Sunday, July 15, 2012

Fernandina And Brunswick Captured


THE WHOLE COAST OF GEORGIA IN OUR POSSESSION.

BALTIMORE, March 10. – The gunboat Alabama, from Fernandina, Florida, arrived bringing Capt. Davis, bearer of despatches from Com. Dupont, announcing the capture of Fernandina and Brunswick by the fleet under his command.  The fleet let Port Royal March 6th.  The first placed approached was Brunswick, Ga., the enemy flying at the approach of the gunboats.  This gives Government control of the whole coast of Georgia from South Carolina to Florida.

The fleet next went thirty miles south to Cumberland Sound, the entrance to Fernandina harbor.  When in front of Fort Clinch the enemy were discovered flying.  After firing but few shots we immediately took possession of the fort.

A train of cars was observed leaving Fernandina, the track of which runs three miles along the shore.  A gunboat threw shells at the train, causing some passengers to jump off, among them said to be ex Senator Yule, of Florida.

Twelve large guns fell into our hands, including one 120-pound rifled cannon, also considerable ammunition.  The rebel steamer Darlington, loaded with wagons and ammunition was also captured.

Gen. Wright’s forces were landed and garrisoned the fort and earthworks also taking possession of the city.  Most of the male inhabitants had fled.  This has been one of the most useful ports to the rebels.  Object of the expedition accomplished March 4th.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 15, 1862, p. 4

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