Ephraim Blakeslee facts for kids

Ephraim Blakeslee was an important person from Wisconsin. He served as a soldier in the American Civil War and later became a politician. He was a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, which is a part of the state government that makes laws.

Ephraim Blakeslee's Life Story

Early Life and Military Service

Ephraim Blakeslee was born on May 12, 1838, in a place called Fenner, New York. When he was a young child, his family moved to Wisconsin. They settled near a town called Ironton in Sauk County. He grew up on a farm and was quite tall and strong. He was about 6 feet tall with brown hair and brown eyes.

When he was 23, Ephraim married Mary Ballard. Just six months later, in September 1861, he decided to join the Union Army. This was during the American Civil War. He became a soldier in Company B of the 12th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment.

Ephraim was a brave soldier. He started as a First Sergeant. Then, in May 1862, he became a Second Lieutenant. He was promoted again to First Lieutenant in January 1864. Later, he was put in charge of Company E. One of the soldiers who served with him, Hosea Rood, said that everyone liked Ephraim very much. He was a great leader and a good friend.

Ephraim Blakeslee took part in some very important battles and campaigns. These included the Atlanta campaign, the famous March to the Sea, and the Carolina campaign. In April 1865, he received another promotion, becoming a Captain of Company H. He finished his service in July of that year.

Life After the War

After the war, Ephraim Blakeslee returned to Sauk County, Wisconsin. He sold his family's farm and moved into the town of Ironton. There, he started a business selling goods.

Ephraim and his wife Mary had three children together. Sadly, Mary passed away in 1871. Two years later, Ephraim married Caroline Swift. Ephraim Blakeslee lived a long life. He died on February 22, 1911, when he was 72 years old. He is buried at Resting Green Cemetery in Ironton.

A Public Servant

Ephraim Blakeslee was also involved in politics. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the Wisconsin State Assembly during the years 1880 and 1881. This means he helped make laws for the state of Wisconsin.