Official Records of the Union and Confederate Navies
Abstract Log of the U.S.S. Ceres | Confederate Navy Records
Union Navy Records
Series 1, Volume IX
page 194
Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Behm, U.S. Navy, regarding reported progress on the Confederate ironclad ram, and suggesting measures of defense.
U.S.S. SOUTHFIELD,
Off Plymouth, N.C., September 8, 1863.
SIR: When up at Hyman’s Ferry day before yesterday, I was informed both by Mr. Hyman and Mr. Bell (men from whom Captain Flusser has been in the habit of getting Southern papers and information) that a force of from 400 to 500 men were at work on the ironclad battery and ram, and that even the guns for both were already there. They told me that the engine out of the Cotton Plant was being put into the ram, and that it was their intention to have both ready in a month, or at the latest in six weeks, and that they (the rebels) then intended to make an attack on Plymouth both by land and water.
I have thought it my duty to give you this information direct as soon as possible, the more so as I understand that the Hetzel is not at New Berne at present, and in the absence of Captain Davenport my letter might lie there for a long time.
It is impossible for me to say what truth there may be in this information, but Messrs. Hyman and Bell seemed both confident that their statements could be relied upon. With the strong conservative movement at present taking place in North Carolina, I should think it not unlikely that the rebel Government at Richmond would make a strong effort to crush this, and certainly this could be no better done than by a recovery of Plymouth and New Berne. If the ironclad ram is really as formidable as people say it is, there is no gunboat in the sounds which could, except by chance, injure the ram, and as regards the obstructions about Plymouth, they do not amount to anything and could not stop a wooden propeller. The only thing would be a number of effective torpedoes or a light-draft ironclad, not to draw more than 8 feet. I trust you will excuse these suggestions, but if the report about those ironclads is true, and it may be so, something ought to be done, or the whole of the sounds may be lost again. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAS. F. W. BEHM, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding Southfield.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Newport News, Va.
page 627 - 647
Report of Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy, transmitting letters from Major-General Peck and Brigadier-General Wessells, U.S. Army, regarding afairs in the Roanoke River.
U.S.S. HETZEL,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 14, 1864 -10 p.m.
ADMIRAL: In consonance with the within request of General Peck, just brought me by General Palmer, I shall send the Tacony to Plymouth to-morrow morning.
Under the circumstances, I am sorry that the Commodore Perry is not here.
I have the honor to be, very 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.
[Enclosure.]
HDQRS. ARMY AND DISTRICT of NORTH CAROLINA,
New Berne, N.C., April 14, 1864.
COMMANDER: I enclose for your consideration a copy of a letter just received from General Wessells, commanding Sub-District of Albemarle. Under the circumstances, I feel impelled to suggest the sending of the steamer Tacony. General Palmer will call and confer upon the situation.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
John J. Peck, Major-General.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, Senior Naval Officer, Commanding Sounds of North Carolina, of New Berne.
[Subenclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS SUB-DISTRICT of THE ALBEMARLE,
Plymouth, N.C., April 13, 1864.
CAPTAIN: Information from several disconnected sources has reached me within two days past that a large force of the enemy (stated at 10,000 to 12,000) has assembled near Hamilton on this river [Roanoke], designing, in conjunction with an ironclad boat, to make an attack on Plymouth this week, a demonstration to be made toward New Berne at the same time. The persons from whom this report is derived reside in Bertie and Hertford counties, are all personally known to me, and I feel satisfied that they state what they believe to be true. They do not report from actual knowledge, but from statements made to them by others. Whether their informants are reliable or not, I am unable to judge; at all events, I do not feel disposed to neglect these warnings, and in view of their importance I request a temporary reinforcement of 5,000 men. The presence of the gunboat Commodore Perry, now, I believe, in James River, would, I think, put a stop to any further threats from the ironclad above us on this river.
It is proper to state further that information of a different character, derived from negroes and others, reaches me from this side of the Roanoke. Like that mentioned above, it is from hearsay, and denies that there is any formidable collection of troops in the locality above named. I am using every means in my power to arrive at the truth, but am compelled to depend upon such reports and through such channels as are accessible to my informants.
The condition of the river at this time is favorable to operations by water, being unusually high, whilst the condition of the creeks and swamps is not favorable for the movements of troops.
I should regret making any report not justified by future events, but must depend upon the best information within my reach, and there is too much at stake to neglect any reasonable warnings. A copy of this letter is sent direct to Department headquarters.
Respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. WESSELLS,
Brigadier-General Volunteers, Commanding.
Captain JUDSON, Assistant Adjutant-General, District of North Carolina.
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Order of Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy, to Lieutenant-Commander Truxtun, U.S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Tacony, to proceed to Plymouth, N.C.
U.S.S. HETZEL,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 14,1864.
SIR: Proceed forthwith, with the U.S.S. Tacony under your command, to Plymouth, N.C.
As soon as, in the opinion of yourself and Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, the services of your vessel are not required there, you will return to this place and report to me.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, H. K. DAVENPORT,
Commander and Senior Naval Oflicer in Sounds of North Carolina.
Lieutenant-Commander W. T. TRUXTUN, U.S. Navy, Commanding U.S.S. Tacony.
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Report of Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U.S. Navy, regarding the expected attack in the Roanoke River.
