William Heinrich Jacobs (November 26 1831 – September 11 1882) was a German‑American immigrant who became a banker, Union Army officer during the American Civil War, and a Democratic politician in Wisconsin.
Early life and immigration
Born Wilhelm Heinrich Jacobs in Holzen, then part of the Duchy of Brunswick in the German Confederation, he was the son of Christian Jacobs and Christiana Koch. Jacobs emigrated to the United States in 1850, initially settling in St. Louis, Missouri, before moving to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1851.
Banking career
In Milwaukee, Jacobs entered the financial sector, working as a court clerk before establishing the Second Ward Savings Bank in 1855. The bank later served as a community institution and its building now houses the Milwaukee County Historical Society.
Military service
During the Civil War, Jacobs volunteered for the Union Army. He was commissioned as colonel of the 26th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment—a unit composed largely of German immigrants—and served from 1862 to 1864. The regiment participated in several campaigns in the Western Theater before mustering out.
Political career
A member of the Democratic Party, Jacobs was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate representing the southern half of Milwaukee County (the 3rd district). His term spanned from January 4 1875 to January 1 1877. He succeeded Frederick W. Cotzhausen and was followed by Thomas A. Bones.
Personal life
In 1857, Jacobs married Caroline Schmidt; the couple had nine children. He was interred at Forest Home Cemetery in Milwaukee after his death on September 11 1882.
Legacy
The town of Jacobs in Ashland County, Wisconsin, is named in his honor, reflecting his influence in state affairs and local development during the late 19th century.