The British brig Aurora was bound for New York along with eighteen other vessels that were transporting supplies to the British Navy, when she foundered near Ocracoke Inlet. The Core Sound Independent Company of Carteret County, stationed near Cape Lookout, sailed over to the Aurora, seized the cargo, captain, and the crew. The Aurora was a victualling vessel carrying supplies for the British Navy - laden with food and rum valued at £1,000.

The cargo of the brig included beef, pork, bread, flour, peas, oatmeal, rice, raisins, rum, butter, and vinegar.

On May 9th, Capt. Ward and his men were awarded "one half of the value of the anchoring of the Aurora."