JACOB BEESON JACKSON was born in Parkersburg, Virginia (now West Virginia). He was admitted to the bar in 1852 and after starting a law practice became Prosecuting Attorney of Pleasants County and then Wood County. He was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates for the 1875-76 legislative session. He became Mayor of Parkersburg in 1879. He served one term as Governor, during which the issue of property tax assessment was addressed. Jackson was also well known for encouraging immigration and industrial development. He returned to his law practice after leaving the governorship.