the other aft. She was carried in a few minutes with some loss. All hands were stationed beforehand, and they promptly repaired to their stations. Preparations were made for getting underway, the fires spread, chains slipped, and an effort made to tow her off with the launches, but failed to save her, for she was moored head and stern close inshore, so that all her guns could bear upon the land approaches, her steam low, with the fires banked, and soon after boarding the enemy opened with both artillery and small arms, the first shot raking the vessel. The wounded and prisoners were passed into the boats. Firing the vessel, returned up the river to the rendezvous.
It was the gunboat Under-writer, of 325 tons, with a battery of two VIII-inch shell guns, one 30-pounder rifle, and one 12-pounder howitzer; a crew of 72 men, according to her watch bill, and 12 or 15 officers. Acting Master Westervelt commanded. He was wounded and escaped, as did a number of her crew, by jumping overboard and swimming ashore. Several also escaped in the captain’s gig, which was alongside. I enclose a list of the prisoners brought off; also of the killed and wounded. Midshipman Saunders and Engineer Gill were most promising young officers and a loss to the service. Hawkins, Sullivan, and Marine Bell were excellent men, tried and faithful. Our troops falling back to Kinston caused a like movement with the boats.
To Lieutenant Loyall, the executive officer, the success of the expedition is greatly due. The organization and discipline of the command were maintained during our entire absence by his bravery and efficiency. I recommend him most heartily to the notice of the Department for promotion. Of all the other officers I can only say they were ever zealous and prompt. I do not believe a finer body of young officers or men was ever brought together. They are a credit to any service. Captain Wilson, with 25 marines, rendered most valuable services. Lieutenant Lakin, with 30 men from the United Artillery, joined (through some delay in the transmission of his orders) too late to take an active part, but they were ready and anxious for work.
Arriving at Kinston, Lieutenant Porcher, with the detachment from Charleston, was ordered to return immediately to that place. The others awaited orders from Richmond until the 10th instant, when they returned by the same route.
I enclose a list of the men and officers engaged.
Respectfully, etc., your obedient servant, J. Taylor Wood, [Commander,] C.S. Navy.
Hon. S.R. Mallory, Secretary of the Navy.
Unofficial letter of Lieutenant Gift, C.S. Navy, to Commander Jones, C.S. Navy, making reference to expedition.
RICHMOND, VA., February 13, 1864.
DEAR. SIR:
I was with Wood in his late expedition to New Berne, N. C., which resulted in the cutting out and destruction of the U. S. gunboat Underwriter. It was a bold design and well executed, and Wood deserves much credit. All is due to him and Loyall, as the bulk of the work fell upon the two leading boats. The enemy were up in good season, but could not train their great guns, but their fire from small arms was quite severe. Our loss was about 20 in killed and wounded; theirs about the same. I make the following diagram to explain the matter better.
As soon as the firing ceased on board Fort Stevens [Stevenson] opened with a heavy rifled gun, her first shot striking the upper works and walking beam. The vessel had no steam, and we could not slip her chain and tow her off with the boats. Therefore we were compelled to abandon and fire her and thread our way back from under the forts. Our force consisted, I think, of about 250 seamen and landsmen, 25 marines, and about 30 officers, in twelve cutters and surfboats and two launches, the latter carrying 45 men each and two 12-pounder boat howitzers. But a small portion of our men were engaged. The weight of the fighting modesty personified, conceives boldly and executes with skill and courage. The original design was to attack and cut out some four or five vessels that were accustomed to lay in the river, but unfortunately this one was all that could be found.
I trust that I have not tired you by this long and disjointed recital of my own wants and expectations. I hope to hear from you soon after getting to Columbus.
I am, with great respect, your friend and obedient servant, George W.
Gift.
[Commander Gatesby AP R. Jones.]
Letter of commendation from Commander Wood, C. S. Navy, to the Colonel Commandant of C.S. Marine Corps regarding the conduct of Captain Wilson and his men.
HEADQUARTERS C.S. MARINE CORPS, Richmond, Va., February 16, 18064
SIR: It gives me pleasure to report to you the fine bearing and soldierly conduct of Captain Wilson and his men whilst absent on special duty. Though their duties were more arduous than those of the others, they were always prompt and ready for the performance of all they were called upon to do. As a body they would be a credit to any organization, and I will be glad to be associated with them on duty at any time.
