Nathaniel B. Eldredge facts for kids

From 1893's Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee County, Mich.

Nathaniel Buel Eldredge (born March 28, 1813 – died November 27, 1893) was an important person in Michigan's history. He had many different jobs during his life. He was a doctor, a soldier, a lawyer, and a sheriff. He also served two terms as a United States Congressman for the Democratic Party.

Nathaniel Eldredge's Life Story

Early Life and Education

Nathaniel Eldredge was born in Auburn, New York. As he grew up, he went to local schools. He later studied at Fairfield Medical College. After becoming a doctor, he started his medical practice in Commerce, Michigan.

Early Career in Michigan

Eldredge was involved in public service from a young age. In 1845, he worked as a clerk for the Michigan Senate. This role involved managing official records and paperwork. In 1848, he became a member of the Michigan State House of Representatives. He represented Lapeer County in the state government.

From 1852 to 1856, he served as a probate judge. This meant he handled legal cases related to wills and estates. He also studied law and became a lawyer in 1854.

Service in the Civil War

When the American Civil War began, Eldredge joined the Union Army. On June 19, 1861, he became a captain in Company G of the 7th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He left this role in December 1861.

He then rejoined the army with the 11th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment. On April 1, 1862, he was made a lieutenant colonel. He finished his military service with an honorable discharge on January 7, 1863.

Later Public Roles

After the war, Eldredge continued his public service. In 1874, he was elected as the sheriff of Lenawee County. A sheriff is a top law enforcement officer in a county.

Serving in Congress

In 1882, Nathaniel Eldredge was elected to the United States Congress. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He represented Michigan's 2nd congressional district in the 48th United States Congress. He won against the Republican candidate, Edward P. Allen. This victory was part of a big win for the Democratic Party after the Civil War.

Eldredge's grave in Oakwood Cemetery.

Two years later, he was re-elected to serve in the 49th United States Congress. During this time, he led the United States House Committee on Pensions. This committee handled matters related to pensions, which are payments given to people, often for military service. He served in Congress from March 4, 1883, to March 3, 1887.

Nathaniel Eldredge passed away in Adrian, Michigan. He was buried there in Oakwood Cemetery.