Sturgis Family Genealogy & History

Frank Anthony Sturgis, originally Frank Angelo Fiorini, is best known as one of the Watergate burglars, a pivotal event leading to President Richard Nixon's resignation. His multifaceted career includes serving in various branches of the U.S. military during WWII, participating in the Cuban Revolution, and working as an undercover CIA operative. Sturgis was also implicated in the JFK assassination. His military service honed his skills in guerrilla tactics and intelligence, influencing his later activities in Cuba, where he supported Fidel Castro's forces through arms smuggling and intelligence operations.

Sturgis's name change in 1952 was a nod to his stepfather, Ralph Sturgis, whom his mother married in 1937, highlighting a familial connection that influenced his identity.

Samuel D. Sturgis was a prominent United States Army officer whose distinguished career spanned the Mexican War, Civil War, and Indian Wars, achieving the rank of brevet major general. Sturgis, known for his leadership at the Battle of Wilson's Creek and later commands in the IX Corps, played a significant role in battles such as South Mountain, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. His legacy includes service as the colonel of the 7th U.S. Cavalry and participation in the campaign against the Nez Percé. Sturgis's perseverance and military strategy left a lasting impact, culminating in his retirement as governor of the Soldiers' Home in Washington, D.C.

Samuel D. Sturgis was born in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, to parents Mary Brandenburg and James Sturgis. He married Jerusha Wilcox in 1851, with whom he had six children. His son, Samuel D. Sturgis Jr., and grandson, Samuel D. Sturgis III, both followed in his footsteps, becoming generals in the United States Army, thereby continuing the family's military legacy across generations.

Julian Russell Sturgis (1848–1904) was a renowned British-American novelist, poet, librettist, and lyricist, celebrated for his contributions to literature and opera. He gained fame as the first American to win an FA Cup Final, playing for the Wanderers. An alumnus of Eton and Balliol College, Oxford, he excelled in sports and law before transitioning to a successful writing career. Notably, he penned the libretti for operas by Arthur Sullivan and others, with "Ivanhoe" being one of his most famous works. Sturgis's writings often featured light comedies set in educational institutions, enhancing his reputation in the literary world.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Julian was the fourth son of Russell Sturgis, a merchant and lawyer, and Julia Overing Boit. His family relocated to England when he was seven months old, where his father joined Baring Brothers. Julian's family background included connections to prominent figures, with his great-grandfather also named Russell Sturgis and his older half-brother, John Hubbard Sturgis. His younger brother, Howard Sturgis, was also a writer.

Caleb James Sturgis, born on August 9, 1989, in St. Augustine, Florida, is an American former professional football player known for his role as a placekicker in the NFL. Sturgis made significant contributions to the Florida Gators during his college career, setting team records for field goals and earning first-team All-American honors. Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL draft, Sturgis showcased his kicking prowess, leading to a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. He later joined the Philadelphia Eagles, where he continued to demonstrate his skills, despite facing challenges, and earned a contract extension in 2016.