FLAGSHIP NORTH ATLANTIC BLOCKADING SQUADRON,
Off Newport News, Va., April 14, 1864.
SIR: Referring to the extracts from letter of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, of 27th ultimo, forwarded by me to the Department on the 2d instant, giving further reports in relation to the ram in the Roanoke River, and stating that there was every probability of the expected attack by the enemy being deferred six weeks, my reply, which should have been endorsed on the communication, was that it was proper to make every practicable disposition to meet the enemy and be ready for him, but at the same time I doubted if an attack were intended; that my idea was that the necessities of the enemy in Virginia would soon demand all his resources.
The report from Lieutenant-Commander Flusser that I forwarded yesterday confirms this view, as he says that it is stated by “men whose opinions are of value” that every man that can be spared has been sent, or is under orders to Richmond.
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.
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Report of Acting Rear-Admiral Lee, U.S. Navy, regarding afiairs in the Roanoke River.
FLAGSHIP NORTH ATLANTIC BLOCKADING SQUADRON,
Off Newport News, Va., April 15, 1864.
SIR: The Department’s confidential communication of the 13th was received to-day.
We have no certain information of any sort respecting the rebel ram reported to be on the Roanoke. The reports about her have been conflicting, especially as to the thickness of her iron plating.
Should this ram attack Plymouth, no doubt it will be vigorously fought by the Miami and Southfield, with what success will, in the absence of any ironclad or torpedo boats on our part, depend on its speed and plating.
There are two thoroughfares above the obstructions in the Roanoke, one or both of which seem, by the recent coast survey, to be a passage round to Plymouth below the obstructions.
The contemplated army operations up James River will require an additional naval force here—4 ironclads (2 of these as a necessary provision against loss by torpedoes), 8 or 10 effective double-enders, 12 swift, light-draft tugs, 2 steam transports, and several torpedo boats. The position of the army will have to be covered—it will, in fact, rest on a naval base—and its communications, exposed at several points, must be protected by the navy.
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, Washington, D.C.
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Letter from Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy, to Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, U.S. Navy, regarding launches.
U.S.S. HETZEL,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 16, 1864.
MY DEAR FLUSSER: If you have any launches at Plymouth that can be spared, I wish you would send them down here at once. Commander Dove, at Beaufort, has lost his, and is very much in want of some.
Yours, very truly,
H. K. DAVENPORT.
Lieutenant-Commander C. W. FLUSSER, U. S. Navy, Commanding U.S.S. Miami.
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page 634
Operations in defense of Plymouth, N.C., April 17-20, and the attack of the C.S. ram Albemarle upon the Federal fleet, April 19, 1864.
Preliminary report of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, U.S. Navy.
U.S.S. Miami,
Plymouth, N.C., April 17, 1864.
SIR: The enemy are about the town. They have fired on us to-day pretty lively. The Ceres (with her usual bad luck) had one killed and several wounded. I expect an attack about daylight to-morrow. I feel confident of success as far as we (the navy) are concerned. My plan of defense prevents me giving the army what aid I should wish before the ram is whipped. You need not be uneasy as to the result. I have written the admiral as I write you. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. W. FLUSSER, Lieutenant Commander.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT,
Senior Naval Officer, Inner Waters of North Carolina, U.S.S. Hetzel, New Berne, N.C.
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Report of Acting Master Foster, U.S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Ceres, regarding the engagement of that vessel with Confederate batteries near Fort Gray.
U.S.S. CERES,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 24, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report: While at Plymouth, N.C., on the 17th instant, at 5:40 p.m., I was ordered by Lieutenant-Commander C. W. Flusser to proceed with the Ceres under my command to Broad Creek, Roanoke River, with dispatches for U.S.S. Whitehead. I immediately got underway. Before reaching the lower obstructions near Fort Gray I observed a battery of six guns, apparently 20-pounders, on the port hand of the river, which opened fire upon us, striking vessel several times, destroying one of the boats and damaging the machinery, killing William Rose, first class fireman; mortally wounding Samuel Pascall, ship’s cook; dangerously wounding John Flynn, landsman; severely wounding George A. Dean, acting third assistant engineer; John Peterson, seaman; John Benson, landsman; and slightly wounding James B. Hopkins, acting master’s mate; John A. Frank, acting third assistant engineer, and J . R. Sherwood, acting third assist ant engineer. I returned their fire from the two 20-pounder Parrott guns of the Ceres, and at 6:30 p.m. communicated with the Whitehead and delivered the dispatches. Got underway and proceeded down the river for Plymouth at 8:35 p.m. On getting in range of the battery above Fort Gray they again opened fire with artillery and musketry, doing no material damage. I returned the fire as we passed. I arrived alongside the Miami and reported to Acting Volunteer Lieutenant C. A. French. The surgeons of the Miami and Southfield came on board and attended the wounded. On the morning of the following day, by order of Lieutenant-Commander C. W. Flusser, I sent the bodies of W. Rose and S. Pascall on shore for interment, which I was unable to effect (leaving them in the basement of the quartermaster’s building at Plymouth), as the services of the vessel were required. I also sent Mr. Dean, John Peterson, John Benson, and John Flynn to the post hospital. I was well pleased with the conduct of the oflicers and crew. The following amount of ordnance was expended, viz, 14 5-seconds shell for 20-pounder Parrott and 14 cylinders of 2 pounds of powder each for the same.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. FOSTER, Acting Master, Commanding.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
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Report of Assistant Surgeon Mann, U.S. Navy, regarding casualties on the U.S.S.. Ceres.
