Henry Wirtz Thomas


Henry Wirtz Thomas, a Republican politician, served as the 12th Lieutenant Governor of Virginia from 1875 to 1878 under Governor James L. Kemper.

Early life and education

Henry W. Thomas was born in Leesburg, Virginia in 1812. He attended college in District of Columbia. He studied law and became a lawyer. In 1833, he moved to Fairfax Court House. He was commissioned a Major in the Virginia Militia in 1837.

Politics

At the age of 26, he was elected Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney in 1838. He was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 1841–42 and again from 1847–48. He continued his legislative service to the Commonwealth in the Senate of Virginia, serving from 1850–63 and from 1871–75. In 1875, he was elected Lt. Governor. He also served as a Judge on the Fairfax County Circuit Court from 1866 until shortly before his death.

Death

Thomas died at his home in Fairfax on June 23, 1890. He is buried in Fairfax City Cemetery in Fairfax.