Charles Wilson Pierce facts for kids

Charles Wilson Pierce (born October 7, 1823 – died February 18, 1907) was an important figure in American politics. He served as a U.S. Representative for the state of Alabama. This means he was elected by the people of Alabama to represent them in the United States Congress, where laws are made for the whole country.

Charles Wilson Pierce: A Life of Service

Charles Wilson Pierce lived a long life filled with many changes and important roles. He was born in Benton, New York, and later moved to several different states, always taking on new challenges.

Early Life and Military Service

Charles Pierce finished his early schooling in New York. When he was young, his family moved to Sandusky, Ohio, in 1829. Later, in 1847, they moved to Huntsville, Ohio. He then moved to Havana, Illinois, in 1855.

When the Civil War began, Charles Pierce joined the Union Army. He became a first lieutenant in the Eighty-fifth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was later promoted to quartermaster in 1864, which meant he was in charge of supplies for his unit. By 1865, he had become a major.

A Career in Politics

After the Civil War, Charles Pierce settled in Demopolis, Alabama. This was a time when Alabama was rejoining the United States after the war.

Serving in Congress

Because of his leadership, Charles Pierce was elected as a Republican to the Fortieth Congress. He served as a U.S. Representative from July 21, 1868, to March 3, 1869. Even though he was successful, he decided not to run for re-election.

Life After Congress

In 1872, Charles Pierce moved to Nebraska. He continued his public service there.

• In 1875, he was part of the Nebraska State constitutional convention. This was a special meeting to write new rules and laws for the state of Nebraska.
• He was elected to the Nebraska State senate in 1877 and again in 1880. The state senate is part of the state government that helps make laws for Nebraska.
• In 1881, he resigned from the state senate to become the register of the United States land office. In this job, he managed government land records until May 1886.

After his time in the land office, Charles Pierce returned to his farm. He passed away in Hastings, Florida, on February 18, 1907. He was buried in his family's plot near Waverly, Nebraska.