[Note 1] Hendrick Hudson was captured by USS Pursuit while attempting to run the blockade at St. Andrews Bay, Florida on 6 April 1862.

On station 1 February, Hendrick Hudson began her long months of arduous blockade duty, working to shut off commerce through the multitude of small inlets and passes of the Florida coast.

Resuming her blockading duties, Hendrick Hudson encountered a small schooner off Key West, Florida on 21 March 1864 and stood toward her.

The steamer helped blockade the river and some of her crew went ashore with the Army in an attempt to capture Confederate positions in what came to be known as the Battle of Natural Bridge.

Two of the ship's sailors were awarded the Medal of Honor for their part in this battle: Seaman John Mack and Coxswain George Schutt.