Elias S. Stover facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elias S. Stover
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Elias S. Stover, 1892
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| Born | November 22, 1836 |
| Died | February 3, 1927 (aged 90) |
Elias Sleeper Stover (born November 22, 1836 – died February 3, 1927) was an important American businessman, politician, and the first president of the University of New Mexico. He played a big role in developing both Kansas and New Mexico.
Contents
Elias S. Stover's Journey
Early Life and Military Service
Elias Stover was born in Maine. His father was a sea captain, and Elias first followed in his footsteps, working on ships. In 1858, he moved to Kansas.
During the American Civil War, Stover joined the Union Army. He was an artillery officer in the 2nd Regiment Kansas Volunteer Cavalry. He fought in several important battles, including the Battle of Cane Hill, the Battle of Prairie Grove, and the Battle of Dardanelle. He was promoted to captain in 1863, showing his leadership skills.
Political Career in Kansas
After the war, Stover became involved in politics. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the Kansas state legislature for three terms. In 1867, he was in the House of Representatives. Later, in 1871 and 1872, he served in the Kansas Senate.
In 1873, Stover was elected the seventh Lieutenant Governor of Kansas. This meant he was the second-highest elected official in the state, serving under the Governor.
Moving to New Mexico
In 1876, Elias Stover moved to New Mexico. He continued his political work there. From 1881 to 1883, he was a County Commissioner for Bernalillo County. This role involved managing local government affairs.
In 1889, he was part of a special meeting called a constitutional convention. This group helped create important rules for the territory. He also served in the New Mexico Territorial legislature in 1891.
First President of the University of New Mexico
One of Stover's most notable achievements was becoming the first president of the University of New Mexico. He held this important position from 1891 to 1897. He helped shape the early years of this major university.
Business Ventures
Stover was also a successful businessman. In Kansas, he helped start the First National Bank of Council Grove. He also worked as an Indian agent for the Kaw tribe in 1867. An Indian agent was a government official who worked with Native American tribes.
In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Stover was a key partner in Stover, Crary, and Co. This was a large company that sold groceries wholesale. He also helped establish the First National Bank of Albuquerque.
Developing Albuquerque
Stover played a big part in the growth of Albuquerque. When the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad was planning to build through the area around 1879-1880, they needed land. Stover, along with other local businessmen, formed a company called the New Mexico Town Company. This company bought a large area of land near the existing town. This land was used for the railroad's shops and yards, helping to create a new part of Albuquerque.
Stover also served as the first president of the New Mexico Territorial Fair in 1881. This fair was an important event for the community.
Legacy
Today, Stover Avenue in Albuquerque is named after Elias S. Stover. This shows how important he was to the city's history.
Family Life
Elias Stover married Susan Gage in 1874. They had one child named Roderick Stover. After Susan passed away, Elias married Margaret Zearing in 1920.
