Paul Juneau facts for kids

Paul Juneau (born April 29, 1822 – died August 13, 1858) was a businessman from Theresa, Wisconsin. He was also a politician who served two terms in the Wisconsin State Assembly, which is like the state's law-making group. He was a member of the Democratic Party and represented Dodge County.

Early Life and Family Connections

Paul Juneau was born on April 29, 1822, in a log cabin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His father was Solomon Juneau, a French-Canadian fur trader who helped start Milwaukee and was its first mayor. His mother, Josette, was a member of the Menominee nation. Paul was considered a mixed-blood member of the Menominee tribe.

He went to school in Milwaukee and later in Detroit, Michigan. Paul helped his father with the fur trade. He was good at languages and could speak Menominee, English, and French, which made him a great interpreter.

Community Involvement

Paul Juneau was active in his community from a young age. In 1843, he helped organize Milwaukee's first St. Patrick's Day parade. His father was the "Head Marshal" for the event.

In 1844, his father appointed him as a deputy registrar of deeds for Milwaukee. This job involved keeping official records. Paul was also a notary public, meaning he could legally witness signatures on documents. He even advertised that he could always be found at the Register of Deeds office.

Paul was elected as a second lieutenant in the City Guards militia of Milwaukee in September 1844.

Moving to Theresa

In late 1844, Paul's family moved to Dodge County. His father founded a village there called Theresa, named after his own mother. Even after moving, Paul and his father still took part in political meetings in Milwaukee until 1847. By November 1847, Paul was appointed as a notary for Dodge County.

Public Service and Elections

The first election in the Township of Theresa happened on April 4, 1848. It was held at the home of Paul's brother, Narcisse M. Juneau. Paul was elected as one of the three supervisors, which is similar to a city council member today.

In August 1848, Paul Juneau became the postmaster for the village of Theresa. This meant he was in charge of the local post office. However, he resigned the next year, and his brother Narcisse took over the role.

Serving in the Assembly

Paul Juneau was first elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1848 for the 1849 session. At that time, he worked as a land agent, helping people buy and sell land. His district included the towns of Burnett, Chester, LeRoy, and Williamstown.

In 1850, he ran for County Register of Deeds as an independent candidate, even though he had attended the state Democratic convention.

In 1854, Juneau was elected county register of deeds, taking over from his brother Narcisse. He was elected to the Assembly again in 1858 as a Democrat. He represented the 3rd Dodge County district, which included the Towns of Rubicon, Hustisford, and Oak Grove. He was assigned to the committee that handled privileges and elections. His brother Narcisse was also elected to represent a nearby district in the same election. Narcisse lived in the town of Juneau, which had been renamed in honor of Paul Juneau.

Paul Juneau's Death

In August 1858, Paul Juneau died from an accidental shooting during a pistol target practice session near the courthouse in Juneau. He passed away on August 13, 1858. Another politician, Waldo Lyon, took his place in the Assembly for the 1859 session.