John J. Gosper facts for kids

John Jay Gosper (born April 8, 1842 – died May 14, 1913) was an American politician and businessman. He held important government jobs, serving as the Secretary of State for Nebraska and later as the Secretary of Arizona Territory. During his time in Arizona, he often acted as the Governor because the actual Governor, John C. Frémont, was away a lot.

Early Life and Military Service

Growing Up in Ohio and Illinois

John Jay Gosper was born on April 8, 1842, near Mount Vernon, Ohio. When he was about three years old, his family moved to a farm close to Geneva, Illinois. Sadly, his father passed away in 1850. From age eleven to eighteen, John worked for a local farmer as an apprentice.

Serving in the Civil War

When the American Civil War began, John Gosper joined the 8th Illinois Cavalry. He fought in many battles over two years. Later, he became an officer, a quartermaster, for the 29th United States Colored Infantry Regiment. In this role, he helped manage supplies during the Siege of Petersburg.

On December 4, 1864, Gosper was wounded and lost his left leg. He stayed in the hospital until March 1865 and left the military two months later. After the war, he married Waitie E. Polley Graham, who had been a nurse for the Union Army.

Political Career in Nebraska

Education and Local Politics

After leaving the military, Gosper briefly returned to Illinois. He then went to Eastman Business College to further his education. Once he finished, he went back to Geneva, Illinois, where he farmed and raised hogs.

In 1870, Gosper moved to Lincoln, Nebraska. There, he became a member of the city council. By 1872, he was chosen as the president of the council.

Secretary of State of Nebraska

From January 13, 1873, to January 11, 1875, John Gosper served as the Secretary of State of Nebraska. This was a big job, helping to manage the state's official records and elections.

Service in Arizona Territory

Becoming Territorial Secretary

In 1876, Gosper visited Arizona Territory. The next year, the job of territorial secretary became open, and he applied for it. President Rutherford B. Hayes chose Gosper for the position on April 13, 1877.

He took his oath of office in Yuma, Arizona Territory on May 24. He then traveled to Tucson, arriving on May 30. There, he found out that the capital had moved to Prescott.

Acting Governor of Arizona

John Gosper served as the territorial secretary under Governors Hoyt and John C. Frémont. Governor Frémont was often away from Arizona. Because of this, Gosper spent about 75% of his five years as secretary acting as the Governor. He had to handle many important tasks for the territory.

In 1881, Gosper wrote to the Secretary of Interior. He asked that Governor Frémont either return to Arizona or resign. Gosper felt it was important for the territory to have a leader present. He also suggested that the military should handle issues with Native American tribes, believing they would be more fair than some Indian agents.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1881, John Gosper married Sarah Louise Watson. He also asked for Arizona Territory to have a fourth judicial district, arguing that the existing three were too large for the growing population.

When Chester A. Arthur became President, Gosper asked to be appointed Governor. He mentioned his military service and how much time he had spent as Acting Governor. However, he did not get the job after Frémont resigned. Instead, H.M. Van Arman was appointed.

Gosper County, Nebraska is named in his honor, recognizing his service to the state.

John Gosper passed away on May 14, 1913. After learning that the former territorial secretary had died without much money, the Arizona State Legislature approved $200 to help pay for his funeral expenses.