William H. Forney
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William Henry Forney (November 9, 1823 - January 16, 1894) was a U.S. Representative from Alabama. He was the grandson of Peter Forney and nephew of Daniel Munroe Forney.
Born in Lincolnton, North Carolina, Forney pursued classical studies, and was graduated from the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa in 1844. He served in the war with Mexico as a first lieutenant in the First Regiment of Alabama Volunteers. He studied law. He was admitted to the bar in 1848 and commenced practice in Jacksonville, Alabama. Trustee of the University of Alabama 1851-1860. He served as member of the State house of representatives in 1859 and 1860. During the Civil War entered the Confederate States Army in 1861 as a captain in the 10th Regiment Alabama Infantry, and was successively promoted to major, lieutenant colonel, colonel, and brigadier general. Surrendered at Appomattox Court House. He served as member of the State senate in 1865 and 1866.
Forney was elected as a Democrat to the Forty-fourth and to the eight succeeding Congresses (March 4, 1875-March 3, 1893). He served as chairman of the Committee on Expenditures in the Department of the Treasury (Forty-sixth Congress). He was not a candidate for renomination in 1892. He was appointed by President Cleveland a member of the Gettysburg Battlefield Commission and served until his death in Jacksonville, Alabama, January 16, 1894. He was interred in the City Cemetery.
