by Daniel F. Oppliger (Author)
The Garcia (pronounced Gar-sha) family's roots in New Orleans date back to the early years following the Spanish acquisition of Louisiana. Manuel Garcia y Muniz, originally from Puerto Real, Andalucía, is my fourth great-grandfather and marks the beginning of our family's history intertwined with the formative years of Louisiana including a land dispute that went to the Supreme Court. His sons-Felix, Manuel, and Carlos-played significant roles in the early political and military development of the state. Felix served as President of the Louisiana Senate from 1840 to 1852, though historical records of his tenure are sparse. Despite his optimism, multiple businesses, plantations and accumulated wealth, Felix ultimately died penniless in Paris. Charles, Felix's son by his mistress, served under General Beauregard in the Crescent Regiment. The narrative follows their journey from the regiment's formation through the Battle of Shiloh, culminating in being "Ordered Shot" by General Bragg. After the war, Charles moved to St. Louis, where he turned a modest sum of 40 cents into a considerable fortune.
The Garcia (pronounced Gar-sha) family's roots in New Orleans date back to the early years following the Spanish acquisition of Louisiana. Manuel Garcia y Muniz, originally from Puerto Real, Andalucía, is my fourth great-grandfather and marks the beginning of our family's history intertwined with the formative years of Louisiana including a land dispute that went to the Supreme Court. His sons-Felix, Manuel, and Carlos-played significant roles in the early political and military development of the state. Felix served as President of the Louisiana Senate from 1840 to 1852, though historical records of his tenure are sparse. Despite his optimism, multiple businesses, plantations and accumulated wealth, Felix ultimately died penniless in Paris. Charles, Felix's son by his mistress, served under General Beauregard in the Crescent Regiment. The narrative follows their journey from the regiment's formation through the Battle of Shiloh, culminating in being "Ordered Shot" by General Bragg. After the war, Charles moved to St. Louis, where he turned a modest sum of 40 cents into a considerable fortune.