Dexter Russell Wright facts for kids

Dexter Russell Wright (born June 27, 1821 – died July 23, 1886) was an American lawyer and politician. He was known for his work in law and for serving in the government of Connecticut.

Early Life and Education

Dexter Russell Wright was born in Windsor, Vermont, on June 27, 1821. His parents were Alpheus and Anna E. (Loveland) Wright. When he was a boy, his family moved to northern New York State.

In 1843, he started college at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. He graduated from Wesleyan University in 1845. After college, he taught school for a year in Meriden, Connecticut.

Becoming a Lawyer

After teaching, Dexter Wright studied law for two years at the Yale Law School. He earned his law degree in 1848. Soon after, he opened his own law office in Meriden.

Public Service and Military Career

In 1849, Dexter Wright began his career in politics. He was elected to the Connecticut Senate, which is part of the state government. He was quite young to be elected to such an important role.

After serving one term, he traveled to California. He lived there for two years, working as a lawyer. He also bought and sold land, hoping its value would increase.

Return to Connecticut

Dexter Wright then returned to Meriden, Connecticut. He continued to work as a successful lawyer until 1862. That year, he joined the Union Army during the American Civil War.

He became a Colonel in the 15th Connecticut Infantry Regiment. He served from July 1862 until February 1863. He had to leave the army because his health became poor. He was honorably discharged, meaning he left with a good record.

Later Political Roles

In 1863, Dexter Wright became a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives. This is another part of the Connecticut government. From 1863 to 1865, he also helped with military enrollment for his district.

He went back to practicing law in 1864, opening an office in New Haven, Connecticut. He was very successful there. From 1865 to 1869, he worked as an Assistant U.S. District Attorney. He also held many important jobs in the New Haven city government.

In 1879, he was again elected to the Connecticut General Assembly. He was chosen to be the Speaker of the Connecticut House of Representatives, a very important leadership position.

Later Life and Family

In the spring of 1886, Dexter Wright had a bad fall at his home. This accident affected his health. On June 19, he became paralyzed, meaning he could not move parts of his body. He passed away in New Haven on July 23, 1886, at the age of 65.

He married Maria H. Phelps on February 3, 1848. She was the daughter of Colonel Epaphras L. Phelps from East Windsor, Connecticut. Maria survived him, along with their four children: two daughters and two sons. Their younger son graduated from Yale University in 1882.

 This article incorporates public domain material from the 1887 Yale Obituary Record.