W. T. BURGESS - History

BURGESS, DOWNS

Posted By: Joey Stark - Jefferson Co. Volunteer
Date: 5/14/2006 at 20:43:31

"1879 History of Jefferson County", Page 503

BURGESS, W. T., P.M. (Postmaster) Fairfield; born Nov. 25, 1837, in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. His father W. P. BURGESS died in 1846 and left him entirely on his own efforts; he acquired a good common school education, learned the tin and copper smith trade; during this time he studied law and soon after was admitted to the bar; removed to Bloomfield, Iowa, in 1860; in 1861, was admitted to practice in this State; moved to Brighton the same year, and was engaged in recruiting for the army; In July, 1862, organized Co. E, 30th I.V.I., and was commissioned Captain; was engaged with his regiment in the battles at Haines' Bluff, Vicksburg, Fort Hindman and Grenada; in 1863 was confined in hospital at Memphis for several months with heart disease and pneumonia; was finally compelled to resign and return home. The following winter removed to Fairfield and engaged in merchandising. Has served three years as member of the Board of Supervisors in his county, and chairman one year; was Overseer of the County Farm during the same time; in 1873 and 1874, was Clerk of the Committee on Railways and Canals, House of Representatives, Washington, D.C., received his appointment as Postmaster at Fairfield in January, 1875; took charge of the office April following; in the spring of 1878 was chosen as a member of the School Board for the term of three years. His marriage with Kate DOWNS occurred at Brighton July 4, 1862; has two interesting children -- George L. and Nellie P.; lost one child.

[Also posted to the Jefferson and Washington Counties' Documents boards]

*Transcribed for genealogy purposes; I have no relation to the person(s) mentioned.