Abstract:
Drawing on primary accounts, this article addresses the cruise of the Confederate blockade runner CSS NASHVILLE between October 1861 and February 1862. Beginning in Bermuda, NASHVILLE sailed for Beaufort, NC and encountered Union ships outside the harbor. Using a false flag, NASHVILLE passed by the enemy vessel. The Union sailors soon discovered the ruse and began firing at the blockade runner. NASHVILLE successfully evaded the shots and sought cover at Fort Macon, proceeding to Morehead City. Various other vessels saw the encounter and commented on the skill of the crew. NASHVILLE was eventually sold for private use.