Legislator Details
Vital Records Information:
Marital Information:
married Mary Ann Sutton, 7/12/1872; children: Herbert Paul, Robert H., Leon S., William Wirt, Mabel, Arthur C. and one other son.
Number of Children: 7
Background
Education:
common schools
Biographical Sketch:
Son of Alfred and Eliza (Garrison) Francis. He left home at 13 to be a clerk in a country store. In September, 1861, he enlisted as a private in the 2nd Michigan Cavalry for 3 years, and served his full time, but returned home entirely blind. He lost his sight by inflammation of the eyes and maltreatment at the hands of un-
skilled army surgeons. In 1867 and 1868 he recovered his eyesight. In the spring of 1869 he commenced the study of law with Judge Pratt, at Mason, and in August, 1872, was admitted to the bar, and moved to Frankfort, Benzie county, in October, 1873. Immediately after being admitted to the bar, he was appointed as
one of the Circuit Court Commissioners of Ingham county, to fill a vacancy, and in November following was elected to the same office for the ensuing term. He served as Village Clerk of Mason for one term, and Justice of the Peace from July, 1871, until his move to Frankfort. In November, 1874, he was elected prosecuting attorney and Circuit Court Commissioner of Benzie county, though he resigned from the latter when it confilcted with his practice. In 1876, he was re-elected prosecuting attorney. He also held the office of Supervisor in Frankfort. He moved to San Diego, CA 2/2/1887. He was county clerk of San Diego Co., 1906-11. Member of the Elks, the GAR and Chamber of Commerce.
Notable Facts:
He was temporarily blinded during the Civil War.
Served in both chambers.