James Fagan (farmer-politician) facts for kids

James Fagan (July 4, 1806 – February 11, 1868) was an Irish American immigrant and farmer. He was also a pioneer in Wisconsin. Fagan was a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, which is like a state parliament. He represented Washington County in 1849 and 1857. He also helped write the Constitution of Wisconsin, which is the main set of laws for the state.

Early Life and Moving to America

James Fagan was born on July 4, 1806, in County Westmeath, Ireland. He grew up to become a farmer. In 1837, he moved to the United States. He first settled in Orange County, New York. His younger brother, Thomas, soon followed him there.

While in New York, James worked as a night watchman. In 1842, he married Anna Monahan. They had their first son before moving to Wisconsin Territory in 1844. James bought a large farm of 280 acres in a place called Jackson. His brother Thomas also moved to Wisconsin and settled nearby.

James Fagan's Public Service

James Fagan was an important person in his community. He was elected to represent Jackson as a county supervisor from 1847 to 1849. This job meant he helped manage local government.

Helping Write Wisconsin's Constitution

In 1847, Wisconsin was becoming a state. Leaders held a special meeting called a constitutional convention. Their goal was to write the state's main laws, the Constitution of Wisconsin. James Fagan was chosen to be a delegate from Washington County. He helped decide how the state would be run. He worked on a committee that focused on education and how schools would be funded.

Serving in the State Assembly

In 1848, Fagan was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly. He represented the 2nd Washington County district. This included the towns of Jackson and Grafton. He served in the Assembly during the 1849 session. After his term, another Democrat, Eugene S. Turner, took his place.

Fagan was elected to the Assembly again in 1857. This time, he represented the new 3rd Washington County district. This district included the towns of Farmington, Germantown, Jackson, and Trenton. He was followed in office by Charles W. Detmering in 1858.

Later, from 1866 to 1867, Fagan was elected to the county Board of Commissioners. He was even chosen as the chairman of the county board.

Family and Passing Away

James and Anna Fagan had five sons. Their family was very religious and devout Catholics. One of their sons even became a priest. James Fagan passed away on February 11, 1868. He died from facial cancer.