kids encyclopedia robot

William Henry Hooper facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
William Henry Hooper
William Henry Hooper.jpg
Delegate to the
U.S. House of Representatives
from Utah Territory's at-large district
In office
March 4, 1859 – March 3, 1861
Preceded by John Milton Bernhisel
Succeeded by John Milton Bernhisel
In office
March 4, 1865 – March 3, 1873
Preceded by John F. Kinney
Succeeded by George Q. Cannon
Personal details
Born (1813-12-25)December 25, 1813
Cambridge, Maryland, U.S.
Died December 30, 1882(1882-12-30) (aged 69)
Salt Lake City, Utah Territory, U.S.
Resting place Salt Lake City Cemetery
40°46′37.92″N 111°51′28.8″W / 40.7772000°N 111.858000°W / 40.7772000; -111.858000
Political party Democratic

William Henry Hooper (December 25, 1813 – December 30, 1882) was an important political leader. He served as a delegate for the Utah Territory in the United States House of Representatives. This means he represented Utah in the U.S. Congress.

Who Was William Hooper?

William Henry Hooper was born on December 25, 1813, in Cambridge, Maryland. He went to local schools when he was young. Later, he became involved in buying and selling goods. This is often called "mercantile pursuits."

Early Life and Moving West

In 1835, William Hooper moved to Illinois. He settled in a town called Galena, Illinois. There, he worked in trade along the Mississippi River. While living in Illinois, he became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

As a Mormon pioneer, Hooper moved to the Utah Territory in 1850. He made his home in Salt Lake City. This was a big move for many people at that time.

A Leader in Utah Politics

William Hooper quickly became active in Utah's government. In 1857 and 1858, he served as the secretary of the Utah Territory. This was a key role in the local government.

In 1862, he also became a member of the Utah Territorial Legislature. This group helped make laws for the territory. On October 10, 1867, Hooper joined the Council of Fifty. This was a special group within his church.

Serving in Congress

William Hooper was elected as a Democrat to the U.S. Congress. He first served from March 4, 1859, to March 3, 1861. He represented Utah Territory in the United States House of Representatives.

He tried to be reelected in 1860 but did not win that time. However, he was elected again in 1865. He then served for four more terms, from March 4, 1865, to March 3, 1873. He chose not to run for reelection in 1872.

Business and Later Life

After his time in Congress, William Hooper continued his business work. He was involved in trade and mining in Salt Lake City. From 1873 to 1877, he was the superintendent of Zion's Cooperative Mercantile Institution (ZCMI). This was a large store.

He then became the president of ZCMI from 1877 to 1882. Hooper also served as the president of the Deseret National Bank in Salt Lake City. He held this position from 1872 until he passed away.

Legacy

William Henry Hooper died on December 30, 1882, in Salt Lake City. He was buried in the Salt Lake City Cemetery. The town of Hooper, Utah is named after him.

kids search engine
William Henry Hooper Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.