Hillsborough Recorder (NC)

May 29, 1861

Page 3

NORFOLK, May 20—Between 1500 and 2000 Confederate troops were concentrated at Sewell’s Point last night, but the Yankee mercenaries did not return, as apprehended, and our men, who were actually eager for the fray, had nothing to do.

Capt. Thomas T. Hunter, commander of the Virginia Navy, under a flag of truce visited the Federal fleet off Old Point Comfort, for the purpose of carrying to that destination all the women and children who desire to join their Northern friends.

The families of the following, among other persons, left in the steamer:

James Hepenstall, L. T. Barnard, J. Lucas, Geo. Richard Boush, John Harbonner, Joseph D. Knapp, Thomas Nelson, Robert Gill, John Butler, W. H. Lewis and James H. Hardwick.

The West Point having accomplished its mission, Capt. Hunter, on his return, reported the Monticello as having fared very badly in her engagement with our battery at Sewell’s Point. The boat is seriously damaged in both hull and machinery and it is thought that it will be some time before she can indulge in another bombardment.

Six men were killed on board, and several badly wounded.

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]