He was a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly for three terms, representing Green Bay and eastern Brown County during the 1869, 1871, and 1873 sessions.
[4] Due to logistical challenges in southern Illinois, the regiment was exposed to severe cold and food shortages for much of their journey.
He was a staunch Republican and was elected to three non-consecutive terms (1869, 1871, 1873) in the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing Green Bay and parts of eastern Brown County.
[8][9] Curtis was a friend and political ally to the owners of the Green Bay Gazette, and spent a year as editor of the paper in 1877.
During the 31st Wisconsin Legislature, he was appointed clerk of the Assembly committee on revision, but had to resign due to his failing health.