David De Witt

David De Witt was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for New York's 14th congressional district from 1873 to 1875. A member of the Democratic Party, De Witt's political career was marked by his involvement in local and state government, as well as his contributions to legal scholarship. His life spanned significant historical events in the United States, and he engaged in various professional pursuits both before and after his time in Congress.

Early life and career

David Miller De Witt was born on November 25, 1837, in Paterson, New Jersey. He was the son of Moses Edwards De Witt and Lydia Ann Miller De Witt. His father, originally from Rosendale, New York, was a merchant who relocated to New Jersey around the early 1820s. David's family background included a mix of local New Jersey and New York heritage, with his mother hailing from Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Moses De Witt had previously been married to Margaret Salome Goetschius, with whom he had two children before marrying Lydia in 1835. David was the eldest of the children from this second marriage, which included several siblings: William Cantine, John Henry, Thomas, and Elizabeth.

In 1845, when David was about eight years old, the family moved to Brooklyn, New York. There, he attended public schools and pursued further education at a select school in Saugerties and a local academy in Kingston. His academic journey culminated in his graduation from Rutgers College in New Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1858, where he studied law. Following his graduation, De Witt was admitted to the bar in the same year and began his legal practice in Kingston, New York.

In addition to his legal career, De Witt took on educational responsibilities as the principal of New Paltz Academy, which later evolved into a state normal school, during the years 1861 and 1862. His involvement in the legal field deepened when he served as the district attorney of Ulster County from 1863 to 1870, although he was not successful in his bid for reelection during this period.

House tenure

David De Witt's political career advanced when he was elected as a Democrat to the Forty-third Congress, serving from March 4, 1873, to March 3, 1875. His election to the House of Representatives marked a significant milestone in his career, as he transitioned from local legal and educational roles to a national legislative position. During his time in Congress, De Witt participated in the legislative process, contributing to discussions and decisions that would impact his constituents and the nation.

Despite his service in Congress, De Witt did not seek renomination after his term ended. This decision marked the conclusion of his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives, and he returned to his legal practice following his congressional service. His time in Congress was characterized by a focus on the issues of the day, although specific details of his legislative contributions are not extensively documented.

Legislative focus and committees

While specific details regarding the committees on which David De Witt served during his time in Congress are not provided, it is known that he was active in legislative matters relevant to his constituents in New York. As a member of the Democratic Party, De Witt would have aligned with the party's platform during a period of significant political and social change in the United States, including issues related to Reconstruction, economic development, and civil rights.

After leaving Congress, De Witt continued to engage in various professional pursuits. He resumed his legal practice and became involved in literary endeavors, authoring several works that reflect his interests in legal history and political events. Notable among his writings are "The Judicial Murder of Mary E. Surratt," published in 1895, "The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln," released in 1898, and "The Impeachment and Trial of Andrew Johnson," published in 1903. These works indicate his continued engagement with significant historical narratives and his commitment to documenting legal and political history.

In addition to his literary contributions, De Witt held several important positions in local government. From 1878 to 1881, he served as the assistant corporation counsel for Brooklyn, New York. His involvement in local governance continued when he was elected to the New York State Assembly representing Ulster County's 2nd District in 1883. He also held the position of corporation counsel for Kingston in 1884 and served as the surrogate of Ulster County from November 20, 1885, to December 31, 1886. These roles further illustrate his commitment to public service and his active participation in the legal and political landscape of New York.

David De Witt's personal life included his marriage to Mary Antoinette MacDonald on April 10, 1867, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Mary was the daughter of Richard MacDonald, who served as the mayor of New Brunswick from 1863 to 1865. Together, they had four sons: Richard, William Cantine, David Miller Jr., and Macdonald. Each of his sons pursued various careers, with William Cantine serving as the Ulster County Clerk from 1913 to 1916 and Macdonald becoming a lawyer and instrumental in the establishment of SUNY Ulster.

David De Witt's family history is notable for its connections to public service, with his grandfather, John Charles DeWitt, having served as a New York State Assemblyman and town supervisor multiple times. His lineage also includes connections to prominent figures in New York's political history, such as Governor DeWitt Clinton.

David De Witt passed away on June 23, 1912, in Kingston, New York. He was interred in Wiltwyck Rural Cemetery in Kingston. His life and career reflect a blend of legal acumen, political involvement, and a commitment to public service, leaving a legacy in both the legal and political realms of New York.