January 14, 1861, The Charleston Mercury
PENSACOLA, January 12. – Fort Barancas, and the Pensacola Navy Yard, were taken possession of, at half past one o’ today, by the Alabama and Florida troops. The Federal troops had already deserted the post after spiking the guns, and have occupied Fort Pickens. A ship with provisions is at Fort Pickins.
Capt. SHEPHERD intends running a small steamers with men, under the guns and attack the Fort. The Georgia troops, perhaps, will be necessary. Gov. BROWN, of Georgia, has telegraphed Capt. COLQUITT, who is in attendance at the Convention, to be ready with his company. He may be needed very soon. Maj. CHASE is in command of the Florida and Alabama troops.