USS Potomska was a wooden screw steamer rigged as a three masted schooner purchased at New York City from H. Haldrege on 25 September 1861.

She was in the squadron commanded by Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont that took possession of Fernandina, Florida on 4 March 1862.

On 7 November Polontska escorted Army transport USS Darlington up the Sapelo River, Georgia, shelling the shore to cover a landing at Spaulding's.

On 23 February 1863 Potomska captured blockade-running British schooner Belle in Sapelo Sound with a cargo of coffee and salt.

On 30 July a landing party from Potomska destroyed two large Confederate salt works near the Back River, Georgia.

On their return the party was taken under fire by Confederates and a sharp battle ensued before they safely reached the ship, later receiving a commendation from Rear Admiral John A. Dahlgren.