William H. Parker (politician) facts for kids
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William Henry Parker (born May 5, 1847 – died June 26, 1908) was an important American lawyer and politician from South Dakota. He also fought in the American Civil War. Parker worked as a special lawyer for the United States government in Colorado. Later, he became a member of the United States House of Representatives, which is part of the U.S. Congress.
Early Life and Military Service
William Henry Parker was born in Keene, New Hampshire, on May 5, 1847. He grew up there and went to school in his hometown.
When he was young, Parker joined the Union Army to fight in the American Civil War. He started as a Private, which is a basic soldier. He served in different groups, including the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry and the 14th New Hampshire Infantry.
Later in the war, Parker became an officer. He was made a Second Lieutenant and then a Brevet First Lieutenant. This means he earned a higher rank for his brave service.
Becoming a Lawyer
After the war ended, Parker decided to study law. He went to Columbian College, which is now called George Washington University. He finished his law studies and graduated in 1868.
Parker then started his career as a lawyer. In 1874, he got a special job working for the government in Colorado Territory. He was in charge of collecting federal taxes.
In 1876, he became an Assistant United States Attorney for Colorado. This meant he helped the government with legal cases. In July 1877, Parker moved to Deadwood, which was then part of Dakota Territory. He continued to work as a lawyer there.
Political Career
Parker became involved in politics in South Dakota. In 1885, he was chosen as a delegate for a special meeting. This meeting helped create the rules for South Dakota to become a state.
Parker was a member of the Republican Party. In 1889, he served in the South Dakota House of Representatives. This is where state laws are made. From 1903 to 1907, he worked as a prosecuting attorney for Lawrence County. This job meant he brought legal cases against people accused of crimes.
In 1906, William H. Parker was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He represented South Dakota in the U.S. Congress.
Later Life and Legacy
Parker served in the 60th United States Congress starting on March 4, 1907. He continued to serve until he passed away in Deadwood on June 26, 1908.
He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a famous cemetery for military members and important Americans.
William H. Parker was the grandfather of another famous person named William H. Parker. His grandson later became the Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department for many years.
