Silas Adams facts for kids
Silas Adams (born February 9, 1839 – died May 5, 1896) was an important lawyer and politician from Kentucky. He served in the American Civil War and later became a member of the United States Congress.
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Early Life and Education
Silas Adams was born in Pulaski County, Kentucky, on February 9, 1839. When he was two years old, his family moved to Casey County, Kentucky.
He went to Kentucky University in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, which is now known as Transylvania University. After that, he studied law at Lexington Law School. These studies helped him prepare for his future career as a lawyer.
Service in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Silas Adams joined the Union Army. He started as a first lieutenant in the First Regiment, Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry.
He showed great leadership and was promoted several times. He became a captain, then a lieutenant colonel, and finally a colonel of his regiment. He left the army on December 31, 1864.
His experiences fighting in the cavalry are written about in a book called The Wild Riders of the First Kentucky Cavalry.
Life After the War
After the Civil War, Silas Adams continued his education. In 1867, he returned to Lexington Law School. Soon after, he was allowed to practice law and began his career as a lawyer.
Political Career
Silas Adams served his community in several political roles.
- He was elected as the county attorney for two terms.
- From 1889 to 1892, he served as a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives.
- In 1892, he ran for the United States Senate as a Republican candidate, but he did not win.
However, he was later elected to the 53rd US Congress. He served in Washington D.C. from March 4, 1893, to March 3, 1895. He tried to be re-elected in 1894 as an independent candidate, but he was not successful. After that, he went back to practicing law.
Later Years and Legacy
Silas Adams passed away in Liberty, Kentucky, on May 5, 1896. He was buried in Brown Cemetery in Humphrey, Kentucky.
His family continues to honor his memory. Some of his descendants today hold an Honorary Kentucky Colonelship. His family members currently live in Kentucky and California.