Respectfully, etc., your obedient servant,
J . Taylor Wood. Colonel L. BEALL, Commanding Marine Corps.
Extract from report of the Secretary of the Navy of the Confederate States, April 80, 1864.
On the 2d of February last a naval force consisting of 33 officers and 220 men, embracing a portion of the Marine Corps under Captain T. S. Wilson, and all under the immediate command of Commander John Taylor Wood, and which was organized at Richmond to cooperate with the military forces in North Carolina, boarded and captured the Federal gunboat Underwriter, of four guns and a crew of 85 officers and men, immediately under the enemy’s batteries at New Berne.
The heavy enfilading fire of the shore batteries prevented him from bringing the vessel, which he destroyed. Our loss was 5, including 2 gallant and promising young officers, Midshipman P. Saunders and First Assistant Engineer E. J . Gill, who fell in a hand-to-hand conflict on the enemy’s decks. The enemy was at quarters and received our advancing boats with a fire of heavy guns and small arms. A copy of the report of Commander Wood of this brilliant exploit, which reflects great credit‘ upon himself and his command, is herewith submitted.
Letter from Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, to the commanding officer at Roanoke Island, N. C.
U. S. S. HETZEL, Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, February 2, 1864.
SIR: I send with this a very important dispatch to Acting Rear Admiral S. P. Lee. I wish you would send it by some trusty person, with all possible dispatch. Should any accident occur in the canal, I request that you give directions to the person who takes it to destroy it. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander and Senior Naval
Officer in Sounds of North Carolina.
COMMANDING OFFICER or THE POST AT ROANOKE ISLAND.
Report of Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, to Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U.S. Navy, requesting reinforcements in the sounds.
U.S.S. Hetzel, Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, February 2, 1864 -Midnight.
ADMIRAL: I have just received a dispatch from General Palmer informing me that— ~
New Berne is now besieged by a very large force, and our communications with the coast cut oil; that the river communications are liable to be cut off by batteries erected in the river.
The Underwriter was this morning boarded, captured, and burned by the enemy.
In view of these facts I have directed Lieutenant-Commander Flusser to repair here with all the force from Plymouth.
I respectfully and earnestly request that I may be strongly reinforced as early as possible. I am now on my way to New Berne.
I send this by the Colyer to Roanoke Island, and hope it will reach you as soon as possible.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander and Senior Naval Officer in Sounds of North Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
Order of Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, to Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, U. S. Navy, to send gunboats to New Berne.
U. S. S. HETZEL, Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, February 2, 1864--Midnight. SIR: New Berne is besieged and our communications with the coast cut off. The Underwriter has been taken by the enemy and burned. Send all the gunboats you can spare to New Berne with all dispatch. The river communications are liable to be out off by batteries erected on the river. I think upon the whole you had better bring the Miami with yourself, the Southfield, and Whitehead. The captain of the steamer Colyer will give you all the particulars. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander and Senior Officer.
Lieutenant-Commander Charles W. Flusser,
Commanding U. S. S. Miami, Plymouth, N. C.
Report of Commander Dove, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. naval station, Beaufort, N. C., regarding Confederate attack on New Berne, N. C.
U. S. NAVAL STATION, Beaufort, N. C., February 3, 1864.
SIR: On Monday, 1st instant, Colonel Jourdan, commanding the subdistrict at Morehead City, sent word in me that he had been attacked and wished to see me.
On reaching the railroad depot I found that New Berne had been invested by a large force of rebels; the train due at 11 a.. m. had not been able to get there, and that the telegraph wire had been tapped. I immediately made the best disposition of the force at my disposal. The Nansemond, which had arrived the day previous, was sent up Bogue Sound as far as her draft of water would permit, and the Mercedita was towed up by the army and navy tugs into position guarding the railroad depot and approaches to it. At night the launch which I fitted up in haste with the howitzer of the Release and two other boats armed were sent into the sound on picket duty. .
