Suffolk Christian Sun

December 6, 1861

Page 2

NAVAL ENGAGEMENT

On Monday morning last, everybody in this section was aroused by the booming of cannon after cannon in the direction of Smithfield.  The firing continued without any cessation for about four hours.  During the day we learned that on Saturday night three or four gun boats from Old Point had gone up to the mouth of Pagan Creek, and remained there, supposing to prevent a little steamer at Smithfield from going out.  The Patrick Henry was sent down and attacked them.  The fight continued for sometime, when the gunboats retreated to Newport News, being pursued by the Confederate steamer.  Rumor says that one of the gunboats was seriously injured, whether any harm was done to the Patrick Henry is unknown.

 

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]