Walter A Burleigh

Walter Atwood Burleigh (October 25, 1820 – March 7, 1896) was an American physician, lawyer, and pioneer. Born in Waterville, Maine, he served in the Aroostook War and studied medicine in Burlington, Vermont, and New York City before practicing in Richmond, Maine. By 1852, he moved to Kittanning, Pennsylvania.

In 1861, Burleigh became an Indian agent at Greenwood, Dakota Territory (now part of the Yankton Sioux Reservation). However, he faced criticism for mistreatment of Native Americans, with reports indicating self-serving and corrupt behavior. From March 4, 1865 to March 3, 1869, he served as a Republican delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives but failed to win re-election in 1868.

Burleigh testified during President Andrew Johnson's impeachment trial on March 31, 1868. Later, he worked as a contractor and farmer in Miles City, Montana, starting in 1879, and was involved in territorial governance. He helped frame Montana's constitution in 1889 and served in the state legislature. Returning to South Dakota in 1893, he practiced law and served in the State Senate until his death in Yankton.

Burleigh County, North Dakota is named after him, reflecting his enduring legacy despite controversies surrounding his earlier career.