Anson McCook

Anson McCook was a prominent American military and political figure who served as a U.S. Representative for New York's 8th congressional district during the Reconstruction era. A member of the Republican Party, he held office from 1877 until 1883. Prior to his political career, McCook was a colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War, where he earned recognition for his leadership and bravery. His contributions to both military and civic life reflect a commitment to public service that spanned several decades.

Early life and career

Anson George McCook was born on October 10, 1835, in Steubenville, Ohio. He was the son of Dr. John McCook and Catherine Julia Sheldon, and he was one of five brothers, all of whom served as officers in the Union Army during the Civil War. This family, known as the "Fighting McCooks," became notable for their military service. McCook married Hettie Beatty, and together they had a daughter named Katherine McCook.

McCook's early education took place in local public schools, which laid the foundation for his later pursuits. In 1854, he traveled to California via overland train, where he spent several years engaged in mining activities primarily in California and what would later become Nevada. After returning to Ohio in 1859, he began studying law in the family law firm, Stanton & McCook, and was subsequently admitted to the bar. However, the onset of the Civil War interrupted his legal career, as he chose to enlist in the military following President Abraham Lincoln's call for volunteers.

House tenure

McCook's military service began when he enlisted in the 2nd Ohio Infantry, a regiment formed for three months. He was commissioned as a captain and participated in the First Battle of Bull Run, where he first saw combat. As the regiment was reorganized into a three-year unit, McCook re-enlisted and was promoted to major, later rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel and then colonel of the 2nd Ohio Infantry. He served with the Army of the Cumberland and participated in several significant battles, including Perryville, Stones River, Lookout Mountain, and Missionary Ridge. During the Atlanta campaign, he commanded a brigade and was recognized for his tactical leadership, particularly at the Battle of Peachtree Creek. He was mustered out of service in late 1864.

Following the war, McCook was appointed by Governor John Brough as the colonel of the newly formed 194th Ohio Infantry, which served in the Shenandoah Valley under General Philip Sheridan. He commanded a brigade effectively until his discharge in October 1865. In recognition of his military service, President Andrew Johnson nominated him for the rank of brevet brigadier general, an appointment that was confirmed by the Senate in March 1866.

After the war, McCook returned to Steubenville and resumed his legal career, being admitted to the bar in 1866. He served as the U.S. assessor of internal revenue taxes from November 1865 until May 1873. Subsequently, he relocated to New York City, where he established a law practice and became involved in politics. He also founded and edited the Daily Register, which later became known as the New York Law Journal, and served as president of the New York Law Publishing Company until his death.

In 1876, McCook was elected to the United States House of Representatives as a delegate from Lower Manhattan, representing New York's 8th congressional district. He served in the Forty-fifth Congress from 1877 until 1883. During his tenure, he was involved in various legislative activities, including serving on the House committee responsible for military affairs. McCook's congressional career concluded when he was defeated in the elections of 1882, marking the end of his time in the House.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his time in Congress, McCook's legislative focus was influenced by his military background and experiences. His service on the House committee overseeing military affairs allowed him to contribute to discussions and decisions regarding military policy and veterans' issues, reflecting his commitment to the welfare of those who served in the armed forces.

After leaving Congress, McCook continued to be active in public service. In December 1883, he was elected by the Republican Caucus as the Secretary of the United States Senate, a position he held until 1893. During his tenure, he implemented an employee merit system, which aimed to reduce patronage appointments that were common at the time. He modernized office procedures and initiated a program for preserving the Senate's historical archives, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to governance.

In addition to his role in the Senate, McCook was appointed city chamberlain of New York City by Mayor William L. Strong, serving from 1895 to 1898. He continued to manage his publishing company during this period, balancing his civic responsibilities with his professional pursuits.

Anson McCook passed away on December 30, 1917, in New York City. He was laid to rest in Union Cemetery-Beatty Park in his hometown of Steubenville, Ohio. His life and career reflect a dedication to both military service and public office, marking him as a significant figure in the political and military history of the United States during the 19th century.