Robert Gilchrist Jr. facts for kids

Robert Gilchrist Jr. was an important lawyer and politician from New Jersey. He was born on August 21, 1825, and passed away on July 6, 1888. From 1870 to 1875, he served as the top legal officer for the state, known as the Attorney General.

Early Life and Education

Robert Gilchrist Jr. was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1825. His parents were Robert Gilchrist and Frances Vacher. His father, also named Robert Gilchrist, was a well-known person in their community. He worked as the Clerk for Hudson County for many years, from 1840 to 1865. He also served as the mayor of Jersey City between 1850 and 1852.

Young Robert Gilchrist Jr. went to private schools to get his education. He then chose to study law. In 1847, he successfully became a lawyer, joining the New Jersey Bar. This meant he was officially allowed to practice law in the state.

Political and Military Service

Robert Gilchrist Jr. was involved in both politics and the military. In 1859, he was elected to serve in the New Jersey General Assembly. This is a part of the state government that makes laws for New Jersey.

When the Civil War began, Gilchrist answered the call for soldiers. He joined the army as a Captain in the 2nd New Jersey Regiment. He served his country throughout the war, from 1861 until 1865.

After the war, in 1866, he ran for a seat in the United States House of Representatives. He was the candidate for the Democratic Party in New Jersey's Fifth District. However, he was not elected, losing to George A. Halsey from the Republican Party.

Attorney General of New Jersey

In 1869, Robert Gilchrist Jr. was chosen for a very important job. Governor Theodore Fitz Randolph nominated him to be the Attorney General. This role is like the chief lawyer for the entire state.

In January 1870, he was officially reappointed for a full five-year term. During his time as Attorney General, he continued to serve the state in other ways. In 1873, Governor Joel Parker asked him to join a special group. This group's job was to review and update the New Jersey State Constitution, which is the main set of laws for the state. Gilchrist finished his term as Attorney General in 1875.

Later Life

After his time as Attorney General, Robert Gilchrist Jr. went back to working as a private lawyer in Jersey City. He married later in his life to Fredericka Raymond Beardsley. She was a writer and wrote a book called The True Story of Hamlet and Ophelia, which was published in 1889. Robert Gilchrist Jr. passed away at his home in Jersey City in 1888.