Edwin Morgan

Edwin Morgan was a prominent American entrepreneur and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from New York's 25th congressional district. A member of the Republican Party, he held office for three terms between 1853 and 1859. Morgan was also known for his significant contributions to the business sector, particularly in the express mail and shipping industries, where he played a key role in the establishment of several major companies, including Wells Fargo & Company and the United States Express Company.

Early life and career

Edwin Morgan was born on May 2, 1806, in Aurora, New York, to Christopher and Nancy (Barber) Morgan. He was the eldest of their children and received his early education at the Cayuga Lake Academy. At the age of 13, Morgan began working as a clerk in his father's mercantile business, and by the time he turned 21, he had taken over the management of the enterprise. His family had a notable presence in the region, with his brother Christopher Morgan and cousin Lewis H. Morgan being prominent figures in their own right. Additionally, Edwin was related to Noyes Barber, his uncle, and Edwin Denison Morgan, who later served as governor of New York.

In his early career, Morgan established a large business focused on the buying and shipping of agricultural products. He also ventured into boatbuilding, collaborating with his brothers on various projects. The family business expanded to include extensive gypsum mining operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a starch-making facility in Oswego, New York. Morgan's entrepreneurial spirit was evident as he diversified his interests and built a successful commercial enterprise.

In addition to his business pursuits, Morgan was actively involved in the New York Militia. He served as an inspector of the 2nd Division, which encompassed units from several counties, including Cayuga, Wayne, Ontario, Yates, Tompkins, and Seneca. Under New York's militia law of 1827, he held the rank of colonel, a title that remained associated with him throughout his life, even after his military service had concluded.

Morgan's business acumen led him to become a director and the first president of Wells Fargo & Company, which was established on March 18, 1852. The company was founded by Henry Wells, a fellow resident of Aurora, to provide express mail, shipping, and banking services, particularly to California, which was experiencing a surge in population due to the Gold Rush. In 1854, Morgan further expanded his business interests by founding the United States Express Company, which aimed to offer similar services to the Southern states and connected with Wells Fargo in St. Louis, Missouri. His involvement with American Express began around this time, and he served as a director of the company until his death in 1881.

House tenure

Morgan's political career began with his first nomination for a seat in Congress in 1850, although he was narrowly defeated. He successfully secured election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1852, representing New York's 25th congressional district. He was re-elected in 1854 and again in 1856, serving a total of three terms in Congress. During his time in office, Morgan was affiliated with the Whig Party for his first two terms and then switched to the Republican Party for his final term.

His congressional service commenced on March 4, 1853, and concluded on March 3, 1859. Throughout his tenure, Morgan was actively involved in legislative matters and held the position of chairman of the Committee on Patents during the 1855-1856 session. He was also known for his involvement in a notable incident in Congress when he helped rescue fellow Congressman Charles Sumner from an assault by Preston Brooks on May 22, 1856. This event highlighted the intense political climate of the time, particularly surrounding issues related to slavery and sectional tensions.

As Morgan's congressional term progressed, he resigned from his position as president of Wells Fargo, although he continued to serve on the board of directors. He chose not to seek re-election in 1858, and his resignation from the Wells Fargo board occurred on July 20, 1858. However, he was re-elected to the board later that year following a vacancy.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House of Representatives, Morgan's legislative focus included issues pertinent to patents and intellectual property, as evidenced by his role as chairman of the Committee on Patents. His involvement in this committee indicated a commitment to fostering innovation and protecting the rights of inventors during a period of significant industrial growth in the United States.

Morgan's political career was marked by his ability to navigate the shifting political landscape of the 1850s, transitioning from the Whig Party to the Republican Party as the latter emerged as a significant force in American politics. His service in Congress coincided with a tumultuous era leading up to the Civil War, and he was an active participant in the debates and discussions that shaped the nation during this critical time.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Morgan's business background provided him with a unique perspective on economic issues, which likely influenced his approach to policymaking. His experience in the express mail and shipping industries positioned him to understand the importance of infrastructure and commerce in the growing American economy.

After leaving Congress, Morgan remained engaged in public service and community affairs. He played a role in raising and equipping regiments during the American Civil War and later became involved in educational initiatives. He served as a trustee of Cornell University from 1865 to 1874 and was a charter trustee of Wells College, where he also held the position of president of the board from 1878 until his death.

Edwin Morgan passed away on October 13, 1881, at the age of 75 in Ledyard, New York. His contributions to both the business world and American politics left a lasting impact, and he is remembered for his multifaceted career that spanned entrepreneurship, military service, and legislative leadership. His interment took place at Oak Glen Cemetery in Aurora, New York.