Jonah Sanford facts for kids
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Jonah Sanford (born November 30, 1790 – died December 25, 1867) was an important person in American history. He served as a U.S. Representative for the state of New York. This means he was elected by the people of New York to represent them in the United States government in Washington D.C. He helped make laws and decisions for the country.
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Early Life and Military Service
Jonah Sanford was born in Cornwall, Vermont, in 1790. He went to local schools in his area. In 1811, when he was about 21 years old, he moved to Hopkinton, New York.
Serving His Country
Sanford was a brave person who served his country.
- He joined the military as a volunteer during the War of 1812. This was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain.
- He took part in an important battle at Plattsburgh on September 11, 1814.
Local Leadership
After the war, Jonah Sanford took on many important roles in his community.
- In 1818, he became a Justice of the Peace. This was like a local judge who handled minor legal cases and public duties. He served in this role for 22 years.
- He also studied law and became a lawyer, practicing in Franklin County.
- From 1823 to 1826, he was the Town Supervisor of Hopkinton. This role is similar to a mayor for a town, overseeing its daily operations.
Military Ranks
Sanford continued his military service in the state militia, which is like a local army.
- In 1827, he became a captain of Volunteer Cavalry.
- He was promoted several times, becoming a lieutenant colonel in 1828, a colonel in 1831, and finally a brigadier general in 1832 and 1833.
Political Career
Jonah Sanford was very active in politics and government.
State Government
- He was a member of the New York State Assembly in 1829 and 1830. The State Assembly is part of the New York state government that makes laws for the state.
U.S. Congress
- Sanford was elected to the Twenty-first Congress as a Jacksonian. This was a political party that supported President Andrew Jackson.
- He served in Congress from November 3, 1830, to March 3, 1831.
Later Public Service
- After his time in Congress, he served as a judge for the court of common pleas from 1831 to 1837.
- In 1846, he was a delegate to a special meeting to update the State constitution.
- In 1856, he joined the newly formed Republican Party.
American Civil War
- During the American Civil War, Jonah Sanford played another important role. He helped create and lead the 92nd New York Volunteer Infantry. He was elected as its colonel, leading soldiers from New York in the war.
Later Life and Legacy
Jonah Sanford passed away in Hopkinton, New York, on December 25, 1867, at the age of 77. He was buried in Hopkinton Cemetery.
His son, Jonah Sanford Jr., also followed in his father's footsteps and became a member of the State Assembly in 1874.
