John T. Averill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John T. Averill
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| Born | March 1, 1825 |
| Died | October 3, 1889 (aged 64) |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
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Branch
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United States Army Union Army |
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Rank
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 Colonel Brevet brigadier general |
| Commands | 6th Minnesota Infantry |
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Conflicts
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American Civil War |
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John Thomas Averill (born March 1, 1825 – died October 3, 1889) was an important person in American history. He served as an officer in the United States Army during the American Civil War. After the war, he became a representative for Minnesota in the U.S. Congress.
Early Life and Education
John Averill was born in Alna, Maine, on March 1, 1825. When he was 13, his family moved to Montville, Maine. He went to school at the Maine Wesleyan Seminary and finished in 1846.
After school, he worked as a teacher for a short time. He also worked in the lumber business, cutting and selling wood. Later, he moved to Winthrop, Maine, where he ran a store for three years. In 1852, he moved to northern Pennsylvania and worked in lumber again.
In 1857, John Averill settled in Lake City, Minnesota. There, he continued to run stores and also worked in the grain business. From 1858 to 1860, he was a member of the Minnesota Senate. This meant he helped make laws for the state of Minnesota.
Military and Political Career
John Averill joined the army during the American Civil War. On August 22, 1862, he became a lieutenant colonel in the 6th Minnesota Infantry Regiment. He was promoted to colonel on November 22, 1864. He was also put in charge of military police for the Minnesota area.
He left the army on September 28, 1865. On October 18, 1865, he was given the honorary title of brevet brigadier general. This title recognized his good service.
In 1866, Averill moved to St. Paul, Minnesota. There, he started a business selling paper and office supplies. He was also part of the Republican National Committee from 1868 to 1880. This committee helps lead the Republican Party.
John Averill was elected to the U.S. Congress as a Republican. He served two terms, from March 4, 1871, to March 3, 1875. During his time in Congress, he led the Committee on Indian Affairs. This committee dealt with issues related to Native American tribes. He decided not to run for re-election in 1874.
Later Life and Legacy
After his time in Congress, John Averill went back to his business in St. Paul, Minnesota. He passed away there on October 3, 1889. He was buried at the Oakland Cemetery.
A town in Minnesota, Averill, Minnesota, was named after him.
