Joseph J. Little facts for kids
Joseph James Little was an important American who lived from 1841 to 1913. He started his career as a printer, which means he worked with printing presses to make books and newspapers. Later, he became a U.S. Representative for New York, helping to make laws for the country.
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Early Life and Education
Joseph Little was born in Bristol, England in 1841. When he was just five years old, in 1846, his family moved to the United States. They made their new home in a town called Morris, New York.
As a young boy, Joseph went to local schools. He then began learning the printing trade. He worked as an apprentice for a printer in his town. Later, he moved to New York City to finish his training in a book-printing office.
Service in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Joseph Little bravely served in the Union Army. He was a soldier from 1862 to 1864. He started as a corporal, then became a first sergeant, and finally a first lieutenant.
Political Career
Joseph Little was a member of the Democratic Party. He was elected to the 52nd Congress as a U.S. Representative for New York. He took office on November 3, 1891, and served until March 3, 1893. He decided not to run for re-election in 1892.
Besides his time in Congress, Joseph Little also helped improve education in New York City. He served as a commissioner of education. He also became the president of the New York City Board of Education.
Printing Business Success
Joseph Little started his own printing business in 1867. He began small with two partners, Mr. Rennie and another associate. They called their company Little, Rennie & Co. and started with $5,000. They worked very hard and slowly grew their business.
In 1873, a person named William Jennings Demorest joined the company. This brought them a big job: printing popular fashion papers. The business grew much larger and moved to a bigger location in 1871. In 1876, the company changed its name to J. J. Little & Co. They printed many books and magazines, employing about 500 people. Joseph Little continued to work in this printing and publishing business until he passed away.
Later Life
Joseph James Little died in New York City on February 11, 1913. He was buried in Kensico Cemetery, located in Valhalla, New York. His son, Raymond D. Little, became a well-known tennis player.
