Alfred Milnes facts for kids
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Alfred Milnes (May 28, 1844 – January 15, 1916) was an important politician from the U.S. state of Michigan. He served in various government roles, including a time in the U.S. Congress.
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Early Life and Adventures
Alfred Milnes was born in Bradford, England, in 1844. When he was ten years old, his family joined the LDS Church. In 1854, they left England for America.
Their journey was long and exciting. They sailed for sixty days from Liverpool to New Orleans. From there, they traveled by boat to St. Louis and then to Kansas City, Missouri. Alfred's father bought a wagon, and they continued their journey overland to Salt Lake City. This part of the trip took sixteen weeks! They arrived in Salt Lake City on September 25, 1854.
After a few years, his family moved to Springville, Utah. Later, his father decided to leave the Mormon community. They sold their property and traveled by oxen-drawn wagon. They spent a winter in Newton, Iowa. In 1861, they finally reached Coldwater, Michigan. Alfred was seventeen years old when they arrived. His father opened a small store and became a successful merchant.
School and War Service
Alfred had attended schools in Salt Lake City and Newton. In Coldwater, he worked during the summer. He continued his schooling in the winter.
When the American Civil War began, Alfred Milnes joined the army. He became a private in the Michigan Volunteer Infantry on June 30, 1862. His group went to Washington, D.C.. He fought in several major battles. These included the Battle of South Mountain and the Battle of Antietam in Maryland. His regiment lost many soldiers in these fights.
He also saw action in the Battle of Fredericksburg. His group later helped chase Confederate General John Hunt Morgan. They also served during the Siege of Vicksburg. Alfred's regiment then moved through Kentucky and Tennessee. They fought in the Battle of Campbell's Station and the Siege of Knoxville.
Later, his regiment joined the Army of the Potomac. They faced heavy losses in the Battle of the Wilderness. Only a few soldiers from his original group remained. These survivors served as guards until the war ended.
Life After the War
After the war, Alfred Milnes returned to Coldwater at age 21. He worked for his father's business. In 1871, he started his own business partnership. It was called "Mines & Vanderhoof." This business did very well for ten years. Then, Alfred sold his share and started his own company.
On January 6, 1868, Alfred married Lucina E. Hull. They had three children: Alfred Cyrus, Maude L., and Mabel F.
Political Career
Alfred Milnes became involved in politics in Coldwater. He was a member of the city's board of aldermen in 1876 and 1877. He was then elected mayor of Coldwater in 1885 and 1886. From 1888 to 1890, he served in the Michigan Senate.
In 1894, he was elected the 28th Lieutenant Governor of Michigan. He worked with Governor John T. Rich. He served until June 1, 1895, when he resigned.
Serving in Congress
In April 1895, Alfred Milnes was chosen in a special election. He became a Republican representative for Michigan's 3rd congressional district. He filled a spot in the 54th United States Congress. He served from December 2, 1895, to March 3, 1897.
He tried to be re-elected in 1896 but was not successful. In 1898, he was appointed postmaster of Coldwater. He held this job until 1902. He also helped write the Michigan state constitution in 1907 and 1908.
Later Life
After his political career, Alfred Milnes worked in real estate and insurance in Coldwater. He continued this work until he passed away on January 15, 1916. He was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Coldwater.
Images for kids
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Livingstone's History of the Republican Party, c. 1900
