Stephen Downey

Stephen Downey was a prominent lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Wyoming's at-large congressional district. A member of the Republican Party, Downey's congressional tenure lasted from 1879 to 1881. He was born on July 25, 1839, and played a significant role in the early political landscape of Wyoming, contributing to various local and state offices after his time in Congress. His legacy includes involvement in the establishment of the University of Wyoming and a commitment to public service that spanned several decades.

Early life and career

Stephen Downey was born in Westernport, Maryland, to Owen Dorsey Downey and Elizabeth L. (Powell) Downey. His early education took place in his hometown, where he laid the groundwork for a career in law. Downey pursued legal studies under the guidance of Francis Thomas in Cumberland, Maryland, which prepared him for his future profession as an attorney.

In 1861, as the American Civil War escalated, Downey enlisted in the Union Army. He joined the 3rd Maryland Infantry Regiment, Potomac Home Brigade, initially serving as a private. His military career progressed rapidly; he was promoted to first lieutenant in January 1862, lieutenant colonel in March 1862, and ultimately to colonel by September 1862. During the war, he commanded Union troops in various engagements, including a significant post in Romney, Virginia. Downey's military service included notable encounters, such as a skirmish with Confederate forces led by Stonewall Jackson. However, his service came to an end when he was wounded and subsequently captured at the Battle of Harpers Ferry in September 1862. Downey was discharged from the army in November of that year due to his injuries.

Following his military service, Downey returned to civilian life and gained admission to the bar, establishing a law practice in Washington, D.C. In 1869, he moved to the Wyoming Territory, where he continued his legal career in Laramie. His early political involvement included serving as the prosecuting attorney for Albany County from 1869 to 1870. Downey also opened a survey office in Laramie and was involved in several government survey contracts between 1870 and 1873. His political career in Wyoming began to take shape as he served in the Wyoming Territorial Council during multiple sessions and held the positions of territorial treasurer and auditor.

House tenure

In 1878, Stephen Downey was elected as Wyoming's Delegate to the United States House of Representatives, a position he held from March 4, 1879, until March 3, 1881. His term marked a significant period in Wyoming's political history, as he was one of the early representatives from the territory. During his time in Congress, Downey gained attention for his proposal to declare the United States as "a Christian people," which included a request for a substantial appropriation to fund Christian-themed artwork in federal buildings. This proposal garnered national media coverage, particularly due to the unique nature of his legislative approach, which included a lengthy prose poem that he sought to have printed in the congressional record. However, the House ultimately voted against allowing the inclusion of his poem due to copyright concerns.

Downey did not seek re-election in 1880, concluding his single term in Congress. His time in the House was characterized by a focus on issues relevant to the newly emerging state of Wyoming, reflecting the interests and values of his constituents during a formative period in the region's history.

Legislative focus and committees

After his congressional tenure, Stephen Downey returned to Laramie, where he resumed his law practice. His commitment to public service continued as he took on various roles in local and state government. Downey was a member of the territorial House of Representatives in 1886 and 1890, and he participated in the state constitutional convention in 1889. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the University of Wyoming, sponsoring the legislation that created the institution and earning the title of "The Father of the University of Wyoming." His dedication to education was further demonstrated through his service as a trustee of the university from 1891 to 1897, during which he held the position of president of the board of trustees for an extended period.

Wyoming achieved statehood in 1890, and Downey continued to serve in the Wyoming House of Representatives in the early 1890s. His leadership included serving as chair of the Judiciary Committee and as Speaker pro tempore. From 1897 until his death, he held the position of prosecuting attorney for Albany County, further solidifying his influence in the legal and political spheres of Wyoming.

Stephen Downey passed away on August 3, 1902, in Denver, Colorado. His contributions to Wyoming's legal and educational institutions, as well as his service in the military and government, left a lasting impact on the state. He was interred at Greenhill Cemetery in Laramie, where his legacy continues to be remembered. Downey's family included two daughters from his first marriage and ten children from his second marriage, with notable descendants who pursued careers in law and academia. The Downey Family Papers, which document his life and career, are preserved at the University of Wyoming's American Heritage Center Archives.