Erasmus W. Beck facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Erasmus W. Beck
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Georgia's 4th district
In office December 2, 1872 – March 3, 1873
Preceded by	Thomas J. Speer
Succeeded by	Henry R. Harris
Personal details
Born	(1833-10-21)October 21, 1833 McDonough, Georgia
Died	July 22, 1898(1898-07-22) (aged 64) Griffin, Georgia
Political party	Democratic
Alma mater	Mercer University

Erasmus Williams Beck (born October 21, 1833 – died July 22, 1898) was an important American politician from Georgia. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he was a member of the United States Congress. He also worked as a lawyer and a judge.

Early Life and Education

Erasmus Williams Beck was born in McDonough, Georgia, which is in Henry County, Georgia. As a young person, he went to local schools in his hometown. He also attended a private school. Later, he studied for two years at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.

In 1855, he returned to McDonough because he wasn't feeling well. During this time, he started studying law. The next year, he moved to Griffin, Georgia, and continued his law studies there. By 1856, he passed his exams and became a lawyer. He then started his law practice in Griffin.

Service During the Civil War

During the American Civil War, Erasmus Beck joined the Confederate States Army for a short time. However, he had to leave the army because of his health. Even though he couldn't serve in the military for long, he still helped during the war. He was appointed as a "solicitor general" for the Flint circuit. This job meant he was a legal officer who represented the government in court cases.

Political Career

After the Civil War, Erasmus Beck became involved in politics. He was a member of the Democratic Party. In 1872, he was elected to the 42nd United States Congress. He took the place of Thomas J. Speer, who had passed away.

Beck served in Congress from December 2, 1872, until March 3, 1873. This was a short term. He decided not to run for re-election in 1872.

After his time in Congress, he went back to working as a lawyer in Griffin, Georgia. Later in his life, he became a judge. From 1890 until his death, he served as the judge of the city court in Griffin.

Later Years

Erasmus Williams Beck passed away in Griffin, Georgia, on July 22, 1898. He was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery in Griffin.