Edward S. Salomon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward S. Salomon
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| 9th Governor of Washington Territory | |
| In office March 4, 1870 – April 26, 1872 |
|
| Preceded by | Alvan Flanders |
| Succeeded by | Elisha P. Ferry |
| Cook County Clerk | |
| In office 1865 – November 1869 |
|
| Chicago Alderman | |
| In office 1861–1863 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Edward Selig Salomon
December 25, 1836 Duchy of Schleswig |
| Died | July 18, 1913 (aged 76) San Francisco, California |
| Resting place | Salem Memorial Cemetery, Colma, California |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Branch/service | Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861, 1862–1866 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant Colonel Bvt. Brigadier General |
| Unit | 24th Illinois Infantry Regiment 82nd Illinois Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Edward Selig Salomon (born December 25, 1836 – died July 18, 1913) was an important figure in American history. He was a German Jew who moved to the United States. He became a brave officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
Salomon rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. Later, he was recognized as a brevet brigadier general. After the war, he served as governor of the Washington Territory. He also became a legislator in California.
Contents
Early Life and Public Service
Edward Salomon was born in the Duchy of Schleswig. This area is now part of Germany. He moved to Illinois in the United States in 1856.
Just five years later, at age 24, he made history. He was elected an alderman in Chicago. He was the youngest alderman in Chicago's history at that time. He served in this role from 1861 to 1863. Edward Salomon had a cousin, also named Edward Salomon. His cousin also served as a general in the Civil War. Later, his cousin became the Governor of Wisconsin.
Serving in the Civil War
Edward Salomon played a brave part in the American Civil War. In July 1861, he joined the 24th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He started as a first lieutenant.
Later, he joined a new group called the 82nd Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment. This regiment was special. It was made up mostly of German, Jewish, Swedish, and other European volunteers. Salomon was promoted to lieutenant colonel in September 1862.
Hero at Gettysburg
Salomon became a hero during the Battle of Gettysburg. This was one of the most important battles of the war. During the fight, two of his horses were shot from under him. He took command of his regiment when his leader was wounded.
Major General Carl Schurz was his commander. Schurz said Salomon was very brave. He stood calmly even when cannons were firing. He showed great courage under fire.
Leading the Regiment
In early 1864, Salomon took permanent command of his regiment. He led them through the Atlanta Campaign. This was a major series of battles. He also led them during the capture of Atlanta.
Salomon was sent to deliver messages to Nashville. Because of this, he missed the famous march to the sea. He rejoined his regiment in December 1864. He stayed with them until the war ended. For his bravery and excellent service, he was promoted to brigadier general on March 13, 1865.
Life After the War
After the Civil War, Salomon returned to Chicago. He continued his public service. In 1865, he was elected Cook County Clerk. He served in this role as a Republican until 1869.
Governor of Washington Territory
On March 4, 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant appointed Salomon as governor of the Washington Territory. He served in this important position until 1872.
When he resigned, a local newspaper praised him. They said he was honest and had strong principles. General Philip Sheridan and others honored him. They gave him a special gift to thank him for his service.
Later Years in California
Salomon later moved to San Francisco, California. There, he worked as a lawyer. In 1898, he became an assistant district attorney for the city.
He was also elected to the California state assembly in 1888. Edward Salomon passed away in San Francisco. He is buried in Salem Memorial Cemetery in Colma, California.
