The file cabinet still isn't 100% finished but close enough for government work (as the saying goes in Washington, D.C.). Now I can get back to my favorite pass time--reading history for pleasure. But be aware, what I post may not be in chronological order. For instance, today will be a bit on the Civil War but later you may hear about the early settlers in Mohawk country in the 1640's.
Everyone knows about Ft. Sumter, at least I hope everyone knows, but there was so much more involved. We know that it is an island off the coast of S. Carolina. Visitors to Charleston can get a boat and go out for a couple of hours.
Back in 1861 a Major Anderson was in charge of the fort which was considered one of the strongest in the south to be held by the Federals. the fact that is was island caused a significant problem. How could it be kept supplied with food, ammunition and additional troops? Major Anderson only had 80 men in the garrison.
Supplies and reinforcements were heading for them on the Star of the Sea, a merchant ship, not a warship and without a Navy escort. It was fired upon, by secessionists on Ft. Moultrie . When the merchant ship signaled for instructions it was said that Anderson didn't know what to do because he had anticipated a war ship not a merchant ship. Nothing went according to his expectations and he didn't reply quickly enough to the Star of the Sea's signal so, rather than waiting to be hit broadside, her captain turned and went out to open sea.
The dye was cast. There were many issues involved with regard to session, including state's rights, but the actual war started from an incident that lasted a few minutes. The date: April 12th. The skirmish that lasted such a short time precipitated the war that lasted until April 1865.
More "little know" facts to follow.
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