U. S. S. PAWNEE,
Off Aquia Creek, Va, June 27, 1861.
SIR: In consequence of the lamented death of Commander J. H. Ward, you are hereby ordered to assume the command of the steamer Freeborn until the pleasure of the Navy Department is made known.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. C. ROWAN,
Commander, and Senior Officer in the Potomac.
Lieutenant Commanding R. B. LOWRY,
Commanding Steamer Freeborn, off Aquia Creek, Va.
U. S. S. PAWNEE,
Off Aquia Creek, Va, June 27, 1861.
SIR: You will continue the close blockade of Aquia Creek in the steamer Freeborn, under your command, until my return or until ordered elsewhere by higher authority.
You will direct the commander of the steam tug Reliance to keep underway during the night between Cockpit Point and Budd’s Ferry to look out for boats or vessels that may be moving at night. From sunrise to sunset the Reliance will remain off Mathias Point, keeping out of musket range, for the purpose of protecting vessels in passing. When the Resolute returns you will dispatch her to St. Mary’s and Leonardtown to examine those harbors for vessels carrying aid to the enemy and to obtain all the information in relation to the movements of those engaged therein and to visit Lower Cedar Point and Hooe’s Ferry.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. C. ROWAN,
Commander, and Senior Officer in the Potomac.
Lieutenant Commanding R. B. LOWRY,
Commanding Steamer Freeborn.
Sources
Official Records of the Union and Confederate Navies in the War of the Rebellion. Series I, Vol. 4. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1896.
Spirit of '61 