Ira Ford facts for kids

Ira Ford was an important person who served in the Wisconsin State Assembly. This means he was a lawmaker for the state of Wisconsin. He also fought as a soldier in the American Civil War.

Ira Ford's Early Life and Adventures

Ira Ford was born on June 11, 1827, in a town called Granville, Vermont. When he was 22 years old, in 1849, he went to California. He joined many others in the exciting California Gold Rush. People hoped to find gold and become rich.

After a few years, in 1852, Ira Ford moved to Columbia County, Wisconsin. He had visited relatives there and really liked the area. He decided to make it his home. Later in life, he passed away in Columbus, Wisconsin, on August 3, 1903.

Serving in the Civil War

During the American Civil War, Ira Ford bravely served as a soldier. This war was fought between the northern states (the Union) and the southern states (the Confederacy). Ford joined the Union Army, which was the army of the northern states.

He was part of the 18th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He rose through the ranks and became a captain. This meant he led a group of soldiers. During a big battle called the Battle of Shiloh, Captain Ford was captured. He became a prisoner of war and was held in different places until he was released.

Ira Ford's Political Career

After the war, Ira Ford decided to serve his community in a different way. He became a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly. This is where state laws are made. He served in this role from 1867 to 1868.

When he was elected, he was part of the National Union Party. This party was actually what the Republican Party was called during that time. It was a way for people from different groups to come together after the Civil War.