Ela Collins

Ela Collins was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for New York's 20th congressional district from 1823 to 1825. Born on February 14, 1786, in Meriden, Connecticut, Collins had a diverse career that encompassed law, local governance, and legislative responsibilities at both state and federal levels. His political journey was marked by his involvement in significant national events, particularly the contentious presidential election of 1824, which was decided by the House of Representatives.

Early life and career

Ela Collins was born into a family with a strong military background; his father, General Oliver Collins, served in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. This heritage likely influenced Collins's early life and career choices. He received his education at Clinton Academy, where he laid the groundwork for his future profession in law. After studying law, Collins was admitted to the bar in 1807 and began practicing in Lowville, New York.

In addition to his legal career, Collins was actively involved in his community. In 1808, he became one of the original trustees of The Lowville Franklin Society, an organization dedicated to establishing and operating the first public library in Lowville. That same year, he sold land that would become the site of the Lowville Academy and served as a trustee for the school, demonstrating his commitment to education and civic engagement.

Collins married Maria Clinton, the daughter of Rev. Isaac Clinton, on July 11, 1811. The couple had eleven children, including notable figures such as Congressman William Collins and state legislator Isaac Clinton Collins. Their daughter, Harriet Anne Collins Herron, was the mother of Helen Herron Taft, who would later become the First Lady of the United States.

Collins's political career began in local governance when he served as the Town Supervisor of Lowville from 1811 to 1813. He then transitioned to state politics, serving in the New York State Assembly from 1814 to 1815. His legal expertise led to his appointment as District Attorney for the Eighth District, which included Lewis, Jefferson, and St. Lawrence Counties, from 1815 to 1818. He continued in this role for Lewis County until 1840. Collins also participated in the New York State Constitutional Convention of 1821, further solidifying his political influence in the region.

House tenure

Ela Collins was elected to the 18th United States Congress as a member of the Crawford Democratic-Republican Party, serving from March 4, 1823, to March 3, 1825. His tenure in Congress was marked by a significant national event: the presidential election of 1824. During this election, none of the candidates—John Quincy Adams, Henry Clay, Andrew Jackson, or William H. Crawford—secured a majority of electoral votes, leading to a decision by the House of Representatives.

In the House, Collins supported Crawford, while the New York delegation ultimately voted in favor of Adams. The election was contentious, and the dynamics within the House were complex, as members voted by state caucus, requiring a majority of state delegations to win. Collins's support for Crawford reflected the political divisions of the time, as the election was characterized by intense rivalry among the candidates.

Despite the challenges and controversies of the election, Collins's congressional term was relatively brief, and he did not seek re-election after his term ended in 1825. Following his departure from Congress, he returned to his legal practice and continued to engage in local politics.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in Congress, Ela Collins's legislative focus was primarily influenced by the pressing national issues of the early 1820s, particularly the presidential election and the political realignments that accompanied it. While specific details regarding the committees he served on or particular legislation he sponsored are not documented, his involvement in the House during a pivotal moment in American political history suggests that he was engaged in discussions and decisions that shaped the future of the nation.

After his congressional service, Collins shifted his political affiliation to the Anti-Masonic Party, reflecting the evolving political landscape of the time. He continued to be active in local governance, serving again as Town Supervisor from 1827 to 1828 and from 1829 to 1831. In 1830, he held the position of Chairman of the Lewis County Board of Supervisors, further demonstrating his commitment to public service.

Collins also participated in various community organizations, including the Lewis County Agricultural Society, and was involved in several business ventures, such as the Lewis County Mutual Insurance Company. His diverse activities in law, politics, and community service illustrate a multifaceted career dedicated to the development and well-being of his community.

Ela Collins passed away on November 23, 1848, in Lowville, New York. He was laid to rest at the Jackson Street Cemetery in Lowville, leaving behind a legacy of public service and community involvement. His life and career reflect the complexities of early American politics and the role of local leaders in shaping the nation’s governance.