Benjamin Thomas (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Benjamin F. Thomas
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Massachusetts's 3rd district |
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| In office June 11, 1861 – March 3, 1863 |
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| Preceded by | Charles Francis Adams Sr. |
| Succeeded by | Alexander H. Rice |
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| Born | February 12, 1813 Boston, Massachusetts |
| Died | September 27, 1883 (aged 70) Beverly Farms, Massachusetts |
| Political party | Union |
Benjamin Franklin Thomas (born February 12, 1813 – died September 27, 1878) was an important person in Massachusetts history. He served in the United States House of Representatives and was also a judge on the highest court in Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Benjamin Thomas moved to Worcester, Massachusetts with his family when he was six years old. He went to Lancaster Academy. His grandfather was Isaiah Thomas, a famous publisher. Benjamin graduated from Brown University in Rhode Island in 1830. He then studied law at Harvard Law School. In 1833, he became a lawyer and started his own law practice in Worcester.
A Life in Public Service
Benjamin Thomas held many different jobs in public service throughout his life.
Early Political Roles
In 1842, he was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, which is part of the state's government. He also worked as a commissioner for bankruptcy cases that same year. From 1844 to 1848, he was a judge for probate cases in Worcester County. In 1848, he was chosen as a presidential elector for the Whig political party. This meant he helped formally elect the president.
Serving as a Judge
From 1853 to 1859, Thomas served as a justice on the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. This is the highest court in Massachusetts. After his time as a judge, he continued to practice law in Boston.
In the U.S. Congress
In 1861, Benjamin Thomas was elected to the 37th Congress as a Unionist. He filled a spot that became open when Charles F. Adams resigned. Thomas served in Congress from June 11, 1861, to March 3, 1863. While there, he worked on important committees, including the judiciary committee, which deals with laws and courts.
Later Years and Legacy
In 1868, the governor wanted to make him the chief justice of Massachusetts, but this idea was not approved. Benjamin Thomas was also very involved with the American Antiquarian Society. He became a member in 1840 and served in many roles, including vice president, until he passed away.
Benjamin Thomas died at his home in Beverly Farms, Massachusetts on September 27, 1878. He was buried at Forest Hills Cemetery in Boston.
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