Final report of Acting Master McCormick, U. S. Navy, commanding U.S.S. Sidewinder, of the passage of the abandoned Confederate battery at Hill’s Point by that vessel.

U.S.S. Sidewinder

Nansemond River, April 19, 1873

   Sir: I have the honor to report the particulars of the passage of this vessel by the old rebel battery placed at the falls of this creek.

   At 6:45-p.m. we got underway to Suffolk, having gladly made preparation to set aside our current surveying duties in order to bring the dispatches from Secretary Robeson, relayed to us this day by U.S. S. Columbia, Fortress Monroe. Crossing the obstruction at Hill’s Point by twilight, we noticed faint plumes of smoke emanating from old Fort Huger, and colors on the flagstaff. Spyglass revealed this to be a Confederate standard, not seen raised over the works since the War. By rights of the evil that banner has seen upon this countryside, we made ready to land and oust the rogues whom’d raised it; undoubtedly children, I first believed, camped in the battery with no idea the struggles of our wizened generation.

   It was dark as Sidewinder approached the left bank; as we prepared a launch, she hit the bar, shaking the gig from the divots as she went aground. Here we spied figures on the ramparts, grinning skeletal masques with rifles trained on our position. As I write, we hear unmistakable sound of carriages swinging guns into positon.

   We are trapped.

   I write this letter in earnest, hastily, as the ragged devils bear down upon us. I send it with a young mate, faithful and fleet of foot.

   The battery at Hill’s Point is manned by hostile force, ‘manned’ is used in broadest connotation not accounting for what lies within these parapets.  I fear the wicked spirit of rebellion has never left us.

   I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,

   R. M. McCormick

Acting Master, Commanding.

Rear-Admiral F. T. Endicott

   Commanding North Atlantic Squadron.