John Wales facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Wales
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| United States Senator from Delaware |
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| In office February 23, 1849 – March 3, 1851 |
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| Preceded by | John M. Clayton |
| Succeeded by | James A. Bayard Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 31, 1783 New Haven, Connecticut |
| Died | December 3, 1863 (aged 80) Wilmington, Delaware |
| Political party | Whig |
| Residences | Wilmington, Delaware |
| Alma mater | Yale College |
| Profession | Lawyer |
John Wales (born July 31, 1783 – died December 3, 1863) was an American lawyer and politician. He was from Wilmington, Delaware. Wales was a member of the Whig Party. He served as a U.S. Senator for Delaware.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John Wales was born in New Haven, Connecticut. He went to Yale College and graduated in 1801. After college, he became a lawyer. He started his law practice in New Haven. Later, he moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1815, he settled in Wilmington, Delaware.
Professional Work and Community Service
In 1814, Wales became a secretary for a group called the Society for the Promotion of American Manufacturers. This group worked to help Delaware's factories and businesses grow.
He also helped create the rules for the Savings Bank in 1832. From 1824 to 1829, he was the president of the Bank of Wilmington and Brandywine.
Political Career and Public Service
John Wales served as the Secretary of State for Delaware from 1845 to 1849. This job involves managing state records and official documents.
He was then elected as a Whig to the U.S. Senate. He filled a spot that became open when another senator, John M. Clayton, resigned. Wales started his term on February 23, 1849. He served until March 3, 1851. He tried to be re-elected but did not win.
Fighting for Freedom: Abolitionist Work
John Wales was an abolitionist. This means he believed that slavery should be ended. He represented Delaware at the First National Convention of the Abolition of Slavery. He worked alongside another famous abolitionist, Thomas Garrett.
In 1848, Thomas Garrett was put on trial. He was accused of helping a family of enslaved people escape to freedom. John Wales bravely served as Garrett's lawyer during this important trial.
Supporting Education: Founding the University of Delaware
Wales also cared a lot about education. He was one of the people who helped start Newark College in Newark, Delaware. Today, this college is known as the University of Delaware.
Later Life and Legacy
John Wales passed away in Wilmington, Delaware, on December 3, 1863. He is buried in the Wilmington and Brandywine Cemetery. His work as a lawyer, politician, and abolitionist left a lasting impact on Delaware and the nation.
Places with More Information
- Delaware Historical Society; website; 505 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801; (302) 655-7161
- University of Delaware; Library website; 181 South College Avenue, Newark, Delaware 19717; (302) 831-2965
| United States Senate | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by John M. Clayton |
United States Senator from Delaware 1849-1851 |
Succeeded by James A. Bayard Jr. |
