| Citation |
NHG-P.776.002
9 Jan 1776:21 (1001)
Charlestown, (South-Carolina) Nov. 17. In consequence of a
resolution to obstruct the approach of ships of war to town
through Hog Island Creek, the provincial armed Schooner
Defence of 12 guns, & 70 men, commanded by Capt. Simon
Tufts, went there on Saturday with four schooner hulks,
which were to be sunk in such a manner as to effect the
above purpose. According on that evening, Capt. Tufts sank
3 of them notwithstanding several shot were fired on him
from the Tames Sloop of War, lying in Rebellion Road, which
Capt. Tufts answered with two shots. The 4th hulk not
having come up early enough in the tide, he was obliged to
remain in the creek till morning. The Tames and Cherokee
Men of War had warped much nearer the Schooner in the night
time, & about 4 o'clock began a heavy cannonade, which was
continued with little intermission till near 7; however, the
hulk was carried to its station, scuttled, and there left
sinking. Capt. Tufts having thus affected his purpose,
retreated. Two boats from the Men of War went to the last
hulk, set it on fire, and towed it from the place where it
had been left; upon which two guns were ineffectually fired
at them from the schooner. Upwards of 100 shot were fired
at the Defence by the Men of War, only 3 of which struck
here, one under her counter, one in her side, and the 3d in
her shrouds, but not a man on board was in the least hurt.
The Charlestown Militia, on the drums beating to arms,
turned out, and continued under arms several hours. . . [5
more lines]
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