John Ruan (politician) facts for kids

John Ruan (born 1813 – died May 14, 1892) was an important Irish-American pioneer and politician. He helped shape the early days of Wisconsin. John Ruan served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1855 and again in 1860.

Early Life and Moving to America

John Ruan was born in 1813 in County Mayo, Ireland. When he was 21 years old, he moved to the United States in 1834. He came with his wife, Catherine Clar. They first arrived in New York City.

After two years in New York, John and Catherine moved to Illinois in 1836. There, John worked as a foreman. A foreman is like a team leader on a construction site. He helped build the Illinois and Michigan Canal. This was a big waterway that connected important rivers.

Life and Work in Wisconsin

In 1839, John Ruan visited Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He liked the area so much that he decided to buy land there. In May 1841, he bought 160 acres of land in Milwaukee County.

Once he settled in Wisconsin, John Ruan became very involved in his community. He was a public servant and helped make decisions for the state.

Serving in the State Assembly

John Ruan was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly twice. He served in 1855 and again in 1860. The State Assembly is a group of elected people who make laws for the state. It's like a state parliament.

Other Public Roles

Besides the State Assembly, John Ruan held other important jobs. In the 1870s, he served one year as a supervisor for Oak Creek, Wisconsin. A supervisor helps manage local government.

In 1880, he was elected as the County Superintendent of Schools for Milwaukee County. This job meant he was in charge of the schools in the county. He helped make sure students got a good education.

Personal Life

John Ruan was a member of the Democratic Party. He was also a practicing Roman Catholic.