U.S. STEAM GUNBOAT MIAMI,
Off Plymouth, N.C., April 18, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following list of casualities on board the U.S.S. Ceres during the action of the 17th instant.
Killed.—William Rose, first-class fireman.
Wounded.--Acting Third Assistant Engineer George A. Dean; Acting Third Assistant Engineer John A. Frank, slightly; Acting Third Assistant Engineer John R. Sherwood, slightly; Acting Master’s Mate James B. Hopkins, slightly; Samuel Pascall, ship’s cook mortally; John Peterson, seaman; John Flynn, landsman, right arm amputated, and John Benson, landsman, severely.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM B. MANN, Assistant Surgeon.
Lieutenant-Commander C. W. FLUSSER,
Commanding U.S.S. Miami, and Senior Naval Ofiicer Present.
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FLAGSHIP NORTH ATLANTIC BLOCKADING SQUADRON,
Off Newport News, Va., April 23, 1864.
SIR: I herewith communicate to the Department Lieutenant-Commander Flusser’s dispatch of the 18th instant, received this evening.
It is probably the last dispatch penned by him, as it was written at half past 9 o’clock on the evening of the 18th, and at half past 3 o‘clock the next morning he was killed on the deck of the Miami before Plymouth in a night action with a ram.
This brave oflicer was a native of Maryland and a citizen of Kentucky.
His patriotic and distinguished services had won for him the respect and esteem of the Navy and the country. He was generous, good, and gallant, and his untimely death is a real and great loss to the public service.
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.
[Enclosure.]
U.S.S. MIAMI,
Plymouth, N.C., April 18, 1864.
SIR: We have been fighting here all day. About sunset the enemy made a general advance along our whole line. They have been repulsed. There is no firing now, 9:30 p.m. I am fearful our upper fort may be gone, but do not know anything certain about it. The Eighty-fifth Redoubt repulsed three severe assaults, but the enemy still occupy a position near it.
The ram will be down to night or to-morrow. I fear, for the protection of the town, I shall have to abandon my plan of fighting the ram, lashed to the Southfield.
The army ought to be reinforced at once. I think I have force enough to whip the ram, but not suflficient to assist in holding the town, as I should like. I to-day gave to Fort Gray 100 projectiles for Parrott 100-pounder rifle. If the enemy should make frequent assaults I shall need a large supply of powder and projectiles for 100-pounder Parrott, IX-inch Dahlgren, 24-pounder howitzers, and for the Ceres’ four 20-pounder Parrott rifles.
If we whip the ram the land force may retire. I have not heard of any casualties. In the action of yesterday the Ceres had 2 men killed and 7 wounded. Of the latter, four were officers, fortunately but one of them seriously hurt.
Reports of killed and wounded will be forwarded at once, so soon as time is had to make them out.
At present we are very busy, and the mail boat leaves in a few minutes.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. W. FLUSSER, Lieutenant- Commander.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE,
Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, off Newport News.
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Report of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, U.S. Navy.
U.S.S. MIAMI,
Plymouth, N.C., April 18, 1864.
MY DEAR DAVENPORT: The army has been engaged with the enemy off and on all day.
About sunset the rebs advanced along our whole line, but were driven back. They were obstinate and continued to fight till near 9 o’clock. The Southfield and Miami took part and the general says our firing was admirable.
I am fearful for Fort Gray. The enemy has established a battery of long-range guns above it,with which they would sink all our boats if we went near enough to the fort to fire grape and canister into the enemy’s infantry. They sunk the army steamer Bombshell to-day, temporarily under command of Ensign Stokes, who fought her well.
I gave the army to-day 100 projectiles for 100-pounder Parrott. Please send powder, shot, and shells for that gun, for IX-inch, and for 20-pounder Parrott.
The ram will be down tonight or to-morrow. She was, just after daylight this morning, foul of a tree 6 miles above Williamston. I think, if she does not stay under cover of their battery established above Fort Gray, that we shall whip her. I had to destroy the obstruction in the Thoroughfare, as the Whitehead was above and could not run by the battery placed below her on the Roanoke.
I have written the admiral.
The Eighty-fifth Redoubt repulsed three obstinate assaults, but the enemy remain near it.
In great haste.
Yours, sincerely, C. W. FLUSSER.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, etc.
Remember me to your officers. Did not know this sheet was blotted till I wrote the other side.
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Preliminary report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant French, U.S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Miami.
Unofficial.]
U.S.S. MIAMI
Off Mouth Roanoke River, Tuesday, April 19, 1864 - 6:30 a.m.
ADMIRAL: The ironclad ram on the Roanoke River made its appearance this morning at 3:30 o’clock. The Miami and Southfield, which had been separated to shell the enemy from different positions, had just been refastened, and they were driven by Captain Flusser straight on to the ram. She struck the Southfield slantwise and sunk her immediately. A few of my officers and men and myself had time to reach the Miami’s decks. Captain Flusser was killed in the early part of the engagement. We fired solid shot from both vessels, which glanced upward from her slanting sides. The Miami steamed down the river, finding that an attack by us would result in nothing else than the loss of another vessel.
