Smedley Darlington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Smedley Darlington
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania's 6th district |
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| In office March 4, 1887 – March 3, 1891 |
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| Preceded by | James B. Everhart |
| Succeeded by | John B. Robinson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 24, 1827 Pocopson Township, Pennsylvania |
| Died | June 24, 1899 (aged 71) West Chester, Pennsylvania |
| Resting place | Oaklands Cemetery, West Chester, Pennsylvania |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Mary Edwards Baker (m. 1851-1899, his death) |
| Children | 11 |
| Relatives | Thomas S. Butler (son-in-law) Smedley Butler (grandson) |
| Occupation | Teacher Businessman |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States Union |
| Branch/service | Pennsylvania Volunteer Emergency Militia |
| Years of service | 1861-1862 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Beaumont’s Independent Company of Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Smedley Darlington (born December 24, 1827 – died June 24, 1899) was an American politician. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives for Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district from 1887 to 1891. This means he helped make laws for the country.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Smedley Darlington was born in Pocopson Township, Pennsylvania. His birthday was December 24, 1827. His parents were Richard and Edith Darlington.
He went to local schools. He also attended the Friends’ Central School in Philadelphia. After finishing school, he taught at Friends’ Central School for several years.
While teaching, he wrote down sermons, lectures, and speeches. He would then give these notes to Philadelphia newspapers.
Starting a School
Later, Smedley Darlington started his own school. It was in Ercildoun, Pennsylvania. First, it was called Ercildoun Seminary.
Later, it became known as Darlington Seminary. For the first three years, it was a school for boys. Then, he changed it to a school for girls. Darlington Academy stayed open for 12 years.
Service in the Civil War
Smedley Darlington also served in the American Civil War. He started as a private soldier. He was later promoted to the rank of captain.
He served in Beaumont’s Independent Company of Cavalry. This was part of the Pennsylvania Volunteer Emergency Militia. He left the military with his company on September 24, 1862. In 1864, he moved to West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Business and Banking Career
After the war, Darlington became very active in business. He worked in banking and helped people invest money. He owned parts of several banks and companies.
In the 1880s, he got involved in the oil business. He had an office in Oil City, Pennsylvania. From there, he managed his oil investments.
In 1885, he started a company called the Chester County Guaranty Trust & Safe Deposit Company. He was the president of this company until 1897.
Political Career
Smedley Darlington was also active in politics. He was chosen to be a delegate (a representative) at two important meetings. These were the 1872 Liberal Republican convention and the 1896 Republican National Convention.
In 1886, he was elected to the 50th Congress. He was a Republican. He was reelected in 1888 to the 51st Congress.
Darlington served as a Representative from March 4, 1887, to March 3, 1891. He decided not to run for reelection in 1890.
Family and Legacy
Smedley Darlington passed away in West Chester on June 24, 1899. His funeral was held at his home, "Faunbrook," on June 26. He was buried at Oaklands Cemetery in West Chester.
In 1851, he married Mary Edwards Baker. They had 11 children together. Sadly, four of their children died when they were babies.
Darlington's daughter, Maud, married Thomas S. Butler. Thomas Butler also served in Congress. Maud and Thomas were the parents of a famous Marine Corps general, Smedley Darlington Butler. Smedley Darlington was also related to other Congressmen, including Edward Darlington, Isaac Darlington, and William Darlington.
Images for kids
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Darlington's house in West Chester
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Darlington's Grave at Oaklands Cemetery in West Chester, Pennsylvania
