On this date 150 years ago, President Lincoln made one of his strongest moves up to this time, ordering the blockade of all ports in the Confederate States. This order immediately caused the Federal Department of the Navy to place its ships outside of all critical ports, and the blockade was soon extended to include North Carolina and Virginia. It was one effort that proved effective, though in varying degrees throughout the war.

The 6th Massachusetts Regiment traveled south towards Washington, pausing in Baltimore, Maryland. A vital railroad nexus, the city was important for both the supply and defense of the Federal capital. As the Massachusetts troops moved through Baltimore, they were attacked by rioters carrying Confederate flags. Nine civilians and four soldiers were killed in the melee. The troops reached the capital and were quartered in the Senate Chamber. It appeared that Washington would lose the railroad link with the North as a result of the Baltimore riot, causing the Federal Navy to carry troops to Washington via Philadelphia and Annapolis.