Mr. Hackett, the paymaster of the vessel, will give you further particulars on his arrival at Hampton Roads.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, CHARLES A. FRENCH, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding.
[Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.]
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Report of Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy, transmitting report of Acting Assistant Paymaster Hackett, U.S. Navy.
U.S.S. HETZEL,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 20, 1864.
ADMIRAL: I enclose herewith a copy of a letter from Acting Assistant Paymaster F. W. Hackett, of the U.S.S. Miami, giving an account of the late affair at Plymouth.
As soon as Captain French’s report reaches me I will forward it.
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.
[Enclosure.]
U.S.S. MIAMI,
Off Mouth of Roanoke River, Tuesday, April 19, 1864 - 6 a.m.
SIR: Last night from about 6:30 to 8 the Miami and Southfield were engaged in shelling the enemy. On the news that the ram was below the blockade at Hyman’s Ferry, the Southfield was brought along side the Miami, and the two vessels were fastened together. At 3:30 a.m. the Ceres came down from picket duty at the town (the Miami and Southfield being at the lower picket station) and reported the ram coming down, firing. The batteries on shore did not fire.
By Captain Flusser’s command the two boats were driven ahead direct upon the ram. She struck the Southfield slantwise and tore a hole clear through to the boiler. Both vessels fired solid shot at her, but it had no effect on her slanting sides. The Southfield sank almost immediately. Nothing of her stores was saved. The Miami contined firing, but it was evident that the shot had no effect.
Captain Flusser was killed in the early part of the action, while pulling the lockstring of one of the guns forward. His body is being got ready now to be sent away on the Ceres.
Captain French and some of his officers reached the Miami. Others were taken prisoners. After the ram had sunk the Southfield she followed the Miami, which steamed slowly down the river. The ram fired two shells at the Miami while going down the river, but they did us no damage.
Captain French has held a consultation of officers as to what had best be done under the circumstances. The garrison at Plymouth must be captured, as things now are. The opinion of all the officers who saw the ram and the effect of solid shot upon her agree that another attack would result only in the sinking of the Miami.
I have written the above in haste by Captain French’s orders, as he has not time to write himself at present.
Very respectfully, FRANK W. HAGKETT, Acting Assistant Paymaster.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT,
Senior Officer, Sounds North Carolina.
P. S.—Captain French is going up to reconnoiter in the Whitehead. He will report officially as soon as possible. The ram was accompanied by the Cotton Plant, steamer.
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Report of Acting Master Welles, U.S. Navy, executive officer U.S.S. MIAMI
U.S. STEAM GUNBOAT MIAMI,
Off the Mouth of the Roanoke River, April 23, 1864.
SIR: I beg leave to submit the following report of the attack on Plymouth, N.C., by the rebel forces, also the engagement on the morning of the 19th of April, between the hours of 3 and 5 a.m., with the naval fleet and the rebel ironclad ram.
The siege commenced Sabbath afternoon, April 17, by an artillery fire upon Fort Gray. Early in the morning of April 18, between the hours of 3 and 5, the enemy tried to carry by storm Fort Gray, but were repulsed. In the afternoon of the 18th heavy artillery opened fire upon the town and breastworks; then the fight became general. Up to this time the gunboats Southfield and Miami were chained together in preparation to encounter the ram. They were then separated. The Southfield, moving up the river, opened fire over the town.
The Miami, moving down the river, opened a cross fire upon the enemy, who were charging upon Fort Williams.
The firing, being very exact, caused the enemy to fall back, after three attempts to storm the fort. At 9 o’clock firing ceased from the enemy, they having withdrawn from range. Commander Flusser dispatched a messenger to General Wessells to learn the result of the day’s fight. The messenger returned at 10 p. m., having delivered the message, and bearing one from General Wessells to Commander Flusser, stating that the fire from the naval vessels was very satisfactory and effective, so much so that the advancing columns of the enemy broke and retreated; also desired that the Miami might be kept below the town to prevent a flank movement by the enemy.
At 10:30 p.m. steamer Southfield came down and anchored near.
At 12:20 a.m., April 19, the Southfield came alongside to rechain the two steamers as speedily as possible, the ram having been seen by Captain [G. W.] Barrett, of the Whitehead, and reported by him as coming down the river. At 3:45 a.m. the gunboat Ceres came down, passing near, giving the alarm that the ram was close upon her. I immediately hastened to acquaint Commander Flusser of the information. He immediately came on deck and ordered both vessels to steam ahead as fast as possible and run the ram down. No sooner than given was the order obeyed. Our starboard chain was slipped and bells rung to go ahead fast.
In obedience to the order the steamers in one minute were moving up the river, the ram making for us. In less than two minutes from the time she was reported she struck us upon our port bow near the water line, gouging two planks nearly through for 10 feet, at the same time striking the Southfield with her prow upon the starboard bow, causing the Southfield to sink rapidly. As soon as the battery could be brought to bear upon the ram both steamers (the Southfield and Miami) commenced firing solid shot from the 100-pounder Parrott rifles and IX-inch Dahlgren guns, they making no perceptible indentations in her armor. Commander Flusser fired the first three shots personally from the Miami, the third being a 10-second Dahlgren shell, IX-inch.
