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Henry Johnson Brodhead Cummings
HJBCummings.jpg
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Iowa's 7th district
In office
March 4, 1877 – March 3, 1879
Preceded by John A. Kasson
Succeeded by Edward H. Gillette
Personal details
Born (1831-05-21)May 21, 1831
Newton, New Jersey, USA
Died April 16, 1909(1909-04-16) (aged 77)
Winterset, Iowa, USA
Political party Republican
Profession Politician, Lawyer, Editor

Henry Johnson Brodhead Cummings (born May 21, 1831 – died April 16, 1909) was an important person in American history. He was a lawyer, a brave officer in the American Civil War, and he worked as an editor and publisher. He also served one term as a Republican Congressman for Iowa.

Early Life and Education

Henry J. B. Cummings was born on May 21, 1831. His birthplace was Newton, New Jersey, in the United States. As a child, he went to public schools. These schools were located in Muncy, Pennsylvania.

In 1850, when he was about 19, he became an editor. He worked for a newspaper in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. Later, he decided to study law. He worked hard and became a lawyer in 1855.

Moving to Iowa

In 1856, Mr. Cummings moved to Winterset, Iowa. This town would become very important in his life. Soon after moving, he started working for the local government. From 1856 to 1858, he was the prosecuting attorney. This meant he represented the state in legal cases for Madison County.

Service in the Civil War

The American Civil War began in 1861. Henry Cummings chose to join the Union Army. He enlisted in July 1861. He was made a captain in Company F. This company was part of the 4th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

Later, on September 12, 1862, he received a new role. He became a colonel. He led the 39th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment. Colonel Cummings served bravely during the war. He was honorably discharged from the army on December 22, 1864.

After the War

After his military service, Henry Cummings returned to civilian life. He went back to Winterset, Iowa. He became the editor and owner of a newspaper. This newspaper was called the Winterset Madisonian.

Political Career

In 1876, Henry Cummings decided to run for Congress. He was a member of the Republican Party. He wanted to represent Iowa's 7th Congressional District. He won the election and took the place of John A. Kasson.

He served in the U. S. House of Representatives. This was during the 45th United States Congress. His term lasted from 1877 to 1879.

Re-election Attempt

In 1879, Mr. Cummings tried to be re-elected. However, he was not successful this time. He was defeated by Edward Hooker Gillette. Mr. Gillette was a candidate from the Greenback Party.

Later Life and Legacy

Henry J. B. Cummings passed away in Winterset, Iowa. His death occurred on April 16, 1909. He was buried in the Winterset Cemetery. He is remembered for his work as a lawyer, a military officer, a newspaper editor, and a Congressman.

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