Thomas Davis (Rhode Island politician) facts for kids

Thomas Davis (December 18, 1806 – July 26, 1895) was an important British-American person. He was a successful manufacturer and a well-known politician. Davis was also an abolitionist, meaning he worked to end slavery. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives. He also served in the Rhode Island State Senate and the Rhode Island House of Representatives.

Early Life and Moving to America

Thomas Davis was born in Dublin, which is on the island of Ireland. At that time, all of Ireland was part of the United Kingdom. He went to private schools there.

In 1817, when he was about 11 years old, Davis moved with his family to the United States. They settled in Providence, Rhode Island. In Providence, he started a business making jewelry. He became very successful and earned a lot of money.

His Time in Politics

Thomas Davis became interested in politics. He was elected to the Rhode Island State Senate. He served there for many years, from 1845 to 1853.

Later, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. He served in the Thirty-third Congress from March 4, 1853, to March 3, 1855. While in Congress, he spoke out against the Kansas-Nebraska Act. This law allowed people in new territories to decide if they wanted slavery, which Davis strongly opposed.

After his time in Congress, he tried to be re-elected but was not successful. He then went back to his jewelry manufacturing business. However, he continued to try to return to Congress several times over the years.

Davis also served in the Rhode Island State Senate again in 1877 and 1878. He was also a member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives from 1887 to 1890.

Fighting for What's Right

Thomas Davis was a strong abolitionist. This means he believed that slavery should be ended everywhere. He also disagreed with a rule in Rhode Island that said people who became U.S. citizens (naturalized citizens) had to own land to vote. He thought this was unfair.

He was also part of the school committee for North Providence, Rhode Island. This committee helped manage the local schools. Davis was also a member of the Rhode Island Historical Society. This group works to preserve the history of Rhode Island.

Later Life and Family

Thomas Davis passed away in Providence on July 26, 1895. He was buried in Swan Point Cemetery.

In 2003, he was honored by being added to the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame. This recognizes people who have made important contributions to the state.

Davis was married twice. His first wife was Eliza Chase. After she passed away, he married Paulina Kellogg Wright Davis in 1849. Paulina was also an important figure. She was an abolitionist, like Thomas, and she also fought for women's right to vote. She was also an educator. Thomas and Paulina adopted two daughters. They remained married until Paulina's death in 1876.