Robert T. Van Horn facts for kids
Robert Thompson Van Horn (born May 19, 1824 – died January 3, 1916) was an important person in Kansas City, Missouri. He was a lawyer, owned a newspaper, and served as mayor of Kansas City during the American Civil War. He was also a member of the Missouri state government and later represented Missouri in the United States Congress.
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Robert Van Horn's Life
Robert Van Horn was born in a place called East Mahoning Township, Pennsylvania. His parents were Henry and Elizabeth Vanhorn. In 1844, he moved to Pomeroy, Ohio. There, he studied law and became a lawyer around 1850.
Moving to Kansas City
In 1855, Robert Van Horn moved to Kansas City. He quickly became involved in the city's life. In 1857, he was a member of the city council. From 1857 to 1861, he worked as the postmaster for Kansas City, which meant he was in charge of the mail.
He also bought a newspaper called The Enterprise in 1856. He changed its name to The Kansas City Journal. This newspaper was printed every day starting in 1858 and continued until 1942.
Serving as Mayor
Robert Van Horn was elected mayor of Kansas City three times. He served as mayor in 1861, 1863, and 1864. These were important years because the American Civil War was happening.
During the Civil War
During the Civil War, Robert Van Horn joined the Union Army. He became a leader, serving as a lieutenant colonel in the Missouri Volunteer Infantry. This means he helped lead soldiers from Missouri who fought for the Union.
He also served in the Missouri State Senate from 1862 to 1864. This was while he was still involved with the war effort.
In the United States Congress
Robert Van Horn was a member of the Republican Party. He was elected to the United States Congress three times in a row, serving from March 4, 1865, to March 3, 1871.
He later returned to Congress, serving again from March 4, 1881, to March 3, 1883. He also won another election to Congress in 1896, serving from February 27, 1896, to March 3, 1897.
Later Years and Legacy
Robert Van Horn was very active in the Republican Party. He attended many important national meetings for the party in 1864, 1868, 1872, 1876, 1880, and 1884. He was also part of the national leadership for the Republican Party in 1872 and 1884.
He stopped working as the editor of The Kansas City Journal in 1897. Robert Van Horn passed away on January 3, 1916, at his home near Kansas City. He was buried in Mount Washington Cemetery in Kansas City.
Today, Van Horn High School in Independence, Missouri, is built on the land where his home, called "Honeywood," once stood. Also, a major road in Kansas City, Truman Road, was originally named Van Horn Road in his honor.
