Harry I. Thornton facts for kids

Harry Innis Thornton Jr. (born around 1834 – died February 25, 1895) was an American politician and lawyer. He was a member of the Democratic Party in California.

Early Life and Moving West

Harry Innis Thornton Jr. was born in Greene County, Alabama. His family later moved to California. His father, Harry Innis Thornton Sr., was a judge and a member of the Alabama Legislature. In 1851, his father moved to California. He was chosen to be part of a special group called the Public Land Commission. This group helped decide who owned land in California. By 1854, Harry Jr.'s sister and her husband, James D. Thornton, also moved to San Francisco.

A Career in Politics

In the 1850s, Harry Thornton Jr. became a member of the California State Senate. This meant he helped make laws for California. As the American Civil War began, he gave a speech in the Senate. He spoke about his belief that Southern states had the right to leave the United States.

Serving in the Civil War

After giving his speech, Harry Thornton Jr. left his job in the California Legislature. He decided to join the Army of the Confederate States of America. He fought for the Southern states during the Civil War. In September 1863, he was wounded during the Battle of Chickamauga. He was serving with the 58th Regiment Alabama Infantry at the time.

Life After the War

After the Civil War ended, Harry Thornton Jr. returned to California. He became a lawyer and worked in both California and Nevada. He often handled legal cases about mining. Harry Innis Thornton Jr. passed away in Fresno, California, on February 25, 1895.