Joseph Lyman facts for kids
Joseph Lyman (born September 13, 1840 – died July 9, 1890) was an important person in American history. He was a brave soldier during the Civil War. Later, he became a lawyer and a judge. In the 1880s, he served two terms as a U.S. Representative for Iowa's 9th congressional district. He was a member of the Republican Party. This means he helped make laws for the country.
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Early Life and Education
Joseph Lyman was born on September 13, 1840. His birthplace was Lyons, Michigan, in Ionia County. He went to common schools in Ohio. These were like public schools today.
In 1857, when he was about 17, he moved to Iowa. He settled in a place called Big Grove. This town was later renamed Oakland. After moving, he continued his education. He attended Iowa College, which is now known as Grinnell College, in Grinnell, Iowa.
Service in the Civil War
When the Civil War began in 1861, Joseph Lyman joined the Union Army. He wanted to help his country.
Early Military Service
Lyman first served in Company E. This was part of the 4th Regiment Iowa Volunteer Cavalry. He was a brave soldier.
Role as an Adjutant
Later, he became an adjutant. This is an officer who helps a commanding officer. He served with the 29th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment. This was from October 19, 1862, to February 21, 1865. In 1864, he worked for Brig. Gen. Samuel Allen Rice. He was an aide de camp and Inspector General on his staff.
Major and Assistant Adjutant General
Joseph Lyman became a major in the same regiment. He also worked for Maj. Gen. Frederick Steele. He was an aide de camp and acting assistant adjutant general. This service lasted from February 21, 1865, to August 10, 1865.
Career as a Lawyer and Judge
After the Civil War ended, Joseph Lyman decided to study law. He wanted to become a lawyer.
Starting His Legal Career
In 1866, he passed his exams and became a lawyer. He started his law practice in Council Bluffs, Iowa. From 1867 to 1870, he also worked for the government. He was a deputy collector of internal revenue. This job involved collecting taxes.
Becoming a Judge
Later in his career, Joseph Lyman became a judge. In 1884, he was appointed to the circuit court. As a judge, he made important decisions in legal cases.
Political Career in Congress
In 1884, Joseph Lyman decided to enter politics. He was a member of the Republican Party.
Election to Congress
He was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He represented Iowa's 9th congressional district. This meant he spoke for the people of that area in Congress. He served in the Forty-ninth U.S. Congress.
Second Term and Retirement
Two years later, in 1886, he was re-elected. He served a second term in the Fiftieth U.S. Congress. However, he chose not to run for re-election in 1888. In total, he served in Congress from March 4, 1885, to March 3, 1889.
Later Life and Death
After leaving Congress, Joseph Lyman went back to being a lawyer. He continued his law practice in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Sadly, he became sick for a long time. He died on July 9, 1890, from paralysis. He was buried in Fairview Cemetery.