Representative Joseph Bailey

Joseph Bailey served as a Representative from Pennsylvania in the United States Congress from 1861 to 1865. A member of the Democratic Party, Joseph Bailey contributed to the legislative process during 2 terms in office.

Joseph Bailey’s service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history. As a member of the House of Representatives, Joseph Bailey participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of constituents.

Joseph Bailey (May 6, 1825 – March 21, 1867) was a civil engineer who served as a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He is credited for saving nearly 30,000 troops during the Red River campaign using his engineering skills and is only one of fifteen officers to receive a Thanks of Congress. He held various command positions in the Western Theater from June 1864 until the war’s end. After his retirement in 1865, he was elected sheriff of Vernon County, Missouri where he was shot and killed. He ultimately received a posthumous promotion to brigadier general and brevet major general for his accomplishments.