James Fergus facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James Fergus
James Fergus, ca 1885
Born	Lanarkshire, Scotland
Nationality	Scottish-American (naturalized 1842)
Occupation	Businessman, cattleman, miner, politician

James Fergus was an important person who lived a long time ago. He was born in Scotland in 1813 and passed away in 1902. James was a miner, a rancher, and a smart businessman. He also worked in politics in both Minnesota and Montana. He moved from Scotland and became a US citizen. He helped start new towns and areas as America grew westward.

Early Life and Family

James Fergus was born in 1813 in a place called Lanarkshire, Scotland. When he was a young man, he moved to the United States in 1835. He traveled through Canada to get there.

James helped start two towns in Minnesota. He was one of the people who founded Little Falls, Minnesota. Later, he also founded Fergus Falls, Minnesota. In October 1842, James officially became a citizen of the United States.

In 1845, James Fergus married Pamelia Dillins in Moline, Illinois. They had four children together: Andrew, Mary Agnes, Luella, and Lillie.

Getting Involved in Politics

After becoming a US citizen, James Fergus became very interested in politics. He wanted to help his community.

Serving in Minnesota

In 1856, he was chosen to be a Judge of Probate for Morrison County, Minnesota. This meant he helped with legal matters for people who had passed away. Two years later, in 1858, he was elected to be the Treasurer for Morrison County. He managed the county's money for two years.

Moving to Montana Politics

Later, James Fergus and his family moved west to Montana Territory. He quickly became involved in politics there too. In 1869, he was appointed to fill an empty spot as a county commissioner for Lewis and Clark County, Montana. This job involved helping to run the county.

James was a strong supporter of the Republican Party in Montana. He served as a precinct chairman in 1873 and again in 1875. In 1879, he was elected to represent Fergus County in the Territorial House of Representatives. This was like being a state lawmaker before Montana became a state. James also wrote articles in local newspapers to share his ideas.

In 1884, he helped write the rules for Montana to become a state. At the same time, he worked hard to create Fergus County, Montana. Many people consider him the founder of this county.

Growing a Business

James Fergus was also a very successful businessman.

Ranching Operations

In 1895, James Fergus and his son, Andrew Fergus, made their ranching business even bigger. They started a family company called Fergus Livestock and Land Company. This company grew to be one of the largest ranching businesses in central Montana. Their main ranch was located on Armells Creek in northeastern Fergus County.

Later Life and Legacy

James Fergus passed away on June 5, 1902. His son, Andrew Fergus, died in 1928. After they were gone, and because of tough economic times like the Great Depression, the family had to sell their large ranch.

James Fergus is remembered for his important contributions. He was honored by being added to the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame.