Mark H. Dunnell facts for kids
Mark Hill Dunnell (born July 2, 1823 – died August 9, 1904) was an important American politician. He served as a member of the United States House of Representatives for Minnesota for many years. He was also a teacher, a lawyer, and a soldier.
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Mark Dunnell's Early Life and Education
Mark Dunnell was born in Buxton, Maine, in 1823. He went to college at Waterville College, which is now called Colby College, and graduated in 1849. After college, he worked as a principal at two academies in Maine for five years. An academy is like a high school.
Starting a Career in Law and Politics
Dunnell studied law and became a lawyer in 1856. He started his law practice in Portland, Maine, in 1860. Before that, he also began his political career. He was elected to the Maine House of Representatives in 1854. The next year, he served in the Maine Senate. He also worked as the state superintendent of common schools in Maine, helping to oversee public education.
Military Service and Moving to Minnesota
During the American Civil War, Mark Dunnell joined the Union Army. He became a colonel in the 5th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment in 1861. After his military service, he worked as a United States consul in Vera Cruz, Mexico, for about a year. A consul is a government official who helps citizens and promotes trade in a foreign country.
In 1865, Dunnell moved to Minnesota. He first settled in Winona, Minnesota, and then moved to Owatonna, Minnesota, in 1867.
Serving Minnesota in Government
Once in Minnesota, Mark Dunnell continued his work in public service. He became a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives in 1867. He also served as the state superintendent of public instruction for Minnesota, again focusing on education.
Representing Minnesota in Congress
Mark Dunnell was a member of the Republican Party. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives for Minnesota several times. He served from 1871 to 1883, which is six terms in a row. After a break, he was elected again and served another term from 1889 to 1891. In Congress, he helped make laws for the entire country.
Mark Dunnell's Legacy
Mark Dunnell was also one of the people who helped start Minnesota Academy in Owatonna. This was a high school for both boys and girls. Later, it was renamed Pillsbury Academy.
Mark Dunnell passed away in Owatonna in 1904. He is buried in Forest Hill Cemetery. A city in Minnesota, Dunnell, Minnesota, is named after him, honoring his contributions.
