9 April 1863

McCann, William Penn, 1830-1906

Letter signed

Title: to Richard T. Renshaw

Writes to say he is sending "to night three (3) Schooners, with ammunition for the Army and the Gunboats." Mentions that "Davenport thinks it is imprudent to send more boats past the batteries without silencing them." Assures Renshaw that "the force from Newberne [sic] is rapidly advancing to meet you" and briefly mentions that he will be ready for an attack on the Hill's Point Batteries. Letter written aboard the U.S.S. Hunchback. McCann, commander of the Hunchback eventually rose to the rank of Commadore.

GLC02254.10

11 April 1863

McCann, William Penn, 1830-1906

Letter signed

Title: to Richard T. Renshaw

Writes to Renshaw about the plan to "attack Hills Point Battery at 5 Oclock tomorrow morning, and cover the 'Escort' as she passes through the obstructions." Notes that the Escort will be carrying ammunition. The attack McCann references is the start of the Battle of Suffolk at Hill's Point (sometimes known as the Battle of Fort Huger), which spanned from 11 April to 4 May 1863. The Union Army captured Fort Huger, creating a safe river route for Union ships and trade.

GLC02254.11

14 April 1863

McCann, William Penn, 1830-1906

Letter signed

Title: to Richard T. Renshaw

Mentions a change of plans in the attack on Hill's Point Battery. Reports location, activities and condition of several Union ships, including the Collier, Phoenix, Hunchback, Southfield, Valley City, Whitehead and Granite. Complains that "there is not a boat here in which we can mount a Howitzer to clear the channel of the rebel picket boats."

GLC02254.12