Ninian Edward Whiteside (December 25, 1812 – September 1, 1876)[1] was an American Democratic politician, attorney, and pioneer who served as the 1st Speaker of the Wisconsin State Assembly and 9th Speaker of the California State Assembly.
[2] Born in the Illinois Territory, Whiteside settled in the mining district in southern Wisconsin.
[5] While in the Wisconsin Legislature, Whiteside authored new laws regarding the renaming and restructuring of new villages and towns; renovations and repairs to the Wisconsin State Capitol; a new municipal water and well system for the capitol building;[6] local tax levy requirements;[7] establishment of the office of adjutant general of the militia of the State of Wisconsin;[8] and plaintiff liabilities.
[9] While in the California State Legislature, Whiteside authored new laws regarding incorporation of the Hornitos, California; restricting of herding of sheep to certain California county pastures; a new special tax levy for county jails; expansion of powers for the Board of Supervisors of the City and County of San Francisco and a funding bill for the City of Oakland, California.
[10] Whiteside continued to practice law as a member of the State Bar of California until his retirement.