Abijah Gilbert facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Abijah Gilbert
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| United States Senator from Florida |
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| In office March 4, 1869 – March 4, 1875 |
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| Preceded by | Adonijah Welch |
| Succeeded by | Charles W. Jones |
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 18, 1806 Gilbertsville, New York |
| Died | November 23, 1881 (aged 75) Gilbertsville, New York |
| Political party | Republican |
Abijah Gilbert (June 18, 1806 – November 23, 1881) was an important American politician. He served as a United States Senator for the state of Florida.
Early Life and Education
Abijah Gilbert was born on June 18, 1806, in Gilbertsville, New York. This town was named after his family. He went to Gilbertsville Academy for his early education. In 1822, he started studying at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York. However, he only stayed for one year.
After college, Gilbert worked in business in New York City. He did this from 1822 until 1850. Later, in 1865, he moved to St. Augustine, Florida.
Political Career
Abijah Gilbert was a strong supporter of ending slavery. This movement was called abolitionism. He first joined the Whig Party. This was a major political party in the United States at the time.
Later, he became a member of the Republican Party. This party was also against slavery. In 1869, Gilbert was elected to represent Florida in the United States Senate. He served as a Senator from 1869 to 1875.
His time in the Senate was during a period called Reconstruction. This was when the United States was rebuilding after the Civil War. During his time as Senator, he missed about 40% of the votes.
Later Life and Death
After his term in the Senate ended in 1875, Abijah Gilbert stopped working in politics and business. He continued to live in St. Augustine, Florida, for a few more years.
Shortly before he passed away, he moved back to his hometown. He returned to Gilbertsville, New York, in 1881. Abijah Gilbert died on November 23, 1881. He was buried in Brookside Cemetery in Gilbertsville.
See also
- List of United States senators from Florida
- United States congressional delegations from Florida
