[citation needed] By the 1860s, Fry had 15 years of experience as a captain in the US Navy before joining the Confederacy during the American Civil War.

In June 1862, he led the CSS Maurepas up the White River to oppose Union Navy advances, sinking the ship to close the channel.

On October 24, 1873, the North American steamer left Kingston Harbor commanded by Captain Joseph Fry.

[8] Fry instructed W.A.C Ryan and Varona to throw the heavy ammunition, horses, artillery, and gun carriages overboard to lighten the load of the steamer during the pursuit.

At that point, Fry realized he could not escape and stopped the vessel between Cabo Cruz and Santiago, surrendering to the Tornado's captain.

Presenting his documentation to the boarding officer, Captain Fry objected to the legality of his ship's seizure.

[10] On November 1, 1873, the vessel, along with the leaders of the Cuban insurgency, crew members, and passengers, arrived at the port of Santiago de Cuba.