Ira M. Hedges facts for kids

Ira M. Hedges, a businessman and politician from New York.

Ira Munn Hedges (born July 31, 1839 – died April 9, 1902) was an American businessman and politician from New York. He played important roles in both business and government during his life.

Early Life and Education

Ira Hedges was born on July 31, 1839, in Grassy Point, New York. His parents were Phineas Hedges and Eliza Edwards. He went to school at the Haverstraw Mountain Institute. After school, he began studying law with Judge Edward Pye in Rockland County, New York. His law studies were interrupted when the American Civil War began.

Serving in the Civil War

In October 1861, Ira Hedges joined the army as a private. He was part of Company F in the 95th New York Volunteer Infantry. He quickly moved up in rank, becoming a corporal in February 1862 and then a quartermaster sergeant in December 1863. He left the army in November 1864.

His army company was first put together by Judge Pye, who later became a colonel. Colonel Pye sadly died during the Battle of Cold Harbor. Ira Hedges was offered a higher rank three times, even a major position for the United States Colored Troops, but he chose not to accept them. He also worked as an acting ordnance sergeant, helping with military supplies, during the Battle of Antietam. While he was in the hospital with typhoid fever, he was captured by General J. E. B. Stuart near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. However, he was later set free.

Business Career

After the Civil War ended, Ira Hedges went back to work on his father's farm for a short time. He then moved to Haverstraw, New York and started working in the lumber and coal business.

In 1870, he began working in brick manufacturing. He helped create the Diamond Brick Company and became its president. He also helped start the National Bank of Haverstraw in 1871. He served as a director, vice-president, and later president of the bank. Ira Hedges was also involved with other companies, including the Haverstraw Barge and Towing Company, the North River and New York Steamboat Company, and the Crystal Salt Company.

Political Life

Ira Hedges was a member of the Republican Party. In 1889, he ran for New York State Treasurer, but he lost the election to Elliott Danforth. He tried again for the same position in 1891, but he lost to Danforth once more.

In 1894, he was chosen as a delegate to the New York State Constitutional Convention. This was a meeting to discuss and change the state's constitution. The next year, in 1895, he was appointed Capital Commissioner. In this role, he helped oversee the building of the New York State Capitol building.

Community and Veteran Involvement

Ira Hedges was very active in groups for Civil War veterans. He was the Commander of the Department of New York for the Grand Army of the Republic, which was a large organization for Union veterans. He was also an Inspector-General for the national organization.

He served as vice-president of the Society of the Army of the Potomac. He also helped start the Haverstraw group of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. Ira Hedges was also a member of the American Scenic and Historic Preservation Society.

Family and Later Life

In 1866, Ira Hedges married Jeanette S. Knapp. They had three daughters named Margaret, Irene, and Lila.

Ira Hedges passed away at his home on April 9, 1902. He died from Bright's Disease, which affects the kidneys. He was buried in the Mount Repose Cemetery in Haverstraw.