John W. Fewell facts for kids

John Woodbury Fewell (born October 18, 1844 – died December 26, 1906) was an important person in Mississippi history. He was a lawyer, a politician, and a judge. He also served as an officer in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Later, he was elected to the Mississippi State Senate in 1875. He also helped write the new Mississippi Constitution in 1890.

Who Was John Woodbury Fewell?

John Woodbury Fewell was born in 1844. He lived during a time of big changes in the United States. He became a lawyer, which means he helped people with legal problems. He also worked as a judge, making decisions in court.

Fewell's Political Career

Fewell was very active in politics in Mississippi. He was elected to the Mississippi State Senate in 1875. This is a group of people who make laws for the state. He served as a state senator for Clarke County, Mississippi from 1876 to 1878.

Ideas About Voting Rights

During his time, there were many discussions about who should be allowed to vote. John Woodbury Fewell suggested some ideas about voting rights. He thought that women who owned property should be able to vote. However, his plan would not have let these women cast their own ballots directly. This idea was part of a bigger debate about voting rules in Mississippi at the time.

Fewell's Military Service

Before his political career, John Woodbury Fewell served in the Confederate Army. This was during the American Civil War. He was an officer in the army. During the war, he was captured by the Union Army. He was later exchanged, meaning he was traded for another prisoner. In another battle, he was wounded in his leg and captured again. His leg had to be amputated because of the injury.

Family Life

After the war, John Woodbury Fewell started a family. He married Olivia Gaines in 1870.