After learning that two ships, the steamer Scottish Chief and the sloop Kate Dade, were loaded with cotton and planning to run the blockade from the Hillsboro River, Acting Rear Admiral Theodorus Bailey sent Lieutenant Commander Semmes to Tampa Bay to destroy them. Semmes with the Tahoma, assisted by the Adela, was to create a diversion by shelling the fort and town then after dark land a group of sailors at Ballast Point (about 5 miles below the city) who were to then proceed overland to the river and destroy the blockade runners. On April 16th the shelling began during the day. After dark a force was assembled that included Acting Ensigns Strandberg and Balch and Acting First Assistant Engineer George M. Bennet and 40 men from the Adela, Acting Ensigns J. P. Randall and J.G. Koehler with 60 men from the Tahoma, and two guides Acting Master’s Mate Crane and Mr. J.A. Thompson. All the men carried 3 days rations. The expedition would be commanded by Acting Master T. R. Harris, executive officer of the Tahoma. After the moon set at 11:00 PM the men, in six boats, landed and proceeded on a 14-mile march to the Hillsboro River. They laid there until the sun came up on the 17th when they discovered that the blockade runners were two miles further upriver. They moved opposite the vessels, crossed the river and fired both vessels. In the process two of the crew escaped to warn the garrison in town and seven were taken prisoner. The Union landing party hurried back to the beach and awaited pick up. Before they could finish boarding their launches they were attacked by a detachment of Confederate cavalry and infantry under the command of Captain Westcott. A 15-20 minute fire fight ensued during which three sailors were killed including James Worrall, John Roddy, and Joseph O’Donnell. Ten more were wounded and five were taken prisoner.

Ballast Point

The next several pictures are of Hillsborough Bay from the sign

The site on the river is located near this shipyard (private property).