James T. Johnston

James Thomas Johnston (January 19, 1839 – July 19, 1904) was an American lawyer, Civil War veteran, and politician who served two terms as a U.S. representative from Indiana from 1885 to 1889.

Biography Born near Greencastle, Indiana, Johnston attended the common schools. He studied law. During the Civil War he enlisted as a private in Company C, Sixth Indiana Cavalry, in July 1862. He transferred to Company A, Eighth Tennessee Cavalry, in September 1863 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant, serving until January 1864, when he resigned. Afterwards he served as a commissary sergeant of the One Hundred and Thirty-third Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Commissioned as a lieutenant and assistant quartermaster of the One Hundred and Forty-ninth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, he was mustered out in September 1865.

He was admitted to the bar in March 1866 and commenced practice in Rockville, Indiana. He served as prosecuting attorney 1866–1868. He served as member of the State house of representatives in 1868. He served in the State senate 1874–1878.

Congress Johnston was elected as a Republican to the Forty-ninth and Fiftieth Congresses (March 4, 1885 – March 3, 1889). He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection.

Later career and death He resumed the practice of law. He was the Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, Department of Indiana, in 1893.

He died in Rockville, Indiana, July 19, 1904 and was interred in the Rockville Cemetery.