George Washington Bolton facts for kids

George Washington Bolton (born September 15, 1841 – died August 2, 1931) was an important person in Louisiana. He was a successful businessman, a politician who helped make laws, and a member of the school board. He made a big difference in the Rapides Parish area of Louisiana.

Early Life and Education

George Washington Bolton was born in Georgia on September 15, 1841. His parents were Eliza and Elisha P. Bolton. When he was 16, his family moved to Shiloh, Louisiana. He learned a lot from his father, who ran a private school in Shiloh.

Military Service and Early Career

In 1861, George Bolton joined the Confederate Army. He fought in the American Civil War with the 12th Louisiana Infantry. He was hurt during the Battle of Nashville. By the end of the war, he had become a sergeant.

After the war, he taught school for a year in Shiloh. Then, he started working in business in Winnfield, Louisiana. From 1869 to 1900, he led a business in Pineville, Louisiana.

Public Service and Business Leadership

George Bolton was very active in his community. He served on the Rapides Parish Police Jury, which is like a local government council. He was also a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1888 to 1896. During part of that time, from 1892 to 1896, he was the Speaker of the House. This meant he was in charge of leading the meetings and discussions in the House.

He was also a very successful businessman and banker. In 1888, he started the Rapides Bank and Trust Company in Alexandria, Louisiana. He was the bank's president until 1912. After that, he became the chairman until he died in 1931. This bank later joined with Bank One Corporation. In 1900, he was the first president of the Louisiana Bankers Association.

Bolton also helped found two churches: Emmanuel Baptist Church in Alexandria and First Baptist Church in Pineville. He cared about education and served on the Rapides Parish School Board. He was also a leader in a local group called the Masons in Pineville.

Family Life

In October 1868, George Bolton married Tennessee Wade. They had ten children together, but only six lived to adulthood. Their children included James W. Bolton, G.F. Bolton, Frank P. Bolton, J.P. Bolton, R.C. Bolton, and Bertha Hall. His wife, Tennessee, passed away on July 10, 1931. Al Bolton, who was also well-known, was his grandson.

Later Years and Passing

George Washington Bolton died on August 2, 1931, at his home in Alexandria. He was buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Pineville, Louisiana.

Lasting Legacy

George Washington Bolton left a lasting mark on the area. Bolton Avenue in Alexandria is named after him. Also, Bolton High School in Alexandria was named in his honor. The Louisiana Digital Library has a photograph of him and a letter he wrote in 1863.