Alfred W. Benson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alfred Washburn Benson
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| United States Senator from Kansas |
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| In office June 11, 1906 – January 23, 1907 |
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| Preceded by | Joseph R. Burton |
| Succeeded by | Charles Curtis |
| Member of the Kansas Senate | |
| In office 1881-1885 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | July 15, 1843 Poland, New York |
| Died | January 1, 1916 (aged 72) Topeka, Kansas |
| Political party | Republican |
Alfred Washburn Benson (July 15, 1843 – January 1, 1916) was an important American politician. He served as a United States Senator for the state of Kansas. He also worked as a judge for many years.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Alfred Washburn Benson was born in Poland, Chautauqua County, New York, in 1843. When he was about 17 years old, he moved to Jamestown, New York. He went to school at Jamestown and Randolph Academies. These schools helped him prepare for his future career.
Serving in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Alfred Benson joined the army. He enlisted in 1862 as a private. He was part of the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry. By the end of the war, he had earned the rank of major. This showed his dedication and leadership.
A Career in Law and Politics
After the war, Alfred Benson decided to study law. He became a lawyer in Buffalo, New York, in 1866. He started his law practice in Sherman, New York. A few years later, in 1869, he moved to Ottawa, Kansas.
Serving in the Kansas Government
In Kansas, Alfred Benson became very involved in public service. He held several local jobs in Ottawa. From 1881 to 1885, he was a member of the Kansas Senate. This is part of the state's law-making body.
He then became a judge. He served as a judge for the fourth judicial district of Kansas. This role lasted from 1885 to 1897.
Becoming a United States Senator
In 1906, Alfred Benson was chosen to be a U.S. Senator. He was a member of the Republican Party. He filled a spot that became empty when Senator Joseph R. Burton resigned. Senator Benson served from June 11, 1906, until January 23, 1907. A new senator was then elected to take his place.
A Judge for the Kansas Supreme Court
After his time as a U.S. Senator, Alfred Benson continued his work as a judge. He was appointed to the Kansas Supreme Court. This is the highest court in the state of Kansas. He served as an associate justice from 1907 until 1915. He resigned from this position in 1915.
Later Life and Legacy
Alfred Benson retired from public life after his long career. He passed away in Topeka, Kansas in 1916. He was 72 years old. He was buried in Highland Cemetery in Ottawa, Kansas.
