On this day 3 April

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On the 3rd of April 1813, the British navy engaged American ships in the Battle of Rappahannock River, an inlet to the Chesapeake Bay. The British, under the command of Sir John Borlase Warren, blockaded the Rappahannock River, cutting it off from the Bay that leads into the Atlantic Ocean. Having already captured several American ships, the British attempted to secure more by sending small boats full of marines upstream to attack anchored American ships. Lieutenant James Polkinghorne led the attack force, which having spotted five American ships pursued them throughout the night. Four of the ships were American schooners, and under the command of Captain William S. Stafford, anchored and formed a line with broadsides facing the oncoming British force. The Dolphin (12) positioned itself in the head spot, with the Arab (7) at the rear, and the Lynx (6) and Racer (6) in the center positions. Polkinghorne sent his one 12-pounder ship to attack, hoping to deprive the Americans of the opportunity to prepare a strong defense or to escape. The lone British vessel took a combined broadside from the Americans, rendering her ineffective. Polkinghorne immediately responded by leading his remaining boats toward the Racer and Lynx, the two smallest ships in the American line. The Americans warmly welcomed the British attack with another broadside, sinking a second ship. The British changed course and attacked the Arab. The Arab tried tacking to bring her other guns into play, but ran aground having been boarded by the British. The Racer and Lynx were captured soon thereafter, leaving Stafford and his flagship the Dolphin to fend for themselves. After 15 minutes of fighting, the Stafford surrendered.

Rappahannock River:

2997

Chesapeake Bay:

2999

Sir John Borlase Warren:

2998

For more on today’s event:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Fantome_(1810)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Rappahannock_River
http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/16732/pages/995