It was directly after that fire that he was killed by pieces of shell; several of the gun’s crew were wounded at the same time.
Our bow hawser being stranded, the Miami swung around to starboard, giving the ram a chance to pierce us.
Necessity required the engine to be reversed in motion to straighten the vessel in the river, to prevent going upon the bank of the river, and to bring the rifle gun to bear upon the ram. During the time of straightening the steamer the ram had also straightened and was making for us. From the fatal effect of her prow upon the Southfield, and of our sustaining injury, I deemed it useless to sacrifice the Miami in the same way.
It becomes my painful duty to report to you the death of Lieutenant Commander Charles W. Flusser in the action with the rebel ram on the morning of April 19. The loss to the country of such a brave, gallant, zealous, and energetic officer is irreparable, and of him we mourn. To speak of him is but to praise him, for to the last his example was that of patriotism and of honor to the flag.
Assistant Surgeon William B. Mann’s report of the killed and wounded has been previously forwarded by Acting Volunteer Lieutenant C. A. French, senior naval officer present.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Wm. N. WELLES, Acting Master and Executive Officer.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
Reports of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant French, U.S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Miami.
U.S.S. MIAMI,
Off Roanoke River, April 21, 1864.
ADMIRAL: On the morning of the 19th I sent a dispatch by the pay master of this vessel, informing you of the death of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, and of the loss of the Southfield by the rebel ram Albemarle, commanded by Lieutenant [J . W.] Cooke, formerly of the U. S. Navy.
For the want of time I could not go into details, but requested the paymaster to give you the particulars to the best of his knowledge.
Enclosed I send you a report of the action direct (and a copy to Commander Davenport), presuming you were anxious to learn the state of affairs at Plymouth as speedily as possible.
I shall also explain to Commander Davenport my reason for so doing. In regard to my conduct in this affair I refer you more particularly to my report. Had I not been confident that this boat would have met the fate of the Southfield, had I come in contact the second time, I should never have left her, but after having had so severe a test, I became satisfied that our shot had no effect, and it was worse than useless, in my opinion, to attempt to run on her prow. She has two propellers and can be managed very expertly, and has a great advantage over a vessel of this kind. Under those disadvantages I deemed it my duty to withdraw and save these boats, for I am fully of opinion that nothing but an iron ram can contend with her in the river, and I trust my course will meet your approval.
I am now keeping a close watch of her movements at the mouth of the river, with the Whitehead in company, and shall remain until further orders from Commander Davenport.
I have received, and am receiving, many escaped soldiers and refugees who have taken to the swamp, and have detained the army transport Massasoit for the purpose of conveying them to Roanoke Island.
The town of Plymouth surrendered to the rebels yesterday after a desperate but brave defense. I learn it was unconditional. Our loss very small; that of the rebels extremely heavy. These particulars I get from a reliable citizen, who left town after the surrender. I went up in the Whitehead yesterday in sight of the lower fort, not then knowing the result, and rescued many persons who had taken to the woods. The ram then lay abreast of the town. I hope to hear from Captain Davenport to-morrow.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Charles A. French, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
P. S.—Since writing the above I received intelligence from a man just from town that the ram was to go to Roanoke as soon as arrangements could be made for her to leave. Respectfully, C. A. F.
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U.S.S. MIAMI,
Off Roanoke River, North Carolina, April 21, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the engagement off Plymouth, N.C.:
Previous to the action Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, having received information that we were to be attacked by a rebel ram, had lashed the Miami and Smithfield together, with intention of engaging her in this manner. At 4:30 p.m. on the evening of 17th instant the attack was commenced by the land forces of the enemy driving in our pickets. At 6 p.m. the enemy planted a battery up the river and opened upon Fort Gray, when Lieutenant Commander Flusser ordered the Ceres up the river to communicate with the Whitehead, which lay at the upper obstructions. She returned at 9 p.m., having lost 2 men and several wounded. The enemy ceased firing at 10 p.m. At daylight on the morning of the 18th instant heavy firing commenced up the river and was kept up until 6 p.m., when the enemy made a general assault upon the town. At 6:15 p. m. the Miami and Southfield cast loose; the Southfield took position above and Miami below the town, and opened a cross fire on the enemy until 10 p.m., when the enemy were repulsed. At 11 p.m. the Whitehead returned from the blockade and reported having seen the ram pass through the obstructions. The Southfield was ordered alongside this vessel to relash at once, but before the coupling was completed the ram made her appearance, when Lieutenant-Commander Flusser ordered both vessels to go ahead fast and meet the ram. She glanced along the Miami’s port bow, and, striking the Southfield on her starboard bow, her prow cut through the forward store room and into the fire room. Almost at the moment of contact our two vessels opened a rapid fire, both of great guns and musketry, which was maintained by the Southfield until she sunk, about three minutes from the time of contact. The ram opened fire with her bow pivot gun and kept up a continuous hail of musketry. When I found the Southfield sinking I ordered her crew to leave in the boats. At this moment the Miami’s stern swung into us, and I then ordered such men as could do so to jump on to her decks, and did so myself. On enquiring for Captain Flusser, I found he had been mortally wounded at the commencement of the action. I then assumed command, and maintained the fire at close quarters until the ram backed off for the purpose of running into the Miami. I then ordered the three steamers, Miami, Whitehead, and Ceres to drop slowly down the river, avoiding contact with the ram, to wait till daylight.