Yesterday a freight train and some passengers got through from New Berne. By them I learned the capture and destruction of the Underwriter. She was boarded by six boats, fired, and blown up. Most of the officers and crew were taken prisoners. The Emma arrived in the afternoon and was stationed about the depot. Our situation at present is: The blockhouse above Carolina City has been captured; Newport Barracks, [N . C4), has been burned, and our troops have fallen back to intrenchments a out a mile beyond Morehead City. The Ninth Vermont Regiment, which occupied Newport Barracks, crossed the river and came into Beaufort by the New Berne road. Intrenchments have been thrown up in its rear, and today there has been no further attack. The small force of the army on duty here is much exhausted and needs strong reinforcements. The navy requires light-draft gunboats to go up Newport River and in the sound. .
The enemy have crossed over on Bogue Island [Banks], too, but in what force I could not learn, nor are we able to learn exactly the number approaching this place. We need support and that speedily. I will make a reconnaissance of Bogue Island [Banks] in the first blockader which arrives. It is somewhat unfortunate that we should have so few of them here at this critical juncture.
The army having fallen back to their intrenchments, the Nansemond is covering the left of the line on Bogue Sound. The launch is on the other side, where the water is shallow, and a system of signals has been established.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
BENJ. M. Dove, Commander.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Hampton Roads.
[Telegram ]
Fortress MONROE, February 3, 1864.
(Received 4: 30 p. m.)
I am informed by Brigadier-General Palmer that his outposts have been driven in at 8 o’clock on the lst day of February by an attack on New Berne by a force estimated at about 15,000 men. He expresses his confidence in holding the place, but I inform you in order that you may make any disposition of the naval force in his aid. The Spaulding would sail at 2 o’clock. I shall keep her till I hear from you.
[B. F. BUTLER.]
Admiral LEE.
[Telegram.]
FEBRUARY 3, 1864.-5:30 p. m. The senior naval officer at New Berne will best know the situation and dispose gunboats accordingly. No additional naval force can be spared from here.
S. P. LEE, Acting Rear-Admiral. General BUTLER.
Order of Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U. S. Navy, to Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, regarding disposition of gunboats at New Berne.
U. S. Flagship MINNESOTA, Off Newport News, Va., February 3, 1864-5 p. m.
SIR Dispose of the gunboats as the necessity of the situation may require. Send a special messenger with a list of the kinds and quantity of any additional ammunition you may require. Keep me advised of the situation and of whatever you may require.
Respectfully, yours,
S. P. LEE, Actg. Rear-Admiral, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, U. S. S. Hetzel, New Berne.
Letter of Brigadier- General Palmer, U. S. Army, to Commander Davenport, U. S. Navy, regarding measures for the defense of New Berne, N. O.
Headquarters ARMY AND DISTRICT gm] North Carolina,
New Berne, February 3, 1864.
SIR: We know that the enemy has some flats in which a descent may be made by the way of the river. I would request, therefore, that the upper Neuse be picketed and patrolled. I have placed the steamers Eagle and Allison in charge of some naval officers detailed by Captain Graves in your absence, and I think you have a sufficient number of small boats at your command. I can furnish details from one of the regiments here for boat parties if you desire it. I think it necessary for this matter to be attended to seriously.
I am, commander, very respectfully, yours,
I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General. Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, Senior Naval Officer, etc.
Fort MONROE, Va., February 4, 1864-9:30 p. m.
(Received 10:45 p. m.)
Last evening General Butler informed me that General Palmer reported that his outposts at New Berne had been driven in on the evening of the 1st instant by a force estimated at 15,000 men.
I immediately telegraphed Commodore Dornin to send here with all dispatch the gunboats from the sounds, repairing at Baltimore. Commander Davenport, under date of the 2d, in Pamlico Sound, received this evening, reports that he had just received a dispatch from General Palmer, saying that New Berne is now besieged by a very large force and our communications with the coast, meaning Beaufort, are now cut off, and that his communications by Neuse River are liable to be out off' by batteries erected on that river; that the gunboat Underwriter was that day boarded, captured, and burned by the enemy. The Miami
(Flusser) and other gunboats have gone from Plymouth to New Berne. Commander Davenport earnestly asks to be largely reinforced.
I wish to have four gunboats carrying heavy guns, draft not exceeding 81; feet, double-enders, capable of fighting one (two would be better) heavy gun on end, are preferred. Please let me know what can be done, and when. I am sending extra ammunition for the guns now there.
S. P. LEE, Acting Rear-Admiral. Hon.
Gideon WELLES, Secretary of the N any.
