Luis F. Emilio facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Luis Fenellosa Emilio
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Captain Luis F. Emilio
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| Born | December 22, 1844 Salem, Massachusetts |
| Died | 16 September 1918 (aged 73) New York, New York |
| Allegiance | United States Union Army (1861-1865) |
| Rank |  Captain (U.S.) |
| Commands held | Company E, 54th Massachusetts |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War 2nd Battle of Fort Wagner |
| Other work | Author of "Brave Black Regiment" |
Luis Fenellosa Emilio (December 22, 1844 – September 16, 1918) was a brave captain in the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. This was a special Union Army regiment during the American Civil War. It was one of the first regiments made up of African American soldiers. Emilio showed great courage and leadership throughout the war.
Contents
A Young Soldier's Start
Luis Emilio was born on December 22, 1844, in Salem, Massachusetts. His father was an immigrant from Spain who taught music. When the American Civil War began, Luis was only 16 years old. Even though he was too young, he said he was 18 and joined the Union Army in 1861.
He first served in the 23rd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. Luis was known for being very brave and steady. By September 1862, he had earned a promotion to the rank of Sergeant.
Joining the Famous 54th Massachusetts
Luis Emilio was chosen to be one of the first officers for the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. This regiment was very important because it was made up of African American soldiers. They were led by white officers. Massachusetts War Governor John Albion Andrew picked Emilio for this role.
Emilio became a 2nd Lieutenant on March 30, 1863. Just two weeks later, he was promoted again to 1st Lieutenant. By May 27, he became a Captain, leading Company E.
Heroism at Fort Wagner
One of the most famous battles for the 54th Massachusetts was the attack on Fort Wagner. This happened on July 18, 1863. It was a very fierce and dangerous fight. During this battle, many of the officers in the 54th Massachusetts were killed or wounded.
Captain Emilio was one of the few high-ranking officers who survived without injury. Because of this, he became the acting commander of the regiment during and after the battle. He helped lead the soldiers even when the fight was very difficult.
Brigadier General T. Seymour wrote a report about the attack on Fort Wagner. He noted that the soldiers fought bravely, even though they faced many challenges. He mentioned that the regiment's flags reached the top of the fort. He also pointed out that Captain Luis F. Emilio took command after other captains were killed or hurt. Emilio then kept the regiment together until they were relieved by other troops.
Continuing His Service
Captain Emilio continued to fight with the 54th Massachusetts for more than three years. He took part in many dangerous battles, including the Battle of Olustee in Florida. He left the Union Army on March 29, 1865. He was still not yet 21 years old when his service ended.
Life After the War
After the Civil War, Luis Emilio started a career in real estate. He worked in San Francisco first, and later in New York. In the mid-1880s, he helped some old friends write about the history of the 23rd Massachusetts regiment.
This experience inspired him to write his own book about the 54th Massachusetts. He published the first version of his book, called Brave Black Regiment, in 1891. A revised edition came out in 1894.
Luis Emilio passed away in New York on September 16, 1918, after a long illness. He was buried in the Harmony Grove Cemetery in Salem, Massachusetts.
See also
In Spanish: Luis F. Emilio para niños
