Background
Semmes was born in Charles County, Maryland, United States, in 1811.
Semmes was born in Charles County, Maryland, United States, in 1811.
He had one brother, Raphael, who went on to become an Admiral in the Confederate States Navy. Samuel graduated from Georgetown University, and was admitted to the bar in Allegany County. He drafted most of the charters of the pioneering coal companies in Allegany County.
He served as state senator from 1855 to 1866.
He was associated with Lulworth Iron, and the New York Mining Company.