John Wilson Shaffer (July 5, 1827 – October 31, 1870) was an American politician and businessman who served as the 7th Governor of Utah Territory. Biography Born in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Shaffer was active in Republican politics in Illinois. In 1849, Shaffer settled in Freeport, Illinois and was involved in the mercantile business. Then, in 1856, he was elected sheriff of Stephenson County, Illinois. He was elected clerk and recorder for the Illinois Circuit Court for Stephenson County. Shaffer served in the 15th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War and later served as quartermaster; being brevetted brigadier general when the war ended. He was appointed governor of the territory of Utah by President Ulysses S. Grant. He was known for his strict opposition of any hint of rebellion against the federal government, which led to concerns with the Mormon population. He died suddenly during his first year as governor. Notes Further reading External links 1827 births 1870 deaths People from Lewisburg, Pennsylvania People from Freeport, Illinois Businesspeople from Illinois People of Illinois in the American Civil War Illinois Republicans Illinois sheriffs Governors of Utah Territory Utah Republicans 19th-century American politicians Union Army colonels 19th-century American businesspeople Military personnel from Pennsylvania