Forrest sent a note to new commander Maj. William F Bradford demanding unconditional surrender. Assuring that the captured would be treated as prisoners of war.
Bradford's final reply was, "I will not surrender."
The Union flag was still flying over the fort, which indicated that the force had not formally surrendered.
Lt. Daniel Van Horn of the 6th U. S. Heavy Artillery (Colored) stated in his official report "There never was a surrender of the fort, both officers and men declaring they never would surrender or ask for quarter."