James Ferguson Dowdell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Ferguson Dowdell
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| President of Auburn University | |
| In office 1868–1870 |
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| Preceded by | William J. Sasnett |
| Succeeded by | Isaac T. Tichenor |
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Alabama's 3rd district |
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| In office March 4, 1855 – March 3, 1859 |
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| Preceded by | Sampson W. Harris |
| Succeeded by | David Clopton |
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Alabama's 7th district |
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| In office March 4, 1853 – March 3, 1855 |
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| Preceded by | Alexander White |
| Succeeded by | Sampson W. Harris |
| Member of the Alabama House of Representatives | |
| In office 1849 1851 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | November 26, 1818 near Monticello, Georgia |
| Died | September 6, 1871 (aged 52) Auburn, Alabama |
| Political party | Democratic |
James Ferguson Dowdell (born November 26, 1818 – died September 6, 1871) was an important person in Alabama's history. He was the second President of East Alabama College, which we now know as Auburn University. He also served as a U.S. Representative for Alabama.
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Early Life and Education
James Ferguson Dowdell was born on November 26, 1818. His birthplace was near Monticello, Georgia. He went to college at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia. He finished his studies there in 1840.
After college, James Dowdell decided to study law. He worked hard and became a lawyer in 1841. He started his law practice in Greenville, Georgia.
Moving to Alabama
In 1846, James Dowdell moved to Oak Bowery, Alabama. There, he started working in farming. He also became interested in politics.
He tried to get elected to the State House of Representatives in 1849 and 1851. However, he was not successful in those elections.
Serving in Congress
James Dowdell was a member of the Democratic Party. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He served three terms in Congress.
His time in Congress was from March 4, 1853, to March 3, 1859. He represented Alabama during this period.
Civil War Service
During the American Civil War, James Dowdell played a role in the conflict. He served as a colonel in the Confederate Army.
He led the Thirty-seventh Regiment, Alabama Volunteer Infantry. He served under General Sterling Price from 1862 until the war ended.
College President
After the Civil War, James Dowdell took on a new leadership role. From 1868 to 1870, he was the second President of East Alabama College.
Today, East Alabama College is known as Auburn University. He helped lead the college during an important time.
