Shadrach Bond

Shadrach Bond ( * November 24, 1773 in Frederick, Maryland, † April 12, 1832 in Kaskaskia, Illinois ) was an American politician ( Democratic- Republican) and from 1818 to 1822, the first Governor of the State of Illinois.

Early years and political rise

Shadrach Bond attended the schools of his home. In 1794 he came to Kaskaskia, which today is one of Illinois, but at that time was part of the Indiana Territory. There he settled as a farmer at the same time and began a political career. Between 1805 and 1808 Bond was a member of the Territorial Parliament of Indiana. In 1809 he was appointed Justice of the Peace in St. Clair County. In this district it was in 1812 also a regular judge. After the Illinois Territory was founded in 1809, he represented this 1812-1814 as a delegate in the House of Representatives of the United States. Previously, he had been a lieutenant colonel commanding the militia of this Territory from 1809 to 1812. Between 1814 and 1818 Bond managed the finances of the Land Registry Office at Kaskaskia, which was responsible for the management of almost all areas of the territory.

Governor of Illinois

In April 1818, Congress had approved the establishment of the new State of Illinois. In August of the same year a Constitution was adopted on September 19, 1818, and Bond was elected unopposed to the first governor of the state. He began his four-year term on 6 October 1818. U.S. President James Monroe signed on 3 December this year, the official document for the integration of Illinois as the 21st state of the United States. The old Illinois Territory was dissolved with it. It was the task of the new governor to establish a functioning administration under the new constitution. First, the capital was moved for 20 years after Vandalia in December 1820. The State Bank of Illinois was established and a control law was adopted. He also ran the establishment and development of a road network, especially in the area around the capital. Thus, the infrastructure of the state should be improved. Originated the plans for a channel that would connect the Illinois River with Lake Michigan in his tenure. The former constitution did not allow for direct re-election of a governor. Therefore, Bond had to leave office after the expiry of his term on December 5, 1822.

Another Journey

After his governorship Shadrach Bond to head the land allocation authority ( Land Office ) was appointed in Kaskaskia district. This office he retained until his death in April 1832. He was married to Achsah Bond, with whom he had seven children.