Background
Peffer, William Alfred was born on September 10, 1831 in Cumberland Company, Pennsylvania, United States. Son of John and Elizabeth (Souder) Peffer.
Peffer, William Alfred was born on September 10, 1831 in Cumberland Company, Pennsylvania, United States. Son of John and Elizabeth (Souder) Peffer.
Began teaching at 15, working on his father’s farm summers. Removed to Indiana, 1853, to Missouri, 1859, thence to Illinois. Engaged in farming. Enlisted as private 83d Illinois Infantry, 1862, mustered out, June 1865—rank of Lieutenant.
Acted as adjunct and judge-advocate and quartermaster.
Began law practice, Clarksville, Tennessee, August 1865. Removed to Kansas; established Fredonia Journal, and Coffeyville Journal. Member Kansas Senate, 1874.
Republican presidential elector, 1880.
Editor Kansas Farmer, 1881. United States senator, 1891-1897, elected by People's Party.
Prohibition candidate for government, 1898. Now engaged in literature work.
Member Kansas
Married Sarah Jane Barber, December 28, 1852.