Daniel Ammen, Confederate Military History, a library of Confederate States Military History: Volume 7.2, The Atlantic Coast
Clement Anselm Evans, Ed.

Commander G. A. Prentiss in the Albatross passed into Wiuylaw Bay, the entrance to Georgetown, S. C., on May 21st, accompanied by the Norwich. A redoubt near the lighthouse was found deserted. Within, on South Island, an extensive work was seen, with apparently several large barbette guns. On a nearer approach, they were found to be what are known as ‘Quakers.’ From this view Cat Island was visible, and on it a well-built fort, with cavalry in the skirts of the woodland, who were scattered by shells. The vessels found these works deserted also and in like manner armed with ‘Quaker’ guns. The work was quadrangular, fitted with platforms for mounting ten guns, with bomb-proofs, magazines, and furnace for hot shot. The woodwork was collected and set on fire, as also a large quantity of timber intended for obstructing the channel.

The following day the vessels passed up the river to Georgetown and steamed slowly along the wharves, the muzzles of the guns within thirty yards of the houses. A brig loaded with turpentine was set on fire to prevent the approach of the vessels, but they continued on, passed the vessel on fire and turned with some difficulty in the narrow channel to retrace their route, ‘tarrying to see if the town authorities were disposed to communicate.’ Commander Prentiss had judiciously ‘sent word to the Union men to make no demonstration whatever, as he was not prepared to hold the place permanently. A few, however, appeared on the wharves, and indicated by gestures or words their joy at seeing us, while the masses of citizens kept aloof. While passing up, a woman appeared in the belfry of a church or city hall, and spread a rebel flag over the bell. I was greatly tempted to send on shore and seize it, but refrained, from the consideration that a contest in the streets ’