Description:

(UNION NAVY) USS RESTLESS COMMANDER ORDERS A RAID ON SALT WORKS
A very interesting content war-date manuscript L.S., 1p. legal folio., St. Andrew's Bay, FL, June 8, 1864, from William R. Browne, commanding the barque USS RESTLESS, to ensign W. B. Rankin under his command. Browne orders Rankin to participate in a raid on salt works in the area, in full: ‘You will proceed in the Barge with 5 Men from this Vessel, as soon as arrangement can be made to get her off, up ‘West Bay' for the purpose of covering the men of Capt Woods company in case they are attacked by the Rebels. Capt Woods intends to land 40 men & march in the rear of the Salt Works in West Bay & wishes the Barge to keep just without Rifle shot from shore & near enough to send shells or Shrapnel in case of need. You will therefore act in conjunction with Capt Woods & work together for the accomplishment of our purpose. You will have Rations for 3 days for your men & the men will also be armed with Rifles, this together with the 30 Rounds of Shrapnel from the Howitzer will make the force formidable enough to accomplish what is intended; do not go nearer the shore than Musket shot.' Browne signs at the conclusion in black ink. Shows original mailing folds and additional folds throughout, slightly ragged at the left edge, otherwise in very good to fine condition overall.

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March 27, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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