James M. Harvey (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James M. Harvey
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| United States Senator from Kansas |
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| In office February 12, 1874 – March 3, 1877 |
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| Preceded by | Robert Crozier |
| Succeeded by | Preston B. Plumb |
| 5th Governor of Kansas | |
| In office January 11, 1869 – January 13, 1873 |
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| Lieutenant | Charles Vernon Eskridge Peter Percival Elder |
| Preceded by | Nehemiah Green |
| Succeeded by | Thomas A. Osborn |
| Member of the Kansas House of Representatives | |
| In office 1865-1866 |
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| Member of the Kansas Senate | |
| In office 1867-1868 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | September 21, 1833 Monroe County, Virginia |
| Died | April 15, 1894 (aged 60) Riley County, Kansas |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Charlotte Richardson Cutter |
| Profession | civil engineer, soldier, surveyor, farmer |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1864 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | 4th Kansas Volunteer Infantry 10th Kansas Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
James Madison Harvey (September 21, 1833 – April 15, 1894) was an important American politician. He served as a U.S. Senator and was the fifth Governor of Kansas.
Early Life and Moving West
James Harvey was born on September 21, 1833, near Salt Sulphur Springs, which was then in Virginia. Today, this area is part of West Virginia. He went to school in different states, including Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa.
As a young man, James became a civil engineer. In 1859, he decided to head west. He wanted to be a prospector, searching for gold near Pike's Peak. However, he met many people who were giving up on their search.
Because of this, Harvey chose to settle in Kansas Territory instead. He bought land in Riley County, close to Fort Riley. There, he started farming. He also married Charlotte Richardson Cutter, and they had nine children together.
Service in the Civil War
From 1861 to 1864, James Harvey served in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He fought to preserve the United States. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a captain.
He was part of the 4th Kansas Infantry. This unit later joined with other soldiers to form the 10th Kansas Infantry. He also commanded the 14th Regiment of the Kansas State Militia.
Political Career
After the Civil War, James Harvey began his political career in Kansas. From 1865 to 1866, he was a member of the Kansas House of Representatives. Then, from 1867 to 1868, he served in the Kansas Senate.
His leadership skills led him to become the Governor of Kansas. He served two terms, from 1869 to 1873. As Governor, he helped lead the state during a time of growth.
In 1874, Harvey was elected as a Republican to the United States Senate. He filled a spot that became open when another senator resigned. He served in the U.S. Senate from February 12, 1874, until March 3, 1877.
Later Life and Legacy
After his time as a U.S. Senator, James Harvey continued to work for the government. He became a surveyor. This job involved mapping out land in places like New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Oklahoma.
In 1890, he returned to Kansas and went back to farming. James Madison Harvey passed away on April 15, 1894, near Junction City, Kansas. He was buried in Highland Cemetery in Junction City. Harvey County, Kansas, is named in his honor.
