Charles H. Coster

Charles H. Coster was an American businessman and Union Army officer during the American Civil War. He is primarily remembered for his command of a brigade in the XI Corps during the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg, where his men made a desperate stand in the streets of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Following the war, Coster achieved significant success in the insurance industry in New York City.

Early life and education

Charles H. Coster was born around 1837 in New York City. Details of his early family life and formal education are not extensively documented in historical records. Prior to the outbreak of the American Civil War, he established himself in the business community of Manhattan, gaining experience in commercial affairs that would later serve him in his postwar career. His pre-war business activities positioned him among the many young professional men of the Northern United States who answered President Abraham Lincoln's call for volunteers in 1861.

Civil War service

Coster entered military service in September 1861, receiving a commission as a major in the 27th New Jersey Infantry, a nine-months regiment. Following the mustering out of that unit, he was appointed lieutenant colonel of the 134th New York Infantry in October 1862. He fought with the 134th New York at the Battle of Chancellorsville in May 1863 as part of the XI Corps. His most notable military action occurred at the Battle of Gettysburg. On July 1, 1863, during the chaotic retreat of the XI Corps through Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Colonel Coster was placed in command of a brigade. He led his men to a position near the brickyard on Baltimore Street to cover the withdrawal, engaging in fierce street fighting against advancing Confederate troops from the division of Major General Jubal Early. Though ultimately forced to retreat, the stand bought crucial time for the Union army to consolidate its defensive lines on Cemetery Hill. Coster continued to serve through the Atlanta Campaign, commanding his regiment at battles such as Peachtree Creek, and was mustered out of volunteer service in June 1865 with a brevet promotion to brigadier general for faithful service.

Postbellum career

After the war, Coster returned to New York City and resumed his business career with great success. He entered the insurance industry, becoming a prominent figure in that field. He served as the president of the German-American Insurance Company and also held a directorship with the Title Guarantee and Trust Company. His financial acumen and leadership were widely recognized in New York's commercial circles, and he amassed a considerable personal fortune. His postwar life exemplified the path of many former Union officers who leveraged their leadership experience and networks into successful careers in industry and finance during the Gilded Age.

Personal life and death

Charles H. Coster married Frances "Fanny" G. Schuchardt. The couple had at least one child, a daughter. He was a member of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, an organization for Union officers. Coster died suddenly on December 23, 1888, in New York City. His death was attributed to apoplexy, a historical term often equated with a stroke. He was interred in a substantial mausoleum at Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, a resting place for many notable figures from the period.

Legacy and honors

Coster's primary legacy is tied to his actions at the Battle of Gettysburg. The site of his brigade's stand is commemorated by the Coster Avenue monument in Gettysburg. His postwar success story is also noted as an example of a Civil War veteran's transition to prominent civilian leadership. The Coster Avenue marker and his imposing mausoleum at Green-Wood Cemetery serve as the principal physical testaments to his life and service.

Category:1837 births Category:1888 deaths Category:Union Army officers Category:People of New York (state) in the American Civil War Category:Businesspeople from New York City