OCTOBER 12, 1861:
The
Battle of Head of Passes. A small squadron of light Confederate gunboats,
privateers and armed sloops known collectively as the “Mosquito Fleet” disrupts
the Union blockade force at Head of Passes, Louisiana. Heavy Union warships
(including the U.S.S. RICHMOND) run aground, fire on each other, and flee off
station in confusion. One Union Commander attempts to scuttle his ship in desperation.
“Put this matter in any light you may, it is the most ridiculous affair that
ever took place in the American Navy,” said Admiral David Dixon Porter.
No comments:
Post a Comment