George Henry Preble, Pamphlet Signed

Description

Commander Preble published this pamphlet, The Chase of the Rebel Steamer of War Oreto…, after his dismissal from the service for failing to capture the Confederate raider commonly known as the CSS Florida.  

On September 4, 1862, Preble was in charge of the blockade of Mobile Bay when Confederate Captain J. N. Maffitt audaciously slipped his vessel through the picket line and escaped safely into the bay.  Maffitt’s fast steamer was built in Liverpool under disguise as the Oreto.  U.S. officials continued to call her Oreto until she put to sea in 1863 as CSS Florida.  

Preble’s appeal was successful and he was reinstated.  Unfortunately, he failed in a second opportunity to catch the CSS Florida in 1864 in the Atlantic Ocean. He continued to serve honorably until his retirement in 1878.  

Rear wrapper missing & front wrapper taped on with archival tape; usual toning with minor chipping of wrapper.  

Preble, George Henry (Commodore, U.S.N., 1816-1885). The Chase of the Rebel Steamer of War Oreto, Commander J. N. Maffitt, C.S.N. into the Bay of Mobile, by the United States Steam Sloop Oneida, Commander Geo. Henry Preble, U.S.N. September 4, 1862. Cambridge: Printed for Private Circulation, 1862. 1st ed., 40p., wrappers.