Walter A. Burleigh facts for kids
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Walter Atwood Burleigh (born October 25, 1820 – died March 7, 1896) was an American doctor, lawyer, and early settler. He served as a representative for the Dakota Territory. He was a "non-voting delegate," meaning he could speak and introduce ideas in the United States House of Representatives, but he could not vote on laws.
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Walter Burleigh's Early Life
Walter Burleigh was born in Waterville, Maine on October 25, 1820. When he was 19, he served in the Aroostook War in 1839. This was a disagreement over the border between Maine and Canada.
He later studied medicine in Burlington, Vermont and New York City. After finishing his studies, he started his medical practice in Richmond, Maine. In 1852, he moved to Kittanning, Pennsylvania.
Working with Native American Communities
Around 1861, Walter Burleigh became an Indian agent in Greenwood, Dakota Territory. An Indian agent was a government official. Their job was to work with Native American tribes. This area is now part of the Yankton Sioux Reservation in Charles Mix County, South Dakota.
Some members of the Yankton Sioux tribe had concerns about how Burleigh managed things. They shared their experiences with a special committee in 1865.
Burleigh's Time in Congress
Walter Burleigh was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in Congress from March 4, 1865, to March 3, 1869. He tried to be re-elected in 1868 but was not successful.
On March 31, 1868, Burleigh was asked to speak at a very important event. This was the impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson. Burleigh was called as a witness by the team trying to remove the president from office.
Later Career and Legacy
After his time in Congress, Burleigh continued to be involved in public service. In 1877, he was a member of the Dakota Territorial council. He also worked as a contractor and in farming.
In 1879, he moved to Miles City, Montana, where he practiced law. He served in the Montana Territorial council in 1887. He was also a delegate in 1889. This group helped create the constitution for the new state of Montana. He was a member of Montana's first State House of Representatives. He also worked as a prosecuting attorney for Custer County.
Walter Burleigh returned to South Dakota in 1893. He continued to practice law there. He also served in the South Dakota State Senate. He passed away in Yankton, Yankton County, South Dakota. He is buried in the Yankton Cemetery. Burleigh County, North Dakota is named in his honor.
