Joseph Snider facts for kids
Joseph Snider (born February 14, 1827 – died January 9, 1909) was an important person in the history of West Virginia. He played a big role in helping West Virginia become its own state. He also served as a brave soldier and leader during the American Civil War. Later in his life, he helped make laws for West Virginia.
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Who Was Joseph Snider?
Joseph Snider was born in 1827. He lived during a very important time in American history. This was when the country was divided by the Civil War. Snider became known for his strong leadership. He was also known for his dedication to his home state.
Helping West Virginia Become a State
In 1861, Joseph Snider was part of the Wheeling Conventions. These were special meetings where people from western Virginia decided something big. They wanted to form a new state. This new state would be called West Virginia. It would stay loyal to the Union (the Northern states) during the Civil War. Snider was one of the people who voted for this important decision. His actions helped create the state of West Virginia.
A Leader in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Joseph Snider was a military leader. He served as a colonel. This is a high-ranking officer in the army. He first led soldiers in the 7th West Virginia Infantry. Later, he commanded the 4th West Virginia Cavalry. These units fought bravely for the Union.
Important Battles He Fought In
Colonel Snider and his soldiers fought in many major battles. These battles were very difficult and dangerous. He was part of the fighting at:
During these battles, Joseph Snider was wounded three times. This shows how bravely he fought for his beliefs.
After the War: A Politician
After the Civil War ended, Joseph Snider continued to serve his state. He became a member of the West Virginia legislature. This is the group of people who make laws for the state. He served in the legislature in 1872 and 1873. He also served again in 1875. In this role, he helped shape the new state of West Virginia.
His Family and Legacy
Joseph Snider was married twice during his life. His first wife was Margaretta Miller. They had four children together: Olive, Edith, Elisha, and Frank. After Margaretta passed away, Joseph married Laura Miller. They had one child who sadly died as an infant.
Years later, in 1999, some special letters were donated to the West Virginia State Archives. These were letters that Colonel Joseph Snider wrote during the Civil War. He wrote them to his daughter, Mary Edith. The letters were given by Ken and Connie Easley. Connie Easley is a great-granddaughter of Joseph Snider. These letters help us learn more about his life and experiences during the war. They are an important part of history.
