Alton Rufus Easton (1807-1893) - Find a Grave Memorial

Namesake of Alton, Illinois. He was the son of Judge Rufus Easton, a pioneer settler of the Missouri Territory. Being a proud father, he named the city of Alton, Illinois in honor of his first-born son. He studied medicine in St. Louis after graduating from West Point Military Academy. For several years he was captain of the noted military company of St. Louis known as the St. Louis Grays. Later he became colonel of the St. Louis Legion and commanded this regiment in the early part of the Mexican War. When the Territory of New Mexico was organized, President Fillmore offered Easton the secretaryship of the Territory, but he declined the honor. He was appointed Assistant Treasurer of the U.S., and was in charge of the subtreasury at St. Louis. From 1860 until 1864 he was a member of the county court and was Inspector-General of Missouri from 1861 to 1864. In 1873 he was appointed assessor of internal revenue by President Grant and held that office until it was legislated out of existence. Grant then appointed Easton pension agent, an office he held until 1877. For many years he was prominently identified with the business interests of St. Louis and was one of the earliest promoters of street railway enterprises in that city.

Bio by: Connie Nisinger