Hillsborough Recorder (NC)

May 15, 1861

Page 2

 

NAVAL PREPARATIONS IN THE SOUTHERN CONFEDERACY

The New Orleans papers of Sunday state that Commodore Rosseau had received dispatches from the government at Montgomery, containing orders for fitting out the Confederate States steamship-of-war Sumter, (late Habana) and to get her ready for sea immediately.  Lieut. Fry has been ordered to superintend her fitting out.

            Also, the Confederate States brig Pickens, (late revenue cutter McClelland) and the Washington, whose repairs are nearly completed.  The Star of the West will no doubt be added to our little navy, which is already making a fair show.

            Great activity prevails at the foundries of Messrs. Leeds and the Phoenix, where guns and shells are being cast for our naval vessels.

            Marines for naval service are already being recruited here by Capt. Van Benthuysen, and in a few days our first ship-of-war will be ready for sea, and action, if necessary.

 

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]