Charles W. Sandford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles W. Sandford
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| Born | May 5, 1796 |
| Died | July 25, 1878 (aged 82) |
| Nationality | American |
| Other names | Charles W. Sanford |
| Occupation | Militia officer, lawyer and businessman |
| Known for | New York militia officer who led the First Division in several major riots and civil disturbances between the 1830s to the 1860s. |
| Term | Commanding officer of the New York First Division |
| Predecessor | Jacob Morton |
| Successor | Alexander Shaler |
| Children | 2 sons, 4 daughters |
| Parent(s) | William B. Sandford |
Major General Charles W. Sandford (born May 5, 1796 – died July 25, 1878) was an American soldier, lawyer, and businessman. He was a very important officer in the New York State Militia for more than 30 years. He led a group called the First Division during many big public troubles in New York City. This included the famous New York Draft Riots in 1863.
About Charles W. Sandford
Charles W. Sandford was born in Newark, New Jersey. His father, William B. Sandford, was a farmer and fought in the American Revolutionary War. Charles was born on May 5, 1796.
He decided to become a lawyer and studied law. At the same time, he joined the New York State Artillery as a private soldier. He stayed with his unit as it changed names. It became known as the "Washington Grays". Charles moved up the ranks, from leading a small group to becoming a lieutenant colonel and then a full colonel. In 1834, he was chosen to be a brigadier general. This meant he was in charge of a larger group of artillery soldiers.
On May 10, 1839, Sandford became a major general. This was a very high rank. He was in charge of the First Division for almost 30 years. Even though he had a good record, his group sometimes had a relaxed atmosphere. Soldiers and officers were not always on time. This could cause delays, like military parades starting hours late.
Leading the Militia
General Sandford enjoyed military ceremonies and public events. He often organized parades involving the militia. For example, in July 1850, he held a parade for General José Antonio Páez. Páez was a former president of Venezuela who was visiting.
The next year, in October 1851, Sandford's militia welcomed Lajos Kossuth to the city. Kossuth was a famous Hungarian leader. They also held a big reception for him in December. Then, they had another parade when he left. Sandford and his men also escorted American presidents when they visited New York City. They marched in the funerals of important leaders like Henry Clay and Daniel Webster.
Sandford had a strong military record because he led the militia during several times of public unrest. These included the Flour Riot of 1837 and the Astor Place Riot in 1849. He also helped during the Dead Rabbits Riot and the New York City Police Riot in 1857. His most famous role was during the New York Draft Riot in 1863.
General Winfield Scott, a famous military leader, once said that Sandford was one of the best volunteer generals he knew. During the 1857 riots, Sandford led his forces to help the sheriff. He even helped take Mayor Fernando Wood into custody. Later that year, the police asked for his help during the Dead Rabbits Riot. Sandford sent soldiers to help the police. They pushed the gang members back, which helped end the fighting.
During the Civil War
During the American Civil War, many soldiers from Sandford's command left to fight. This made his group much smaller. Still, Sandford served with the Union Army from April to July 1861. In May 1861, he was ordered to help capture Alexandria, Virginia. This was because most of the Union soldiers there were from New York. He also fought in the Battle of Hoke's Run.
After returning to New York, Sandford was present during the New York Draft Riots in 1863. These riots were a very difficult time for the city. Sandford managed to gather a small group of soldiers and home guards. He was one of the main officers who directed the police and military during the riots. When he heard about a big fight between police and rioters, he sent Colonel H.J. O'Brien and 150 men to help. They also brought two cannons to the battle.
Later Life and Career
After the war, in 1867, Governor Reuben Fenton replaced Sandford with Alexander Shaler. Sandford then focused on other interests. He had been involved in theater since 1847. He ran the Lafayette Theatre. He then opened a second theater, but both buildings burned down. This ended his career in theater.
He also built many buildings on Canal Street, but he lost these to fire too. Sandford often had ups and downs in his business life. He would gain and lose money several times. However, he always made sure his family was comfortable in his later years. He and his wife often hosted parties at their home. Important people from the city would attend these events. For over 50 years, he was a leading member of the old St. Paul's Episcopal Church on Broadway.
Sandford was also a skilled lawyer. He was a partner with John Bristed, whose father was a famous author. Sandford also worked as a lawyer for the New York and Harlem Railroad company for 20 years. Later, he represented the company in a case against an inventor. When he died, he was the vice president of the New York City Bar Association.
In July 1878, Sandford went on his yearly summer vacation to Avon Springs. This was in Livingston County, New York. He died suddenly the day after he arrived, on July 25, 1878. He was 82 years old. His family was told by telegram, but they did not know how he died. One of his daughters brought his body back to New York City, and he was buried soon after.
