His younger brother, Robert C. Schenck, was a Union Army general and a United States Ambassador to Brazil.

Schenck was appointed midshipman in the United States Navy in 1825, and later promoted to lieutenant.

In 1846, Schenck planted American victory flags at Santa Barbara, San Pedro and Pueblo de Los Angeles, claiming the areas as United States territory.

Schenck also commanded Powhatan and the 3rd Division of Admiral David Dixon Porter's fleet in operations against Fort Fisher, and was mentioned for gallantry in Admiral Porter's action report.

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