William Owen Bush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Owen Bush
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William Owen Bush
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| Member of the Washington House of Representatives | |
| In office 1889–1895 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | July 4, 1832 Clay County, Missouri |
| Died | February 13, 1907 (aged 74) Olympia, Washington |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Mandana Kimsey |
| Children | George, John Shotwell, Mandana Isabella |
| Parents | George Washington Bush, Isabella James |
| Occupation | Farmer, politician |
William Owen Bush (born July 4, 1832 – died February 13, 1907) was an important American farmer and politician. He made history by becoming the first African-American to serve in the Washington House of Representatives. This happened when the state of Washington formed its first legislature in 1889.
Bush was known for his hard work and dedication. He helped create Washington State University and worked tirelessly to support farming in Washington. The Morning Olympian newspaper once called him "one of the oldest and most famous pioneers of the state of Washington." They also said that "probably no resident of the state or territory throughout its history has done more to advertise the state than W. O. Bush."
Contents
The Early Life of William Owen Bush
Growing Up in Missouri and Moving West
William Owen Bush was born in Clay County, Missouri. His father was George Bush, a respected pioneer and a veteran of the War of 1812. His mother was Isabella James. William's father was of African and European heritage, and his mother was of German descent. Both William and his father identified as African-American.
In 1844, when William was 12 years old, his family began a long journey. They traveled from Missouri to the Oregon Territory with five other families. When they arrived, they faced a challenge. The local government in Oregon had rules that prevented African-Americans from owning land.
Finding a New Home in Washington
Because of these rules, the Bush family decided to move further north. They crossed the Columbia River into what would later become the Territory of Washington. This area was still being settled at the time. There, William's father worked for the Hudson's Bay Company. Eventually, the family established a successful farm in Thurston County. This showed their strong pioneering spirit and determination.
William Owen Bush's Career and Contributions
Leading the Way in Agriculture
After his father passed away, William Owen Bush took charge of the family farm. He worked with his brothers to manage and grow the farm, increasing the family's prosperity.
In 1872, Bush helped start the Western Washington Industrial Association. This group organized events to showcase farming achievements. William served as its first president. The Bush farm became famous for its high-quality grains. Their grains won gold medals at major events like the 1876 Philadelphia World's Fair and the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. In 1893, he was chosen to represent the United States on an important council about farming and cereal production.
Making a Difference in Politics
When Washington officially became a state in 1889, William Owen Bush decided to enter politics. He ran for a seat in the Washington House of Representatives as a member of the Republican Party. He was elected, becoming a part of the state's very first legislature. This made him the first African-American to serve in the Washington legislature.
In 1890, Bush introduced and helped pass a very important law. This was the state's first civil rights act. It made sure that everyone was treated fairly in public places, like restaurants and public transportation. This law helped prevent unfair treatment based on race.
William Bush is also remembered for his role in education. He introduced the legislation that led to the creation of Washington State University. This university is still a major center for learning and research today. He was re-elected to the legislature and served until 1895, continuing to make a positive impact on his state.
William Owen Bush's Family Life
On May 26, 1859, William Bush married Mandana Smith Kimsey. She was a widow who had traveled to Oregon with her parents in 1847. They built their own farm not far from the Bush family homestead. William and Mandana had three children: George O., John Shotwell, and Mandana Isabella. Sadly, George O. Bush passed away when he was very young. Mandana, William's wife, died in 1899.
William Owen Bush passed away in 1907 in Olympia, Washington. He was laid to rest at Union Cemetery in Tumwater, Washington. His legacy as a pioneer, farmer, and groundbreaking politician continues to be remembered in Washington state.
See also
- Charles Stokes – the first African-American elected to the Washington legislature from King County, Washington
- African American officeholders from the end of the Civil War until before 1900
