Charles Edmund Nash

Born: May 23, 1844 in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana

Died: June 21, 1913 in New Orleans, Louisiana

United States Representative, 1875–1877

Republican from Louisiana

• Nash was the first African American from Louisiana to serve in Congress. 
• Nash was born to free parents in St. Landry Parish, LA, and attended common (public) schools before becoming a bricklayer in New Orleans.
• During the Civil War, Nash enlisted as a private in the 82nd U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment in 1863 and was later promoted to sergeant major. In the battle at Fort Blakely, in Alabama, on April 9, 1865, Nash was severely wounded and lost part of his right leg.
• Nash’s reputation as a war hero helped get him elected; he served one term in the House of Representatives. 
• After losing his seat to his white Democratic opponent, Nash returned to New Orleans and worked as a bricklayer and cigar maker. He died in New Orleans on June 21, 1913 at the age of 69.
• Louisiana would not elect another Black Representative until William Jefferson of New Orleans, who was sworn in on January 3, 1991.

Charles Edmund Nash

1875

Brady-Handy Collection

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C.

Image courtesy of Library of Congress: Hon. Charles Edmund Nash of LA. Private in 82nd Reg't U.S. Vol. U.S.A. Lost leg at Fort Blakely.