William Howard (congressman) facts for kids

William Howard was an important person in American history. He was a soldier in the United States Army, a lawyer, and even served in the United States House of Representatives for Ohio. He lived from 1817 to 1891.

William Howard's Early Life and Learning

William Howard was born on December 31, 1817, in a place called Jefferson County, Virginia. He went to public schools when he was young. Later, he decided to study law. In 1840, he passed his exams and was allowed to practice law. This meant he could work as a lawyer and help people with legal problems.

Serving in the Military and Government

Howard later moved to Batavia, Ohio. From 1845 to 1849, he worked as a prosecuting attorney. This job meant he was a lawyer who worked for the government to bring cases against people accused of crimes.

He also served as a soldier in the Mexican–American War. This war happened between the United States and Mexico. During the war, he became a second lieutenant in the Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

After the war, William Howard continued to serve his community. He was a member of the Ohio Senate from 1849 to 1852. The Ohio Senate is part of the state government that makes laws for Ohio.

Time in the U.S. Congress

In 1859, William Howard was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served in the Thirty-sixth Congress, which lasted from March 4, 1859, to March 3, 1861. He decided not to run for re-election after his first term.

Returning to Military Service

When the American Civil War began, William Howard joined the army again. The Civil War was a big conflict in the United States. On August 11, 1861, he became a major in the 59th Ohio Infantry.

He was later promoted to lieutenant colonel. He even led his regiment, which is a group of soldiers, in a major battle called the Battle of Stones River. On February 24, 1863, he left the army. He went back home to continue his work as a lawyer.

Later Years and Passing

William Howard kept working as a lawyer until he passed away. He died in Batavia, Ohio, on June 1, 1891, when he was 73 years old. He was buried in the Batavia Union Cemetery.