George H. Browne facts for kids
George Huntington Browne (January 6, 1818 – September 26, 1885) was a U.S. Representative from Rhode Island. He was a lawyer and also served as a colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
Quick facts for kids
George H. Browne
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Rhode Island's 2nd district |
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| In office March 4, 1861 – March 3, 1863 |
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| Preceded by | William Daniel Brayton |
| Succeeded by | Nathan F. Dixon II |
| Personal details | |
| Born | January 6, 1818 Glocester, Rhode Island |
| Died | September 26, 1885 (aged 67) Providence, Rhode Island |
| Resting place | Swan Point Cemetery |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Unionist |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United StatesUnion |
| Branch/service | United States Army Union Army |
| Rank |  Colonel (United States) |
| Unit | 12th Rhode Island Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Contents
Early Life and Education
George Huntington Browne was born on January 6, 1818, in Glocester, Rhode Island. He went to public schools in his hometown. Later, he attended Brown University, a well-known college, and graduated in 1840. After college, he decided to study law. He worked hard and was allowed to become a lawyer in 1843. He then started his law practice in Providence, Rhode Island.
A Career in Law and Politics
Browne quickly became involved in politics. In 1842, he was elected as a representative to the General Assembly of Rhode Island. This was the state's main law-making body. He served in the general assembly again from 1849 to 1852.
In 1852, he was chosen to be the United States district attorney for Rhode Island. This job meant he represented the U.S. government in legal cases in the state. He held this important position until 1861.
Before the American Civil War started, Browne was a delegate to important political meetings. He attended the Democratic National Conventions in 1860. He also went to the Peace Conference of 1861 in Washington, D.C. This conference tried to find ways to stop the war from happening, but it was not successful.
Serving During the Civil War
In 1861, George H. Browne was elected to the Thirty-seventh Congress. He served as a U.S. Representative from March 4, 1861, to March 3, 1863. During this time, the country was deeply divided by the Civil War.
Even while serving in Congress, Browne decided to join the military effort. On October 13, 1862, he became a colonel in the Union Army. He led the Twelfth Regiment, Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry. He served throughout the entire American Civil War.
After his time in Congress, he tried to be re-elected in 1862 but was not successful. He continued his public service in Rhode Island. He was a member of the State senate in 1872 and 1873.
Later Life and Legacy
In May 1874, George H. Browne was offered a very high position: chief justice of the supreme court of Rhode Island. However, he chose not to accept this role.
George Huntington Browne passed away in Providence, Rhode Island, on September 26, 1885. He was buried in Swan Point Cemetery. He is remembered for his service as a lawyer, a politician, and a military leader during a challenging time in American history.
