Butch -

as I understand it the DeKalb site is somewhere in the Yazoo River south of Yazoo City proper (see communication from tinclad USS Petrel to USS Prairie Bird of April 22, 1864 shown below and attached URL).

Part of the ship was apparently exposed during low water several years ago as I heard it from locals in the area.

Acting Ensign J.W. CHAMBERS,
Commanding Prairie Bird.

U.S.S. PETREL, April 22, 1864 - 12:30 o’clock.

SIR: You will hold yourself and boat in readiness to come to my support to-night after dusk, before the moon rises. You will not come above the wreck of the Baron De Kalb. If I should not come before the moon sets in the morning you will still hold yourself in readiness to come to my support at a moment’s notice. I will not make any signals if I can help it, as that will give the rebels the opportunity to concentrate on me. Do all you can for me, as I see that the army has deserted us.

I am, very respectfully,

THOS. McELROY,

Acting Master, Commanding.

Acting Ensign JOHN W. CHAMBERS,

Commanding Prairie Bird.

y.v.o.s.,

Kenneth Byrd