Isaac Clements facts for kids

Isaac Clements (born March 31, 1837 – died May 31, 1909) was an important person from Illinois. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he was elected to speak for his state in the United States government.

Who Was Isaac Clements?

Isaac Clements was a politician and a soldier. He was born in Indiana and later moved to Illinois. He is best known for serving in the U.S. Congress. He also fought in the American Civil War.

Early Life and Education

Isaac Clements was born on March 31, 1837. His birthplace was near a town called Brookville, Indiana. He went to local schools as a child.

Later, he attended Indiana Asbury College. This college is now known as DePauw University. He graduated from there in 1859. After college, he studied law in Greencastle, Indiana. He then moved to Illinois and worked as a teacher.

Serving His Country

In July 1861, Isaac Clements joined the Union Army. This was during the American Civil War. He served as a second lieutenant. He was part of Company G, Ninth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry.

He served in the army for more than three years. During this time, he was promoted twice. His military service showed his dedication to his country.

A Career in Politics

After his military service, Isaac Clements continued to serve the public. In June 1867, he was appointed as a register in bankruptcy. This role helped manage financial problems for people.

Time in Congress

Isaac Clements was a member of the Republican Party. He was elected to the Forty-third Congress. This term lasted from March 4, 1873, to March 3, 1875. As a U.S. Representative, he helped make laws for the country.

He tried to be reelected in 1874. However, he was not successful in winning a seat in the Forty-fourth Congress.

Other Public Roles

Even after his time in Congress, Clements continued in public service. In 1877, he was appointed a United States penitentiary commissioner. This job involved overseeing prisons.

From March 18, 1890, to November 4, 1893, he worked in Chicago, Illinois. He was a United States pension agent there. This role helped distribute money to people who had served in the military.

Final Years

In 1899, Isaac Clements moved to Normal, Illinois. There, he became the Superintendent of the Soldiers' Orphans' Home. This home cared for children whose parents had died serving in the military.

Isaac Clements passed away in Danville, Illinois, on May 31, 1909. He was buried in Home Cemetery.