William S. Herndon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Smith Herndon
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| U.S. Representative | |
| In office March 4, 1871 – March 3, 1875 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | November 27, 1835 Rome, Georgia |
| Died | October 11, 1903 (aged 67) Albuquerque, New Mexico |
| Resting place | Oakwood Cemetery, Tyler, Texas |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Mary Louise McKeller Herndon |
| Education | McKenzie College |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States Confederate States |
| Branch/service |  Confederate States Army |
| Rank |  Captain |
| Unit | 13th Texas Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
William Smith Herndon (born November 27, 1835 – died October 11, 1903) was an important person in American history. He served as a U.S. Representative for the state of Texas. This means he was elected by the people of Texas to represent them in the United States government.
Contents
William Herndon's Early Life and Education
William Herndon was born in Rome, Georgia, in 1835. When he was about 16 years old, in May 1852, his family moved to Wood County, Texas. He went to local schools and then attended McKenzie College. He graduated from McKenzie College in 1859.
After college, William Herndon decided to study law. He worked hard and was allowed to become a lawyer in 1860. He then started his law practice in Tyler, Texas.
Service During the Civil War
The American Civil War began in 1861. William Herndon joined the Confederate States Army that same year. He served as a soldier throughout the war. By the time he was discharged in 1865, he had earned the rank of captain.
Law Career and Public Service
After the Civil War ended, Herndon returned to Tyler, Texas. He continued his work as a lawyer. He also became an important legal advisor for several railroad companies. He helped them with their business and legal needs.
Serving in the U.S. Congress
William Herndon was a member of the Democratic Party. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives two times. He served in the Forty-second and Forty-third Congresses. His time in Congress was from March 4, 1871, to March 3, 1875.
In 1874, he tried to be re-elected for another term in the Forty-fourth Congress, but he was not successful.
Later Life and Legacy
After his time in Congress, William Herndon went back to practicing law in Tyler. He continued to work as a lawyer until his death. He passed away in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on October 11, 1903. He was buried in Oakwood Cemetery in Tyler, Texas.
