Re: Coastal Forts
Pam, you may have that backwards. The flotilla left New York for Pickens semi-publicly. Lincoln knew there were those in the city who would be sure the South heard about the sailing, and its destination. Charleston, billed as a resupply mission, was his real target. He felt the element of surprise would either allow him to succeed, or the South Carolinians would be goaded into a rash response. I believe this is exactly what happened. Lincoln either took advantage of Anderson's move into Sumter, or Anderson took that step under secret orders, which he was bound not to reveal. Chief Upton has mentioned his declining health. The stress of such a secret could have damaged his physical and mental health. Stan