Ralph Plumb facts for kids

Ralph Plumb (born March 29, 1816 – died April 8, 1903) was an important American politician. He served as a U.S. Representative for the state of Illinois. This means he was elected by people in Illinois to represent them in the United States Congress.

Who Was Ralph Plumb?

Ralph Plumb was a person who held many different jobs throughout his life. He was a businessman, a lawyer, a soldier, and a politician. He lived during a very important time in American history.

Early Life and Career

Ralph Plumb was born in a town called Busti, New York, on March 29, 1816. As a young person, he went to local schools. After his schooling, he started working in business. This means he was involved in buying and selling goods.

Later, he moved to the state of Ohio. In 1855, he became a member of the Ohio State House of Representatives. This was a group of elected officials who made laws for the state of Ohio.

Ralph Plumb then decided to study law. In 1857, he passed his exams and became a lawyer. He started his law practice in Oberlin, Ohio.

Serving in the Civil War

During the Civil War, Ralph Plumb joined the Union Army. The Civil War was a big conflict in the United States from 1861 to 1865. It was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy).

Plumb served as a captain. He was also a quartermaster of Volunteers. A quartermaster is an officer who makes sure soldiers have supplies. This includes food, clothing, and equipment. He served in the army from 1861 to 1865. He was also given an honorary rank of lieutenant colonel.

Life in Illinois

After the Civil War ended, Ralph Plumb moved to Illinois in 1866. He settled in a town called Streator. In Streator, he became involved in new businesses. He worked in coal mining. He also helped build railroads. These were very important industries at the time. They helped America grow and connect different parts of the country.

Mayor of Streator

Ralph Plumb continued his public service in Illinois. He was elected as the mayor of Streator. He served as mayor from 1882 to 1885. As mayor, he was the main leader of the city. He helped make decisions for the community.

Serving in Congress

After being mayor, Ralph Plumb was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in Congress for two terms. These were the Forty-ninth and Fiftieth Congresses. His time in Congress lasted from March 4, 1885, to March 3, 1889. In Congress, he helped make laws for the entire country.

Later Years

After his time in Congress, Ralph Plumb worked in banking. He continued to live in Streator, Illinois. He passed away in Streator on April 8, 1903, at the age of 87.