U. S. SHIP CUMBERLAND,
Hampton Roads, May 6, 1861.
SIR: In obedience to your order I have the honor to report the following as a result of a reconnoissance of both banks of York River for 20 miles. From its mouth to Gloucester Point no preparations had been made to obstruct the river. At Gloucester Point there is in the course of erection a breastwork, or water battery, which, when completed, will effectually command the approach of the river. These preparations thus far consist only in a heavy rampart and the collection of a large amount of turf. In its present condition it is useless for defense, as it has not attained a height sufficient to protect its occupants, and there are no means at present to mount its guns. Beyond this point, after a careful survey, I could perceive no unusual appearances. The buoys are all in their places, and with no previous acquaintance with the river I found no difficulty in keeping in 3½ to 4 fathoms water. If I may be permitted the liberty I would respectfully call the attention of the flag-officer to the importance of a command of York River, which, from its depth and ease of access, leading into the heart of Virginia, would be invaluable in the case of offensive measures being decided upon by the United States. For the present it is my humble opinion that a small steamer could prevent the further progress of the work at Gloucester Point, as I firmly believe there are no heavy guns in the neighborhood, and it could effectually retard for some time the transportation of such from Richmond. Two vessels, the brig F. Russell, of Maine, and the schooner Josephine, of Baltimore, were boarded and warned off.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOS. O. SELFRIDGE,
Lieutenant, U. S. Navy.
Flag-Officer G. J. PENDERGRAST,
Commanding Home Squadron.
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 