David M. Key facts for kids
David McKendree Key (January 27, 1824 – February 3, 1900) was an important American politician and judge. He was born in Tennessee and lived until 1900. During his life, he served as a Senator for Tennessee, a top government official in charge of mail (Postmaster General), and a federal judge.
Quick facts for kids
David M. Key
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| Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee Judge of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee |
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| In office May 27, 1880 – January 21, 1895 |
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| Appointed by | Rutherford B. Hayes |
| Preceded by | Connally Findlay Trigg |
| Succeeded by | Charles Dickens Clark |
| 27th United States Postmaster General | |
| In office March 12, 1877 – June 2, 1880 |
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| President | Rutherford B. Hayes |
| Preceded by | James Noble Tyner |
| Succeeded by | Horace Maynard |
| United States Senator from Tennessee |
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| In office August 18, 1875 – January 19, 1877 |
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| Preceded by | Andrew Johnson |
| Succeeded by | James E. Bailey |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
David McKendree Key
January 27, 1824 Greeneville, Tennessee |
| Died | February 3, 1900 (aged 76) Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| Resting place | Forest Hill Cemetery Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Education | Hiwassee College University of Tennessee (A.M.) read law |
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| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  Confederate States |
| Branch/service |  Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit |  43rd Tennessee Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Contents
Early Life and Education
David McKendree Key was born on January 27, 1824. His birthplace was near Greeneville, in Greene County, Tennessee. He went to local schools as a child.
Later, he attended Hiwassee College and graduated in 1850. He also studied law by himself, which was a common way to become a lawyer back then. He earned a Master of Arts degree from East Tennessee University, which is now known as the University of Tennessee.
Becoming a Lawyer and Soldier
After studying law, David Key became a lawyer. He worked in private law practices in different towns in Tennessee. He started in Madisonville (1850-1852), then Kingston (1852-1853), and finally Chattanooga (1853-1861).
He was also involved in politics early on. He supported the Democratic Party and was a Presidential Elector in 1856 and 1860.
When the American Civil War began in 1861, David Key joined the Confederate States Army. He served until 1865 and rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. After the war, he returned to his law practice in Chattanooga. He also helped write the Tennessee state constitution in 1870. From 1870 to 1875, he served as a Chancellor for the Tennessee Chancery Court.
Serving in the Senate
In 1875, David Key was chosen to become a United States Senator for Tennessee. He filled a spot that became open after the death of former President Andrew Johnson. Key served in the Senate from August 18, 1875, to January 19, 1877.
Postmaster General
From 1877 to 1880, David Key held a very important job in the United States government. He was the United States Postmaster General. This meant he was in charge of the entire postal service for the country.
He was part of President Rutherford B. Hayes's cabinet. Key was the only Democrat in Hayes's cabinet, which was unusual at the time. His appointment was part of a political agreement called the Compromise of 1877.
Becoming a Federal Judge
After his time as Postmaster General, President Rutherford B. Hayes nominated David Key to become a federal judge. On May 27, 1880, he became a judge for two important courts: the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.
He served as a federal judge for many years, until he retired on January 21, 1895.
Later Life and Legacy
David McKendree Key passed away on February 3, 1900, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He was buried in Forest Hill Cemetery in Chattanooga. He is remembered for his long career serving the public in various important roles.
Images for kids
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David Key's signature
