Nathaniel Smithers

Nathaniel Smithers was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Delaware's at-large district during the 38th Congress. A member of the Unconditional Unionist Party, he held office from 1863 until 1865, representing Delaware during a tumultuous period in American history marked by the Civil War and Reconstruction. Smithers was born in 1818 in Dover, Delaware, and his early life and career laid the foundation for his later political involvement.

Early life and career

Nathaniel Smithers was born on October 8, 1818, in Dover, Delaware. He was the son of Nathaniel Smithers, who served as the county prothonotary, and Susan Fisher Barratt Smithers. His early education took place at Ezra Scovell's school in Dover, followed by further studies at the West Nottingham Academy, where he was under the instruction of Rev. James Magraw. Smithers pursued higher education at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, graduating in 1836. He subsequently enrolled in the law department of Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where he was part of the class of 1840. After completing his studies, he was admitted to the Delaware Bar in 1841 and began practicing law in his hometown of Dover.

In his personal life, Smithers married Mary Smithers, who was also his half-cousin. The couple had four children, but only one survived to adulthood. Mary Smithers was the sister of Enoch Joyce Smithers, a diplomat. Following the death of his first wife, Smithers married Mary Barratt Townsend, a resident of Frederica, Delaware.

Smithers' political career began within the Whig Party, though he initially declined a nomination to run for Congress in 1844. He served as the clerk of the State Legislature in 1845 and 1847, demonstrating his early engagement in public service. He was also a delegate to the Whig Convention in Philadelphia in 1848, where Millard Fillmore was nominated for the presidency. However, Smithers became disenchanted with the Whig Party due to its rejection of gradual abolition of slavery and local option votes concerning alcohol in 1847. Although he collaborated with the American Party, he did not formally join it.

House tenure

Smithers' political trajectory shifted when he became involved with the Republican Party. He was appointed Secretary of State of Delaware under Governor William Cannon, serving from January 20, 1863, until November 23, 1863. His tenure as Secretary of State was marked by significant political developments, including his election to the U.S. House of Representatives to fill a vacancy created by the death of Democrat William Temple.

Smithers was elected to the House in 1863, where he served on the Special Committee of Reconstruction. This committee was crucial during the post-Civil War period, as it dealt with the reintegration of Southern states into the Union. Smithers played a significant role in opposing the re-admission of Arkansas and Louisiana representatives, reflecting the contentious atmosphere of Reconstruction. He also supported legislation that abolished the purchase of exemptions from the draft, a measure that was particularly relevant during the Civil War.

His time in Congress was relatively brief, as he served only one term. In the 1864 election, Smithers, running as the candidate of the Union Party, was defeated by Democrat John A. Nicholson. Following his congressional tenure, he returned to private law practice, where he continued to influence Delaware's legal and political landscape.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House of Representatives, Smithers was primarily focused on issues related to Reconstruction and the aftermath of the Civil War. His involvement with the Special Committee of Reconstruction positioned him at the center of debates regarding the reintegration of Southern states and the rights of newly freed individuals. This was a critical period in American history, and Smithers' actions reflected the complexities and challenges of the time.

In addition to his legislative work, Smithers was active in party politics beyond his congressional service. He remained a prominent figure within the Delaware Republican delegation, participating in key conventions and supporting candidates for national office. Notably, he was a member of the executive committee at the Baltimore Republican Convention in 1864, although he did not endorse Andrew Johnson's nomination for vice president.

After leaving Congress, Smithers continued to mentor young lawyers, including James Pennewill, who would later serve as Chief Justice of Delaware. His influence extended into the banking sector as well, where he became president of the First National Bank in Dover. He also served on the local school board, further contributing to his community.

In recognition of his contributions to the field of law and public service, Dickinson College awarded Smithers an honorary doctorate in 1890. His legacy in Delaware politics and law continued to be felt long after his death on January 16, 1896, in Dover, where he was laid to rest in the Old Methodist or Whatcoat Cemetery.

Overall, Nathaniel Smithers' career reflects the complexities of American politics during the mid-19th century, particularly in the context of the Civil War and Reconstruction. His roles as a lawyer, politician, and community leader highlight his commitment to public service and the evolving political landscape of his time.