Report of Lieutenant-Commander Barnes, U. S. Navy, regarding condition - of affairs at New Berne.
U. S. Tue POPPY, Hampton Roads, February 4, 1864-1012. m.
MY DEAR. ADMIRAL: I have just left the general, and have explained, as you desired, our situation. The following additional particulars have just been received:
The enemy are mostly on the south side of the Trent, in number not more than 8,000. Their efforts are principally against Fort Gaston, which holds out manfully and is likely to do so. There is a small force on the north side, but inactive. There is plenty of ammunition and ninety days’ provisions at New Berne. Citizens (white and black) to the number of five full companies, have volunteered for the defense of the place, and are under arms in the intrenchments. Palmer is reasonably confident, and General Butler thinks he can make a long siege of it. He does not entertain the idea of going there himself. He says that everything has been done that can be, and if the fortifications are worth a. cent, the place can stand the attack.
The Underwriter was lying aground off Foster’s Wharf at 3 o’clock on the morning of the 2d instant. Several of her boats were away on some sort of an expedition, object unknown. The enemy approached in boats and answered their hail properly; mistaking them for her own boats, they were permitted to come alongside and get on board without hindrance. The rebels then set fire to her and she soon blew up, all this within a few hundred yards from the general’s headquarters. Most of the officers and crew were then captured, and the enemy were proceeding to carry their prisoners off in their boats when our people, headed, as it is understood, by Engineer Allen, rose upon their captors in the boats, seized the officers and men, and brought them safely into New Berne, where they now are. So there is a little leaven to the loaf. The enemy is reported as moving on Plymouth and Washington.
At 8 o’clock on the morning of the 2d, Flusser, with the Miami and three other gunboats, was at Northwest Point, mouth of the Neuse, on his way up to New Berne. The enemy have possession of Newport and communication with Beaufort is cut off. General Butler is going to send the Brewster to New Berne to-morrow forenoon, and if you have any dispatches, he will delay her for you. If you have nothing to send, please telegraph him in the morning. He has just received a dispatch from Mr. Fox, saying that he (Mr. Fox) will be here Saturday, wind and weather permitting. I have sent the telegrams and have delivered the order in regard to ammunition to Commander Lynch.
Very truly and respectfully,
J. S. BARNES.
Report of Fleet Paymaster Upham, U._ S. Navy, referring to the ‘investment by the enemy of New Berne, N. C’.
NAVAL STORE House, Bogue Island, February 4, 1864.
SIR: This part of the country is in a terrible state of excitement. The rebels are in full force in this district, estimated at from 6,000 to 25,000. New Berne is strongly invested and surrounded, it is said. Newport taken after a very severe fight, in which the Ninth Vermont lost 160 men. Rebels’ loss said to be 500, camp and stores of all kinds burned before leaving. Beaufort and Morehead threatened, but it is believed that the gunboats and fort can hold both places. Women and children in fort or on hoard ships. A large quantity of naval stores already destroyed. It will be impossible to get at the amount at present. The railroad and telegraph in possession of the enemy.
I shipped yesterday and the day before most of the stores in this vicinity, say about $20,000 worth. It was very fortunate I was on the ground, as in the excitement no one else would have attended to naval stores. I do not think it would be proper or prudent for me to leave the ground until I see how matters are to terminate. My main agent, Mr. McChesney, was taken prisoner on Monday while attending to his business near Batchelder’s Greek, which fact makes it much more necessary that I should be here at least for a short time.
I received a telegram from Paymaster Mellach on Monday in which he said, “My money is safe." .
I hope the naval stores at New Berne are safe. I trust the gunboats will protect them. Mr. Wood’s clerk was at New Berne on Saturday; says he left there the Commodore Hull, Underwriter, Lockwood, Hetzel, and he thinks one other. The Underwriter was a total loss. It is understood here that about one-half of officers and crew off the ship were away on duty, the balance taken prisoners.
It is believed here that the rebels have been repulsed at Fort Totten, and that New Berne may hold out until reinforcements arrive.
Two thousand Union troops only at New Berne and 600 at the fort, Morehead, and Beaufort, a very small force to cope with a large desperate force of from 10,000 to 20,000 men. You will receive an official statement of facts from Captain Dove, and please receive this as a simple memorandum.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES O. UPHAM, U. S. Navy.