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Charles Roome
Charles Roome.jpg
16th President of the Saint Nicholas Society of the City of New York
In office
1867–1867
Preceded by Augustus Schell
Succeeded by James William Beekman
Personal details
Born (1812-08-04)August 4, 1812
New York City, New York, U.S.
Died June 28, 1890(1890-06-28) (aged 77)
New York City, New York, U.S.
Spouses
Anna Catherine Wheeler
(m. 1836; her death 1855)

Mary Marvin Wells
(m. 1857; his death 1890)
Children 5
Parents Jenima Lewis Roome
Nicholas Roome

Charles Roome (August 4, 1812 – June 28, 1890) was an important American figure. He was a soldier, an engineer, and a successful businessman. He led gas companies and served as a general during the American Civil War.

Charles Roome's Early Life

Charles Roome was born in New York City on August 4, 1812. He was one of twenty children born to Jemima Lewis Roome and Nicholas Roome. His father, Nicholas, was a successful merchant. He also managed a large prison in New York City.

Charles's family had deep roots in America. His great-great-grandfather, William Jansen Roome, was an early settler in New Amsterdam. This was the original name for New York City. His mother's side of the family also had a history of service. His grandfather, Thomas Lewis, fought in the American Revolutionary War.

Charles Roome's Career and Achievements

After finishing his education, Charles Roome started working in business. In 1838, he joined the engineering team at the Manhattan Gas Light Company. He quickly moved up, becoming the chief engineer in 1842. By 1854, he was named president of the company.

Military Service During the Civil War

When the American Civil War began, Charles Roome was already a Captain in the New York State Militia. He helped create the 37th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment for the Union Army. In 1861, he was made a Colonel and led this regiment throughout the entire war.

For his brave and loyal service, President Andrew Johnson promoted him. On March 13, 1865, Charles Roome became a Brevet Brigadier General. This was a special honor for his wartime efforts.

Leadership in Business After the War

After the war, General Roome returned to his business career. He continued to be the president of the Manhattan Gas Light Company until 1884. Then, he became the president of a new, larger company called the Consolidated Gas Company of New York. He also served as a director for this company. He retired from this role in 1886.

In addition to his business work, Charles Roome was involved in other important groups. In 1867, he became the 16th President of the Saint Nicholas Society of the City of New York. This society celebrates the history and traditions of New York. He also held a high leadership position in the Grand Lodge of New York from 1886 to 1889.

Charles Roome's Personal Life

Charles Roome was married twice. In 1836, he married his first wife, Anna Catherine Wheeler. They had three children together:

  • Emilie Frances Roome (1838–1866)
  • Anna Catherine Roome
  • Frederick Roome, who sadly died when he was a baby.

After Anna Catherine passed away in 1855, Charles married Mary Marvin Wells on June 2, 1857. Charles and Mary had two more children:

  • Claudius Monell Roome (1860–1920), who became a Reverend.
  • William Harris Roome (born 1861), who became a lawyer.

Charles Roome passed away on June 28, 1890, in New York City. He was buried at Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn.

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