Lyman Bass

Lyman Bass was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from New York. A member of the Republican Party, he represented the 31st and 32nd congressional districts during his time in office. His congressional career spanned from 1873 to 1877, during which he was involved in various legislative activities and committee assignments. Following his tenure in Congress, Bass continued his legal career, eventually moving to Colorado, where he took on significant roles in the railroad industry. He was born on November 13, 1836, in Alden, New York, and passed away on May 11, 1889.

Early life and career

Lyman Kidder Bass was born in Alden, New York, where he received his early education in the common schools of the area. His academic pursuits led him to Union College in Schenectady, New York, where he graduated in 1856. Following his graduation, Bass studied law and successfully gained admission to the bar in 1858, marking the beginning of his legal career. He commenced his practice in Buffalo, New York, where he began to establish himself within the legal community.

Bass's political career began to take shape in the mid-1860s. In 1865, he ran for the position of district attorney for Erie County, New York, against Grover Cleveland, who would later become the 22nd and 24th President of the United States. Bass was narrowly elected to the position and served as district attorney from 1866 to 1871. His tenure in this role was marked by his involvement in various legal matters pertinent to the county. Although he was renominated for the position in 1871, he chose not to accept the nomination, indicating a shift in his career focus.

In 1870, Bass attempted to secure a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican candidate for the Forty-second Congress but was unsuccessful in his bid. However, his political aspirations did not wane, and he later achieved success when he was elected as a U.S. Representative for New York's 31st congressional district to the Forty-third Congress. He subsequently represented the 32nd congressional district in the Forty-fourth Congress, serving from March 4, 1873, until March 3, 1877.

House tenure

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Lyman Bass was involved in various legislative activities and committee assignments that reflected his interests and expertise. His service began in a period marked by significant political and social changes in the United States, particularly following the Civil War. As a member of the Republican Party, Bass aligned himself with the party's platform, which included support for Reconstruction efforts and economic development.

Bass's congressional tenure included notable committee assignments. He served on the House Committee on Expenditures in the War Department, where he played a role in scrutinizing the financial activities of the War Department under Secretary of War William Worth Belknap. This committee was responsible for overseeing expenditures and ensuring accountability within the department, particularly in the aftermath of the Civil War, when military spending was a critical issue.

In addition to his work on the Committee on Expenditures in the War Department, Bass was also a member of the Committee on Railways and Canals. This committee focused on issues related to transportation infrastructure, which was vital for economic growth and development during the period. Furthermore, he participated in the Joint Select Committee to Inquire into the Affairs of the District of Columbia, which addressed various matters concerning the governance and administration of the nation's capital.

In June 1874, President Ulysses S. Grant nominated Bass to the position of Assistant Secretary of the Treasury. Although he was confirmed by the Senate for this role, Bass declined the appointment, choosing instead to continue his work in Congress. His decision to decline the position may have been influenced by his commitment to his congressional duties and his ongoing legal career.

Bass's time in Congress came to an end in 1877 due to health issues. He chose not to seek renomination in 1876, indicating a recognition of his declining health and the need to focus on his well-being. His departure from Congress marked the conclusion of his formal political career, but it did not signify the end of his professional endeavors.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Lyman Bass's legislative focus was shaped by the pressing issues of his time. His involvement in the House Committee on Expenditures in the War Department highlighted his commitment to transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly in the context of military expenditures. This focus was particularly relevant in the post-Civil War era, as the nation grappled with the financial implications of the war and the need for effective oversight of government resources.

Bass's participation in the Committee on Railways and Canals underscored his interest in infrastructure development, which was crucial for the economic expansion of the United States during the late 19th century. The growth of the railroad industry was a defining feature of this period, facilitating trade and transportation across the country. Bass's work on this committee contributed to discussions and legislative efforts aimed at improving the nation's transportation networks.

In addition to his committee assignments, Bass's role in the Joint Select Committee to Inquire into the Affairs of the District of Columbia reflected his engagement with governance issues that affected the capital. This committee's work involved examining various aspects of administration and governance in Washington, D.C., an area of growing importance as the nation expanded and evolved.

After concluding his congressional service, Bass relocated to Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1877. He continued his legal career by becoming associate counsel for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad Company. His legal expertise was instrumental in a significant case against the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, which involved the right of way through the Arkansas Canon on a critical route from Denver to Leadville. Bass's successful argument in this case ultimately led to his appointment as chief counsel for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad Company and principal counsel for the Mexican National Railway.

Lyman Bass's life and career were marked by his contributions to law, politics, and infrastructure development. His legacy includes his service in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he engaged with key issues of his time, and his subsequent work in the railroad industry, which played a vital role in the economic growth of the American West. He passed away on May 11, 1889, in New York City and was interred at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, New York. His personal life included marriage to Frances Esther Metcalfe, with whom he had one child. After his death, his widow remarried, further intertwining his legacy with the political landscape of his time.