As far as we discover our shots fell harmlessly on the ironclad sides of the ram. The fatal effect of her prow had been but too fully demonstrated on the ill-fated Southfield, and under these circumstances I reluctantly concluded to withdraw from the river, being fully convinced that had we closed with this vessel it would have resulted in her loss. I am now at its mouth, watching the movements of the ram, where I shall again engage her if she attempts to come out, as I shall have sufficient room to avoid her prow.
Annexed you will find Assistant Surgeon Mann’s report of killed and wounded.
Seven officers and 38 men from the Southfield came on board this vessel. The greater portion of those missing are believed to be prisoners.
I regret to report the death of that gallant oflicer Lieutenant Commander Charles W. Flusser, who perished instantly from the effects of a fragment of a shell while cheering on and inspiring his men.
Amount of ammunition expended on the Southfield during the afternoon and night was about 200 rounds. Trusting my conduct will meet your approbation,
I am, very respectfully, etc., your obedient servant,
CHARLES A. FRENCH, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding, late of Southfield.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Hampton Roads.
[Enclosure]
U.S. STEAM GUNBOAT MIAMI,
Off the Mouth of Roanoke River, April 19, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following list of casualties on board this vessel during the action this morning:
Killed.-Lieutenant-Commander Charles W. Flusser, commanding.
Wounded.—Acting Ensign Thomas G. Hargis; Acting Third Assist ant Engineer Denis Harrington; Henry Scott, seaman; Isaac Anderson, seaman; Henry Johnson, seaman; John Rankin, seaman; Jeremiah Lyons, ordinary seaman; Joseph Eckert, private Marine Corps; Charles Cappus, landsman; John O’Hearn, landsman; and John Maddox, landsman.
Killed, 1; wounded, 11.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM B. MANN, Assistant Surgeon.
Acting Volunteer Lieutenant CHARLES A. FRENCH, Senior Naval Oflieer Present.
Report of Acting Ensign Barrett, U.S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Whitehead.
U.S.S. WHITEHEAD,
Off Mouth of Roanoke River, April 21, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report to you the part taken by this vessel during the late attack on Plymouth by the rebels which ended in its capture by them.
At 2 p.m. of the 17th instant I was ordered by Captain Flusser to proceed up the Roanoke River and anchor a short distance below the blockade of sunken schooners near Hyman’s Ferry, to guard the blockade and watch for and give notice of the approach of the rebel ram. The U.S.S. Ceres, which we relieved, then proceeded down to Plymouth. At 5:30 p.m. a rapid fire of artillery was heard in the direction of the town, the cause of which was ascertained by the arrival of the U.S.S. Ceres at 6:10, who reported having been fired on by a rebel battery of fieldpieces above Fort Gray and several of her crew killed and wounded.
She brought a dispatch from Captain Flusser stating that the rebels were said to be approaching in force on the Jamesville road and warning me to be in readiness for any emergency.
The Ceres returned down the river shortly after 8 o’clock.
At 5 a.m. of the 18th heavy firing was heard in the direction of Plymouth, which was kept up during the whole day. A boat from the steamer Ceres arrived from Plymouth with a dispatch from Captain Flusser at 4:30.
At 8:10 p.m. the lights on two steamers were discovered coming round the bend of the river above us. We immediately slipped our cable, went to quarters, and dropped slowly down the river, waiting to see if the ram successfully passed the obstructions.
In compliance with my orders, I then sent up a rocket to warn our forces at Plymouth of the rebel ram's approach. A moment afterwards it was answered by a rocket from one of the rebel steamers, they evidently mistaking our signal for one from their forces near Plymouth. My retreat down the river being cut off by rebel batteries near Fort Gray, I was ordered by Captain Flusser to retreat, if closely pressed by the enemy, by way of the Upper Thoroughfare. When the enemy answered my rocket I saw that they had passed the blockade of sunken vessels, and I steamed immediately for the Thoroughfare, which is a natural sluice connecting the Roanoke and Cashie rivers, and is very narrow and crooked.
As I entered it the current swept me over against the bank and the Vessel grounded.
A line was run to the opposite bank and her bows swung into the river, but her stern remained immovable. Our position at this moment was rather critical, for the rebel steamers were both close at hand, and in a few moments more they would open the entrance of the Thoroughfare, when our presence would be discovered. Fortunately at this time we started ahead and ran for the pile blockade, which was about 50 yards farther, and through which we intended to force our way. Here we stuck fast again between the piles. The engines were immediately stopped and perfect silence kept on board, and the rebel steamers passed on down the river in full view of us.
The engines were then started ahead again, and we succeeded in forcing our way through the piles, though in doing so we sustained serious damage on account of the shoe which kept the heel of the rudder and iron sternpost in place being wrenched from its fastenings and lost. We then passed into the Cashie River and proceeded with all possible dispatch for Plymouth.
At 12:30 a.m. of the 19th I anchored off Plymouth and reported to Captain Flusser that the ram was at Warren Neck. All was quiet until 3:15 a.m., when the steamer Ceres, which had been coaling along side the wharf, came down and reported that the rebel ram was coming. A few moments afterwards the ram struck the steamer Southfield and became wedged between her and the Miami.
