[Engagement of Federal fleet with Confederate ironclads and shore batteries at Howlett’s, June 21, 1864.]
Report of Lieutenant [Joseph M.] Gardner, C. S. Navy, commanding C. S. S. Beaufort.
C. S. S. Beaufort,
James River Squadron, June 21, 1864
Sir: I am happy to report that this vessel has not been injured in the slightest degree to-day. I expended nine rounds, giving between 4 ½ degrees and 5 degrees elevation, and always aiming at the flash of the enemy’s guns, which could be distinctly seen from the masthead.
I am well satisfied with the conduct of the officers and men under my command, and am confident that they will retain their presence of mind when brought to close action with the gunboats of the enemy.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J[oseph]. M. Gardner,
Lieutenant, Commanding.
Flag-Officer Jno. [Jonathan] K. Mitchell,
Commanding James River Squadron.1
This map shows the June 21, 1864 Action at Howlett’s Bluff, covered in this report by Lt. Gardner.
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