William George Thompson facts for kids
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William George Thompson (born January 17, 1830 – died April 2, 1911) was an important American figure. He was a brave officer in the American Civil War. Later, he became a judge and a politician. He served as a Republican Representative in the United States House for Iowa's 5th congressional district.
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William Thompson's Early Life and Career
William Thompson was born in Butler, Pennsylvania. He grew up there with his older brother, John McCandless Thompson. His brother also became a Congressman later on.
In 1853, William became a lawyer. This means he was "admitted to the bar". He then moved to Marion, Iowa.
Becoming a Lawyer and Senator
In 1854, William became the prosecuting attorney for Linn County, Iowa. This job meant he represented the government in court cases. He left this role in 1856.
He then served in the Iowa Senate, which is part of Iowa's state government. He was a state senator until 1860.
Serving in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, William joined the army. He became a major in the 20th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He fought to help keep the United States together.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, William continued his career in law. He worked as a district attorney for six years. This job was similar to his earlier role as a prosecuting attorney. He worked for Iowa's eighth judicial district.
Becoming a Judge in Idaho
In 1879, William briefly served as the Chief Justice of the Territory of Idaho. This was a very important job, as he was the top judge in that area. He held this position from January to April of that year.
Serving in Congress
In April 1879, William resigned from his judge position in Idaho. He decided to run for a seat in the United States House of Representatives. He wanted to represent Iowa's fifth district.
He won a special election to fill a spot left empty by another politician. He served most of the Forty-sixth Congress. In 1882, he was re-elected and served in the Forty-seventh Congress. However, he chose not to run for re-election in 1884.
Returning to Iowa and Later Years
After his time in Congress, William Thompson returned to Iowa. He continued to be involved in public service.
Local Government and State Legislature
He served on the Marion City Council, helping to make decisions for his local community. He also ran for the Iowa General Assembly, which is Iowa's state legislature. He served in the Iowa House of Representatives from 1885 to 1887.
Final Role as Judge
William returned to being a judge in 1894. He was elected as a judge for Iowa's eighteenth judicial district. He served in this role for many years, until 1906.
He retired to Kenwood Park, Iowa. William George Thompson passed away on April 2, 1911. He was buried at Oak Shade Cemetery in Marion.
