Joseph Duncan (1794-1844) - Find a Grave Memorial

U.S. Congressman, Illinois Governor. A self taught man, during the War of 1812, he served as a First Lieutenant in the 46th Infantry, U.S. Army. After the war, he was awarded the testimonial sword by a resolution of Congress for his role in the defense of Fort Stephenson, Ohio. Moving to Illinois, he was commissioned a Brigadier General in the Illinois Militia and commanded troops during the Black Hawk War in 1831. He served as Jackson County Illinois Justice of the Peace, (1821-23), was a member of the Illinois State Senate, (1824-26) and was elected as a Jacksonian to the Twentieth Congress and to the next three succeeding Congresses, serving (1827-34). In 1834, he was elected as a Whig, the 6th Governor of Illinois, serving until 1838. While he was in office, the Internal Improvement Act was enacted, which certified a statewide public works program, construction began on the Illinois and Michigan Canal and the authorization for the City of Chicago was sanctioned. He also advocated for a public education system and for the creation of state colleges. An unsuccessful candidate for reelection, he lived in retirement until his death at age 49.

Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith