Alfred Morrison Lay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alfred Morrison Lay
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Missouri's 7th district |
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| In office March 4, 1879 – December 8, 1879 |
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| Preceded by | Thomas T. Crittenden |
| Succeeded by | John F. Philips |
| Personal details | |
| Born | May 20, 1836 Lewis County, Missouri |
| Died | December 8, 1879 (aged 43) Washington, D.C. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Profession | lawyer |
Alfred Morrison Lay (May 20, 1836 – December 8, 1879) was an important American politician. He served as a U.S. Representative for Missouri. Lay was also a lawyer and a soldier. He lived in the 1800s and helped shape his state's laws.
Contents
The Life of Alfred Morrison Lay
Early Years and School
Alfred Morrison Lay was born on May 20, 1836. His birthplace was Lewis County, Missouri. When he was six years old, in 1842, his family moved. They settled in Benton County, Missouri. Alfred went to private schools as a young boy. Later, he attended Bethany College in Virginia. He graduated from college in 1856. This college is now located in West Virginia.
Becoming a Lawyer
After college, Alfred Lay decided to study law. He worked hard to learn about legal matters. In 1857, he passed his exams and became a lawyer. He started his law practice in Jefferson City, Missouri. This was an important step in his career.
Serving as a District Attorney
President Buchanan chose Alfred Lay for a special job. He was appointed as the United States district attorney. This role was for the western part of Missouri. He worked in this position until 1861. At that time, he chose to resign from the job.
Military Service
Alfred Lay also served in the military. He first joined the Missouri State Guard as a private. A private is the lowest rank. He was later promoted to the rank of major. After his command ended, he returned to Missouri. He then served as a captain of ordnance. This was for the Confederate States Army.
A Career in Politics
After his time in the military, Alfred Lay went back to practicing law. He worked again in Jefferson City, Missouri. In 1875, he took on another public role. He was a member of the State constitutional convention. This group helped write the state's constitution.
Serving in Congress
Alfred Lay was a member of the Democratic Party. He was elected to the Forty-sixth Congress. This meant he became a U.S. Representative. He started his term on March 4, 1879. He served in Congress until his death.
His Final Days
Alfred Morrison Lay passed away on December 8, 1879. He was in Washington, D.C. at the time. He was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. This cemetery is in Jefferson City, Missouri.
