Alexander Stewart

Alexander Stewart was a Scottish American immigrant, lumberman, and Republican politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Wisconsin's 9th congressional district from 1895 to 1901. Born on September 12, 1829, in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, Stewart became a prominent figure in the lumber industry and a significant political player in Wisconsin. His contributions to both business and politics left a lasting legacy in the region, including the naming of Stewart Avenue in Wausau in his honor. After completing three terms in Congress, he returned to his business interests and continued to be involved in philanthropic efforts until his death on May 24, 1912.

Early life and career

Alexander Stewart was born into a family of Scottish descent in Fredericton, New Brunswick, which was then a British colony. He grew up on his father's farm in York County, where he received a basic education typical of the time. The heavily forested environment of his upbringing introduced him to the logging industry early on, as he learned the skills of logging and timber rafting during his teenage years.

In 1849, seeking better opportunities, Stewart emigrated to the United States, where he joined his elder brother, John Stewart, in St. Charles, Illinois. The brothers soon learned of the logging prospects in Wisconsin and decided to venture north. They traveled on foot from Milwaukee to Stevens Point and then continued their journey to what is now Wausau, Wisconsin, arriving on May 4, 1849. At that time, the area was largely undeveloped and part of Portage County, which would later see the establishment of Marathon County.

Upon their arrival, Stewart and his brother began working in a sawmill, where they cut lumber harvested from the surrounding forests. Like many lumbermen of their era, they were compensated with lumber instead of cash, which they transported down the Wisconsin River to the Mississippi River and sold in St. Louis. This practice allowed them to save enough money to purchase lumber from other workers in Wausau, which they would also raft down the river for profit. Their entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of their own logging company, A. & J. Stewart Lumber Co., which thrived as they expanded their operations.

As their business grew, they formed a close relationship with Walter D. McIndoe, a local mill owner. After McIndoe's death in 1872, the Stewart brothers acquired his mill and integrated it into their business, bringing on McIndoe's nephew, Walter Alexander, as a partner. While John eventually moved to Illinois to manage a farm, Alexander remained in Wausau, overseeing the company. In 1884, the firm was re-incorporated as the Alexander Stewart Lumber Company, with Stewart as president. By the early 20th century, the company had become the largest industry in the Wisconsin River valley, with interests extending across several states and into Canada.

House tenure

Stewart's growing prominence in the lumber industry led him to become active in the Republican Party of Wisconsin. He attended the 1884 Republican National Convention as a delegate but did not pursue a political career until 1894. Initially considered as a candidate for governor, he ultimately decided to run for the U.S. House of Representatives, challenging the incumbent Democratic representative, Thomas Lynch, in Wisconsin's 9th congressional district. The district, which encompassed a significant portion of northern Wisconsin, presented a competitive political landscape.

Stewart faced notable opposition for the Republican nomination, including former lieutenant governor Sam Fifield and former state senator Merritt C. Ring. However, he successfully garnered support at county-level conventions and secured the nomination on the first ballot. In the general election, Stewart won decisively, capturing 56% of the vote against Lynch. He was re-elected in 1896 and 1898, maintaining a strong presence in Congress.

During his time in the House, Stewart was known for his support of tariffs, particularly in response to the reductions enacted by the previous Congress. He voted in favor of significant legislation, including the declaration of war against Spain, the Dingley Tariff Act, the Bankruptcy Act of 1898, and the Gold Standard Act. One of his notable achievements was advocating for the construction of a new federal building in Wausau, which served as a key development for his district.

In the spring of 1900, Stewart announced that he would not seek a fourth term in Congress, expressing a desire to refocus on his business interests. His decision marked the end of his legislative career, concluding a tenure that had significant implications for both his constituents and his business endeavors.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Alexander Stewart aligned himself with the Republican Party's priorities, particularly in matters concerning trade and economic policy. His advocacy for tariffs reflected a broader Republican agenda aimed at protecting American industries from foreign competition. Stewart's voting record indicated a commitment to party lines, supporting key legislation that shaped the economic landscape of the United States during the late 19th century.

While specific committee assignments during his tenure are not detailed, it can be inferred that Stewart's background in business and the lumber industry likely influenced his legislative focus. His experience in the economic sector would have provided valuable insights into issues related to trade, commerce, and industry, which were critical topics of discussion in Congress at the time.

Stewart's efforts to secure a federal building in Wausau exemplified his dedication to improving infrastructure and services for his constituents. This project not only benefited the local community but also reinforced the federal government's presence in the region, facilitating better access to governmental services.

After leaving Congress, Stewart returned to his business pursuits, continuing to manage the Alexander Stewart Lumber Company until his death. His legacy extended beyond his business and political career, as he contributed to philanthropic efforts through the establishment of the Alexander and Margaret Stewart Trust, which has funded significant research in cancer and pediatric diseases.

In summary, Alexander Stewart's life and career reflect the journey of an immigrant who rose from humble beginnings to become a successful businessman and a notable political figure. His contributions to the lumber industry and his service in the U.S. House of Representatives left a lasting impact on Wisconsin and its communities.