"As for Major Anderson's move to Fort Sumter, there has not been any evidence given for his actions that would agree with his original orders. In other words why did he move to Fort Sumter without being threatened?"
David,
As I understand it, Major Anderson was in charge of all Federal troops in Charleston and all installations. As we both know, Ft. Moltrie would be a very hard place to defend being attached to the mainland. Ft. Sumpter on the other hand would be at the mercy of artillery from the shore in Charleston, but it would be possible to defend somewhat from invasion from the water. I don't have the military experience that you have but even as a lowly E-4 I know that that is the place to defend if my options are limited and I should think you would choose that site also.
In my mind, it all goes back to the same thought, if Beauregard had not allowed the first shot, there would not have been reason to do more that resupply the base with what I have always thought was a civilan vessel. I agree with you that there were several U S Navy vessels nearby but they did not cross the breakwater. Is that correct?
Frank
By the way, do you think that Edmond Ruffian fired the first shot as tradition has it?