My position was about 50 yards astern of the vessels engaged, but owing to the darkness I could not deliver my fire without endangering our own men.
The Southfield sank in a few moments, and the U.S.S. Miami, becoming disengaged from them, dropped slowly down the river.
I was then ordered to proceed down the river ahead of the Miami, keeping near her to render assistance, if necessary.
Arriving in Albemarle Sound, we came to anchor near the mouth of Roanoke River.
I have no casualties to report.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. W. BARRETT, Acting Ensign, Commanding.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, Senior Naval Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
Report of Acting Assistant Surgeon Pursell, U.S. Navy.
FLAGSHIP NORTH ATLANTIC BLOCKADING SQUADRON,
Off Newport News, Va., April 21, 1864.
SIR: At about 5:30 p.m., April 17, Fort Gray, above Plymouth, was attacked by the rebels from a battery of six fieldpieces on a sand bank some 500 or 1,000 yards up the river. Lieutenant-Commander Flusser dispatched the Ceres to communicate with the Whitehead, which was doing picket duty up the river.
In passing up by the rebel battery she received a shot through her port gangway, killing 2 and wounding 7 men. Firing upon the fort ceased at about 9 o‘clock, the Ceres returning about this time. At early dawn on Monday, the 18th, the enemy charged upon Fort Gray and were repulsed. The Bombshell, then in command of Acting Ensign Thomas B. Stokes, steamed up the river to communicate with the fort, receiving several shots and put in a sinking condition. After communicating with the fort she returned and sank at the wharf.
Later in the day the enemy appeared in force in rear of the town and at sunset commenced a vigorous attack upon Fort Williams and Fort Wessells, at which time the Miami and Southfield, previously chained together, were cast loose. The Southfield steamed up the river to protect Fort Wessells, whilst the Miami dropped down the river and shelled the enemy in front of Fort Williams. During the evening the enemy assaulted Fort Wessells and were repulsed three times, the Southfield throwing shell among the enemy. At about 10:30 p.m. the Southfield dropped down the river and reported to Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, who ordered the vessels to be lashed together with hawsers, the Southfield being on the port side of the Miami. At about midnight the Whitehead came down the Cashie and came up alongside the Miami, reporting the ram on the way down, the Ceres returning about the same time, having been sent around through the Cashie to communicate with the Whitehead.
About 3 a.m. on Tuesday, the 19th, the ram dropped down along the left bank of the river (under cover of the shade of the trees) with the current, and when near ran obliquely across into the starboard bow of the Southfield.
We had been firing shell the previous evening at the enemy on shore, and the guns of both vessels were left loaded with shell, which there was not time to draw. Lieutenant-Commander Flusser fired the first shell at her, and, upon its bursting, some fragments, either from this or from the Southfield’s shells, rebounded and caused the death of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, also wounding the officers and men below mentioned, the fragments piercing his chest, face, and skull.
Upon the approach of the ram the Southfield also fired at her. The prow of the ram running into the Southfield caused her to fill with water and she sank inside of fifteen minutes.
The forward lashings were parted by the pressure of the ram between our vessels, and the after ones were then cut, and as many as could get on board of the Miami did so, when the Miami retired and was followed a short distance by the ram, which was considered slow, making about 4 knots per hour, the Miami, however, throwing solid shot at her as she retired.
Some of the men of the Southfield took the small boats and were picked up by the Whitehead and Ceres.
The gunboats Miami, Whitehead, and Ceres returned to the mouth of the river and came to anchor.
The Ceres was dispatched to New Berne immediately with the body of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser.
The officers missing from the Southfield were Acting Master William B. Newman, Acting Ensign Thomas B. Stokes, Acting Second Assistant Engineer William F. Goff, Acting Third Assistant Engineer John A. Strieby, Acting Master’s Mate George W. Pratt, and Paymaster’s Clerk George W. Brown. Some of the officers and men of the Southfield may have been captured, but most of them must have escaped; few or none were probably lost.
Acting Ensign Thomas G. Hargis and Acting Third Assistant Engineer [Denis] Harrington and some six or eight men were wounded, none mortally, of the Miami.
The Miami was uninjured. The ram is thought not to have used her guns whilst under our bows, nor could our guns then bear on her. The shell fired at her was when she approached, and her firing, which seemed to be from small guns, was while the Miami retreated, when she was struck by a glancing shot from the ram.
Very respectfully, etc., P. H. PURSELL, Acting Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Navy, late of Southfield.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
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Report of Acting Master Foster, U.S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Ceres.
