Josiah Given facts for kids
Josiah Given (born August 31, 1828 – died February 3, 1908) was an important judge. He served on the Iowa Supreme Court, which is the highest court in Iowa. He was a judge there from 1889 to 1901. Before becoming a judge, he was a brave soldier. He fought as a colonel in the American Civil War. He led the 74th Ohio Infantry Regiment.
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Early Life and Military Service
Josiah Given was born in Murrysville, Pennsylvania in 1828. His parents, John and Jane Given, came from Ireland. When he was about 10 years old, his family moved to Holmes County, Ohio.
In 1847, when he was 19, Josiah joined the army. He served in the Mexican–American War. After the war, he went back to Ohio. He studied law with his older brother, William. In 1850, he became a lawyer. He married Elizabeth Armor in 1851. By 1856, he had his own law office in Coshocton, Ohio.
Fighting in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Josiah Given joined the army again. He was a captain in the 24th Ohio Infantry. Later, he became a lieutenant colonel in the 18th Ohio Infantry. Finally, he became a colonel, leading the 74th Ohio Infantry. He fought in 22 battles during the war. He was a very experienced soldier.
Life After the War
After the Civil War, Josiah Given worked in Washington, D.C. He was the Postmaster of the United States House of Representatives. This means he managed the mail for the House of Representatives. He was helped by James A. Garfield, who later became president.
Moving to Iowa and Becoming a Judge
After his time in Washington, Josiah Given moved to Des Moines, Iowa. He continued to work as a lawyer. He held several important legal jobs in Iowa. He was a District Attorney for Polk County. This job involves representing the government in court cases. He also served as a circuit judge and a district judge.
His most important role was as a Justice of the Iowa Supreme Court. He served on this high court for many years.
Later Life
Josiah Given passed away in Des Moines, Iowa, on February 3, 1908. He was buried in Woodland Cemetery.
