Rudolph Septimus Siegling facts for kids

Rudolph Septimus Siegling (born December 3, 1839 – died March 13, 1894) was an important person in Charleston, South Carolina. He fought in the American Civil War, helped make laws, and was a well-known lawyer.

Early Life and Family

Rudolph Siegling was born in Port Royal, South Carolina. His family was German American. He was the youngest son of Johann Zacharias Siegling, who came from Prussia, and his mother, Mary Schnierle. Rudolph's father was a talented man who made musical instruments and published music. He even started a music business called the Siegling Music House in Charleston in 1819. Rudolph Siegling married Effie Oswald Campbell in 1884. His older sister, Marie Siegling, was a composer who wrote music.

Serving in the Civil War

When the American Civil War began, Rudolph Siegling joined a group of German volunteers who fought for the Confederacy. He started as a second lieutenant. His group was part of a larger military unit called the Hampton Legion. They were known as Company H, German Volunteers.

The Hampton Legion needed more artillery (large guns), so some of its companies were changed into artillery units. Rudolph's group was chosen and became known as the German Artillery of the Hampton Legion.

Rudolph Siegling was badly hurt during a big battle called the Second Battle of Bull Run. He was injured by an exploding grenade. At first, people thought he had died, and his family was told the sad news. A funeral service was even held in Charleston. But when his father went to get his body, he found out that Rudolph was still alive!

Life After the War

After the war ended, Rudolph Siegling became a Brigadier General in the South Carolina Militia, leading the 4th Brigade. He had a very successful career as a lawyer. He also served in the South Carolina government, helping to make laws for the state.

Rudolph Siegling was involved in many different things. He was:

• A trustee for a college, helping to guide its decisions.
• The president of a bank.
• A builder.
• The president of a railroad company.
• The president of Charleston's newspaper, The News & Courier.

Rudolph Siegling passed away in Charleston and is buried at Magnolia Cemetery there. Papers and documents about his family are kept at the University of South Carolina.