Edward Francis Blewitt facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward Francis Blewitt
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| Member of the Pennsylvania Senate from the 22nd district |
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| In office 1907–1910 |
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| Preceded by | Jacob Zern |
| Succeeded by | Walter McNichols |
| Personal details | |
| Born | January 2, 1859 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Died | May 26, 1926 (aged 67) Scranton, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Children | 4 |
| Relatives | Joe Biden (great-grandson) |
| Education | Lafayette College (BS) |
Edward Francis Blewitt was an important American engineer, businessman, and politician. He was born on January 2, 1859, and passed away on May 26, 1926. He served in the Pennsylvania State Senate, which is like a state-level parliament, representing the 22nd district from 1907 to 1910. You might know his great-grandson, Joe Biden, who is the 46th and current president of the United States.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Edward Blewitt was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. His parents, Patrick and Catherine Blewitt, had moved to America from Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland.
Edward went to Lafayette College. He was even the president of his class! In 1879, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. This means he studied how to design and build things like roads, bridges, and buildings.
Edward Blewitt's Career
Edward Blewitt had many interesting jobs throughout his life.
Engineering Work
After college, Edward worked as an engineer in the mining areas of Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. He also served as the City Engineer for Scranton, Pennsylvania. This job involved planning and managing public works for the city.
From 1883 to 1893, he was the chief engineer for the sewer and water system in Guadalajara, Mexico. Later, from 1900 to 1901, he worked as a state engineer for the State of Jalisco, Mexico.
Public Service and Politics
In 1883, Edward Blewitt was elected to serve one term as a school controller in Scranton. This role involved helping to manage the local school system.
In 1906, he was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate. He represented the 22nd district from 1907 to 1910. Edward Blewitt made history as the first Irish-Catholic person to serve in the Pennsylvania General Assembly, which is the state's law-making body.
Business Ventures
Edward Blewitt also had a business side. In 1903, he started the Edward F. Gold Mining Company. This company focused on mining for silver and gold in Montana.
Community Involvement
Edward was also involved in his community. In 1908, he helped start the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in Scranton. This is a group that celebrates Irish heritage. He was also a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, another community organization.
Family Life
Edward Blewitt married Mary Ellen Stanton in 1879. They had four children together: Gertrude, Patrick, Arthur, and Geraldine. Sadly, Mary Ellen passed away in 1887.
In 1891, Edward married Mary Ann Blackwell.
Through his daughter Geraldine, Edward Blewitt is the great-grandfather of Joe Biden, the current president of the United States.
Edward Blewitt passed away on May 26, 1926. He was buried at St. Catherine's Cemetery in Moscow, Pennsylvania.
See also