U.S.S. CERES,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 20, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report that while on picket duty at Plymouth, N.C., with the Ceres under my command, on the morning of the 19th instant, 3:30 a.m., I discovered the rebel ram coming down the river. I ran down to the Miami and informed Lieutenant Commander C. W. Flusser that she was approaching. I then returned to the Ceres and proceeded to the Whitehead (three-quarters of a mile down the river) and informed her, also, of the approach of the ram, during which time the Miami and Southfield had engaged her. I then proceeded toward the vessels engaged and shortly observed the Miami coming down the river. I picked up a boat from the Southfield containing Acting Master W. F. Pratt, Acting Third Assistant Engineers J . B. Farrand and Joseph Watts, George Hendricks, seaman, R. McGra, landsman, Garter Campbell, landsman, R. Hill, landsman. I then followed the Miami, which had passed me, until ordered to go ahead. I communicated with the Miami again at the north side of Edenton Bay, and received from her the body of the late Lieutenant-Commander C. W. Flusser, killed during the action. I also received on board [Acting Assistant] Paymaster [F. W.] Hackett, of the Miami, the surgeon of the Southfield, Acting Ensign [T. G.] Hargis, of the Southfield, wounded, Acting Third Assistant Engineer [William] Moran, of the Miami, wounded, Captain Flusser’s clerk, and six refugees. I then received orders from Acting Volunteer Lieutenant C. A. French to proceed to New Berne and report to you, which I did, stopping at Roanoke Island on my way to give Surgeon |P. H.| Pursell, of the Southfield, an opportunity to get to Norfolk, also to land the refugees. I then started for New Berne and reported to yourself.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. FOSTER, Acting Master, Commanding.
Commander H. K. DAVENPORT, Senior Officer, Sounds of North Carolina.
Report of Commander Davenport, U.S. Navy, requesting a supply of ammunition.
U.S.S. HETZEL,
Off New Berne, N.C., April 19, 1864 - 11 p.m.
ADMIRAL: I have just received a letter from Lieutenant-Commander Flusser, who informs me that he has written to you direct, giving you the same intelligence.
In view of the present threatening state of affairs, and the hope that I shall be reinforced, I respectfully request that you will send a supply of ammunition for 100-pounder, IX-inch, and 20-pounder Parrott. I write in haste and will send the requisition in due form as soon as I have more leisure. I shall send orders immediately to the Tacony to return to Plymouth.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. K. DAVENPORT, Commander, U.S.N., Senior Officer in Sounds of North Carolina.
Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
General order of Major-General Peck, U.S. Army, announcing the fall of Plymouth, N.C., the capture of General Wessells, and the death of Lieutenant-Commander Flusser.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 66
HDQRS ARMY AND DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N.C., April 21, 1864.
With feelings of the deepest sorrow the commanding general announces the fall of Plymouth, N.C., and the capture of its gallant commander, Brigadier-General H. W. Wessells and his command. This result, however, did not obtain until after the most gallant and determined resistance had been made. Five times the enemy stormed the lines of the general and as many times were they handsomely repulsed with great slaughter; and but for the powerful assistance of the rebel ironclad ram and the floating iron sharpshooter battery, the Cotton Plant, Plymouth would still have been in our hands.
For their noble defense, the gallant General Wessells and his brave band deserve the warmest thanks of the whole country, while all will sympathize with them in their misfortune.
To the officers and men of the Navy the commanding general tenders his thanks for their hearty cooperation with the Army and the bravery, determination, and coolness that marked their part of the unequal contest. With sorrow he records the death of the noble sailor and gallant patriot Lieutenant-Commander C. W. Flusser, U.S. Navy, who, in the heat of battle, fell dead on the deck of his ship with the lanyard of his gun in his hand.
The commanding general believes that these misfortunes will tend not to discourage, but to nerve the Army of North Carolina to equal deeds of bravery and gallantry hereafter.
Until further orders the headquarters of the Sub-District of the Albemarle will be at Roanoke Island. The command devolves upon Colonel D. W. Wardrop, of the Ninety-ninth New York Volunteer Infantry.
By command of Major-General John J . Peck:
J. A. Judson, Assistant Adjutant-General.
[Telegram.]
FORTRESS MONROE, VA., April 22, 1864 - 12 midnight.
(Received Washington, 3 a.m. 23d.)
Have received particulars from the surgeon of the Miami.
Ram floated down the river in the night; passed the battery at Plymouth; first discovered immediately under the bows of the Miami fioating with the current. The Southfield and Miami were lashed together. Flusser went forward and sighted his bow gun loaded with shell, 10-second fuze. The shell struck the ironclad, rebounded, and killed Flusser instantly at the gun, one piece cutting his heart out. The ram then went into the Southfield and she sank in five minutes. The Miami cast loose and, being afraid she would run aground, backed down the river, firing at the ram, with what damage is not known. When Miami got into the sound she came to anchor and sent the Whitehead up to see what had become of the ironclad. The Ceres, gun boat, took Flusser’s body to Roanoke Island and brought away the surgeon with dispatches for Admiral Lee.
In the meantime the enemy had invested Plymouth and were threatening an assault. Our last report from General Wessells in command was that he was holding out and the enemy were engaged shelling the town. It is reported Plymouth is captured, but not credibly.
Ram is 125 feet long, draws 8 feet water, has two independent propellers, can make about 4 knots, has two guns, only 20-pounders. She will have done all the mischief she can do, probably, before our obstructions and your camels could be ready.
Admiral Lee has sent down a gunboat. I have sent three army gun boats under Graham, carrying 30-pounder Parrotts, light draft and very swift, with orders to Graham to run her down. I think we will get a good account of her yet. Will send your telegraph to Graham with instructions to sink the obstructions if practicable.
Surgeon thinks she had not power enough to go up the Roanoke against the current.
So far as I can judge, after Flusser was killed no fight was made.
B. F. BUTLER, Major-General.
G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of Navy.
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