Union Navy Service
The U.S. Navy purchased the Beauregard from the prize court for $1,810 on 24 February 1862 and began fitting the schooner for service with the blockading squadrons. To replace the 24 pound rifled that the privateer’s crew spiked, the navy armed the Beauregard with 1 30 pound rifle and 2 12 pound howitzers. The ship was allocated to the East Gulf Blockading Squadron then commanded by Flag Officer William McKean. Flag Officer McKean assigned Acting Master David Stearns to command the Beauregard and the ship was commissioned on 28 March 1862.
During the Beauregard’s service with the Eastern Gulf squadron she patrolled the coasts of Florida and was credited with capturing 11 blockade runners. Like other ships assigned to blockade duty the Beauregard was called upon to participate in attacks against coastal locations. On 2 April 1863 she supported an attack against Tampa, Florida and on 28 July 1863 she was in action at New Smyrna, Florida.
Read more about this topic: USS Beauregard (1861)
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