Edward L. Molineux

Edward L. Molineux (October 12, 1833 – June 10, 1915) was an American business executive and military officer from New York City. A veteran of the American Civil War, he served in the New York Militia in the 1850s, and in the United States Volunteers during the war. After the war, he continued to serve in the state militia (later the National Guard), and he attained the rank of major general as commander of New York's 2nd Division.

A native of London, Molineux was raised and educated in New York City, attended the Mechanics' Society School, and was trained as a paint maker. In 1854, he began his military career by enlisting in the state militia's 13th Regiment. At the start of the American Civil War, he transferred to the 7th New York Militia Regiment. After receiving his commission as inspector of the 11th Brigade with the rank of major, he played a key role in raising the brigade's 23rd Regiment, which resulted in his election as the regiment's lieutenant colonel and second-in-command. In August 1862, he took part in raising and equipping the 159th New York Infantry Regiment; appointed as the regimental lieutenant colonel, he was advanced to colonel and commander after the unit's first commander resigned.

During his wartime service, Molineux took part in engagements in the southern United States, including the Siege of Port Hudson and Red River campaign. Subsequent assignments included command of 2nd Brigade, 2nd Division, XIX Corps, and the Lafourche Military District. He was later assigned to Virginia, where he took part in the Valley campaigns of 1864, including the Battle of Cedar Creek. He later served as commander of the Military District of Northern Georgia. At the end of the war, he received brevet promotion to major general as a commendation of the superior service he displayed during the war.

After the Civil War, Molineux resumed his career in the paint manufacturing business, and he eventually became the manager of the Devoe & Raynolds Company's Brooklyn factory, in addition to acquiring an ownership interest in the company and serving on its board of directors. He also continued his membership in the militia, which was later retitled the National Guard. Molineux eventually commanded the 11th Brigade as a brigadier general, and the 2nd Division as a major general. In the late 1890s and early 1900s, Molineux devoted most of his time, effort, and fortune to the defense of his son Roland, who was accused of murder in the well-known People v. Molineux case. Molineux died in Manhattan on June 10, 1915, and was buried at Saint James the Less Episcopal Church Cemetery in Scarsdale.