Richard Fitzgerald

Farmer, businessman, and Minnesota state legislator

What is Richard Fitzgerald known for?

Richard Patrick Fitzgerald was a notable alumni of Albert Lea High School, in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Born on September 14, 1829, in County Tipperary, Ireland, he emigrated to the United States in 1857 and settled in Minnesota.

Fitzgerald had a multifaceted career as a politician, farmer, and businessman. Perhaps most notably, he served in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1875 to 1876, representing the 5th legislative district of Minnesota in the 17th Minnesota Legislature. During his term, Fitzgerald worked on the Rules and Joint Rules, and Towns and Counties committees. His district provided representation for Freeborn County.

Apart from politics, Fitzgerald was also a farmer and was engaged in the banking business. His life was not only confined to work, as he was married and lived in Albert Lea, Minnesota, which is also the place of his alma mater, Albert Lea High School.

Tragically, Fitzgerald lost his life in an accident while driving to his home. He was thrown from his horse-drawn wagon and suffered a fatal head concussion. He passed away at the age of 63 on November 20, 1892, and was laid to rest in the Saint Aidan Catholic Cemetery, located in Bath Township, Freeborn County, Minnesota.

Interestingly, Richard Fitzgerald's legacy in Minnesota politics continued through his family, as his great-great nephew, Tom J. Shea, also served in the Minnesota Legislature.

For more information, you can visit his official page at the Minnesota Legislature and his profile at the Political Graveyard.