H. E. Eastman facts for kids

Harry Eugene Eastman (born March 25, 1819 – died March 22, 1898) was an American lawyer and businessman. He was an early settler in Wisconsin. He became the third Mayor of Green Bay, Wisconsin. He also served as an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. People often called him H. E. Eastman.

Early Life and Moving West

Harry Eugene Eastman was born in Maine on March 25, 1819. He grew up in Franklin County, Maine. There, he studied and became a lawyer. In 1840, he moved west to the Wisconsin Territory. He settled in a place called Green Bay. He started a law business with other lawyers. Later, after 1846, he began working with real estate. He was very successful in this new business.

Public Service in Green Bay

Mr. Eastman also became involved in politics. He joined the Whig Party. In 1848, he led the Wisconsin group at a big meeting. This meeting was to choose a candidate for President. His group supported Henry Clay for President.

After Green Bay became a city, Eastman was elected mayor. He became the third mayor in 1856. He was re-elected for another year in 1857.

Serving in the Civil War

After being mayor, Eastman bought steamboats. He planned to run a ferry service. But his plans changed because of the American Civil War. In the first year of the war, he volunteered to serve. He became a major in the 2nd Wisconsin Cavalry Regiment.

The 2nd Wisconsin Cavalry fought in many battles. They helped in the Siege of Vicksburg in 1863. Major Eastman was promoted to lieutenant colonel in April 1864. However, he had to leave the army two months later due to illness. After returning to Wisconsin, he was sick for several weeks.

In his later years, he moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan. He passed away there in 1898.

Family Life

Eastman married Elizabeth Margaret Arndt on March 3, 1843. Elizabeth was the daughter of John Penn Arndt. He was an important early settler in Green Bay. Harry and Elizabeth Eastman had six children together.