Robert B. Van Valkenburgh facts for kids
Robert Bruce Van Valkenburgh (born September 4, 1821 – died August 1, 1888) was an important person in American history. He served as a representative for New York State in the US government. He was also an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Later, he became the US Minister (like an ambassador) to Japan.
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Early Life and Politics
Robert Van Valkenburgh was born in Prattsburgh, Steuben County, New York. He went to Franklin Academy in his hometown. After his schooling, he studied law and became a lawyer. He started his law practice in Bath, New York.
Van Valkenburgh became involved in politics in New York. He was elected to the New York State Assembly, which is part of the state's government. He served in this role in 1852, 1857, and 1858. In 1858, he tried to become the Speaker of the Assembly, but he did not win.
Service During the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Robert Van Valkenburgh played a big part. He was in charge of a special center in Elmira where soldiers were recruited. He helped organize seventeen different regiments (groups of soldiers) for the Union Army.
He was elected to the United States Congress as a Republican. He served in Congress from 1861 to 1865. While in Congress, he was the leader of the Committee on Militia. This committee dealt with military matters. He also served as a colonel in the 107th New York Volunteer Infantry regiment. He led his soldiers in a major battle called the Battle of Antietam.
Diplomat in Japan
After the Civil War, Van Valkenburgh continued his public service. In 1865, he briefly worked as a commissioner for Native American affairs.
In 1866, he was chosen to be the US Minister Resident to Japan. This meant he was the main representative for the United States in Japan. He stayed in this important role until 1869. During his time in Japan, he played a key role in a conflict known as the Boshin War. He stopped a ship called the CSS Stonewall from being given to one of the fighting groups, which helped keep the peace.
Later Life and Legacy
After returning from Japan, Robert Van Valkenburgh moved to Florida. In 1874, he was appointed as a judge on the Florida Supreme Court. He served as a judge until he passed away in 1888 in Suwannee Springs, Florida. He was buried in Jacksonville.
