Thomas H. Herndon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Hord Herndon
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Alabama's 1st district |
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| In office March 4, 1879 – March 28, 1883 |
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| Preceded by | James T. Jones |
| Succeeded by | James T. Jones |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 1, 1828 Erie, Greene County (present day Hale County), Alabama, U.S. |
| Died | March 28, 1883 (aged 54) Mobile, Alabama, U.S. |
| Resting place | Magnolia Cemetery |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Alma mater | Harvard University |
Thomas Hord Herndon (July 1, 1828 – March 28, 1883) was an important person from Alabama. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he helped make laws for the country. He was also an officer in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Thomas Hord Herndon was born on July 1, 1828. His birthplace was Erie, in what is now Hale County, Alabama. His parents were Thomas Hord Herndon, Sr., and Sarah Emma Toulmin Herndon. His mother's father was a federal judge named Harry Toulmin.
Thomas went to a private school when he was young. Later, he graduated from the University of Alabama in 1847. He then studied law at Harvard University in 1848.
Becoming a Lawyer
In 1849, Thomas Herndon became a lawyer in Alabama. He started his law practice in a town called Eutaw, Alabama. For a short time in 1850, he also worked as the editor for a newspaper called the Eutaw Democrat.
Moving to Mobile and Public Service
In 1853, Thomas Herndon moved to Mobile, Alabama. There, he continued to work as a lawyer. He also began to serve in public office.
Serving in the State Government
From 1857 to 1858, Herndon was a member of the State house of representatives. This group helps make laws for the state of Alabama. In 1858, he also became a trustee for the University of Alabama. This meant he helped guide the university.
In 1859, he moved back to Greene County. In 1861, he was part of the State secession convention. This was a meeting where Alabama decided to leave the United States.
Military Service in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Thomas Herndon joined the Confederate States Army. He started as a Major in the 36th Regiment Alabama Infantry. By the end of the war, he had become the Colonel of his regiment. He was wounded twice while fighting in battles.
Post-War Career and Politics
After the Civil War ended, Thomas Herndon returned to Mobile. He started practicing law again.
Running for Governor
In 1872, he ran for Governor of Alabama as a Democrat. However, he did not win that election.
More State Service
Even though he didn't become governor, Herndon continued to serve Alabama. In 1875, he was elected to the State constitutional convention. This group helped write a new constitution for Alabama. He also served again in the State house of representatives in 1876 and 1877.
Serving in Congress
Thomas Herndon was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He served in the Forty-sixth and Forty-seventh Congresses. He began his service on March 4, 1879. He was also elected to the Forty-eighth Congress. However, he passed away on March 28, 1883, in Mobile, Alabama, before that Congress officially started.
He was buried in Magnolia Cemetery.
