Edward Ferrero One of the most prominent dance teachers and choreographers in US history. Date of Birth: 18.01.1831 Country: USA

Biography of Edward Ferrero

Edward Ferrero was one of the most prominent dance teachers and choreographers in the history of the United States. He was born in Granada, Spain, to Italian parents. However, his family moved to New York City when he was just 13 months old. His father, a renowned dancer and personal friend of Garibaldi, opened a dance academy. When his father retired, Edward took over the academy.

Many students from the upper classes of New York City learned from Ferrero, and the dances he taught gradually spread throughout the country. His reputation as a dance master grew, and even the employees of the United States Military Academy sought his services. In 1859, Ferrero published a book called "The Art of Dancing."

Despite his success in the world of dance, Ferrero also had a deep interest in military affairs. This interest was influenced by his interactions with Garibaldi and his own uncle, Colonel Lewis Ferrero, a veteran of the Crimean War and the Italian military campaign. Edward himself served for six years in the 11th New York Militia Regiment, eventually rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel. His dance skills came in handy during his military service, as his troops excelled in marching.

When the Civil War broke out, Ferrero's artistic abilities took a backseat to his military duties. He formed his own regiment at his own expense and joined the war effort. He participated in various battles, including the siege of a Confederate stronghold on Roanoke Island and the battle of Antietam, where his bravery earned him a promotion to brigadier general of the Union forces.

In early 1863, Ferrero was sent to the western front, where his brigade distinguished itself during the siege of Vicksburg. He later commanded a division during the Knoxville Campaign and was in charge of the defense of Fort Sanders. In December 1864, Ferrero was promoted to major general. On August 24, 1865, he left the military and returned home to New York City.

Instead of restoring his old dance academy, Ferrero built a new school in a rented building, which soon gained worldwide fame as Apollo Hall. In 1872, he terminated the lease and a theater was built in its place. His next project was Tammany Hall, a ballroom. Renting the venue allowed Ferrero to join the Tammany Society, a division of the Democratic Party. Although he was active in politics, Ferrero never held any official positions, as he primarily focused on veteran affairs.

Around the same time, Edward published his second work, "The History of Dancing," which continues to be reprinted to this day. In May 1899, Ferrero retired due to various health issues that plagued him as a dancer and a military man. Sadly, he passed away at the end of 1899 and was buried in Brooklyn.