May 20, 1863, The New York Herald
The Pearl river, which runs through nearly one half of the State of Mississippi, rises in Winston county, in the northeast central part of the State, and flows in a southwesterly direction to the city of Jackson. Here it makes a slight deviation from its course, and flows south-southeast, until it strikes the boundary line which divides the States of Mississippi and Louisiana. From this point it pursues a direct southerly course until it reaches Lake Borgne, through which it flows into the Mississippi sound and the Gulf of Mexico. By this means a communication is opened with the sea near one of the United States naval and military depots – Ship island. The whole length of the river exceeds two hundred and fifty miles. The navigation of the stream is somewhat impeded by sand bars and driftwood; but flat boats and other light draught vessels often ascend the river as high as Jackson.