Charles H. Olmstead

Charles Hart Olmstead (1837–1926) was an American Confederate Army officer and member of the 1st Georgia Infantry Regiment.

Early life
Born in Savannah, Georgia on April 2, 1837, Olmstead became a graduate of Georgia Military Institute.

Civil War
Olmstead was appointed major of the 1st Georgia Infantry Regiment on May 27, 1861. He was placed in command of Fort Pulaski, after Georgia milita captured the fort on January 6, 1861. In November 1861, Olmstead had an estimated 385 men and 48 cannons to protect it. After a siege and bombardment, Olmstead surrendered the fortress on April 11, 1862 and was a prisoner for several months.

Post war
After the war, at the age of 29, he married Florence Williams. Together they raised three daughters: Susan, Sarah, and Florence. He had a successful career in life insurance, shipping, and banking. Afterwards in New York City, he worked in the statistical department of Wanamaker's. In 1912 he wrote his Memoirs. He was 89 years old when he died in Savannah on August 17, 1926. Before his death he had written "I gratefully acknowledge that 'goodness and mercy' have followed me 'all the days of my life'".