The Fifth Legislative Assembly of the
Wisconsin Territory convened from January 4, 1847, to February 11, 1847, and from February 7, 1848, to March 13, 1848, in regular session. The Assembly also convened in special session from October 18, 1847, to October 27, 1847, to organize a second constitutional convention after the failure to adopt the first
Wisconsin Constitution.[1][2][3][4]
During this Assembly term, Wisconsin was attempting to achieve
statehood. A constitution was drafted at a convention in the Fall of 1846 and was put to the voters at the spring election held April 6, 1847. The voters overwhelmingly rejected this document.[5] New delegates were elected at a
special election held November 29, 1847, and a new constitution was drafted that Winter. The new constitution was approved by the voters on March 13, 1848.[6]
Major events
March 29, 1847: United States forces under General
Winfield Scott took
Veracruz after a siege.
April 6, 1847: Wisconsin Territory voters rejected the 1st Constitution of Wisconsin.
September 14, 1847: United States forces under General
Winfield Scott entered
Mexico City, marking the end of organized Mexican resistance.
December 15, 1847 – February 1, 1848: The second Wisconsin constitutional convention was held in
Madison, Wisconsin Territory.[1]
May 29, 1848: Wisconsin was admitted to the
United States as the 30th U.S. state.
Major legislation
January 14, 1847: An Act to incorporate the
Lawrence Institute of Wisconsin.[2]: 5–8
February 4, 1847: An Act to incorporate the
Nashotah House.[2]: 53–55
October 27, 1847: An Act in relation to the formation of a State Government in Wisconsin, and to change the time for holding the annual session of the Legislature.[3]: 3–11
Sessions
1st session: January 4, 1847 – February 11, 1847
Special session: October 18, 1847 – October 27, 1847