Samuel Cary

Samuel Cary was an American politician and a significant figure in the temperance movement of the 19th century. He served as a U.S. Representative for Ohio's second congressional district from 1867 to 1869 as an Independent Republican. In addition to his congressional service, Cary was known for his advocacy of prohibition and anti-slavery, and he was a prominent lecturer and author on these issues. After his time in Congress, he continued to be active in politics and public life, including a candidacy for Vice President of the United States.

Early life and career

Samuel Cary was born on February 18, 1814, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He received his early education in the public schools of Cincinnati before pursuing higher education at Miami University, where he graduated in 1835. Following his undergraduate studies, Cary attended the Cincinnati Law School, graduating in 1837. He was admitted to the bar the same year and began practicing law in Cincinnati.

Cary's legal career was marked by an early opportunity to serve as a judge on the Ohio State Supreme Court; however, he chose to decline this position to continue his law practice. In 1845, he transitioned from law to agriculture, becoming a farmer while also dedicating himself to social causes, particularly the temperance movement and the anti-slavery movement. His commitment to these issues led him to engage in public speaking and writing, where he became known for his views on prohibition and slavery.

In addition to his advocacy work, Cary was involved in political activities. He served as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1864, where he supported Abraham Lincoln's bid for a second term as President. His political career continued to develop as he took on various roles, including serving as paymaster general for the State of Ohio under Governors Bartley and Bebb. In 1865, he was appointed Collector of Internal Revenue for Ohio's first district, further solidifying his involvement in public service.

House tenure

Cary's congressional career began when he was elected to the 40th United States Congress in 1867, representing Ohio's second congressional district. He filled the vacancy left by Rutherford B. Hayes, who had resigned after being elected Governor of Ohio. Cary served in the House from November 21, 1867, until March 3, 1869. During his time in Congress, he was appointed chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor, where he focused on issues related to education and workers' rights.

Cary's voting record included a notable decision to oppose the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson, reflecting his political stance during a tumultuous period in American history. Despite his efforts and contributions, Cary was not re-elected to the Forty-first Congress in 1868, losing to his opponent, Job E. Stevenson.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his time in the House of Representatives, Cary's legislative focus was heavily influenced by his background in law and his commitment to social issues. As chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor, he played a significant role in discussions surrounding educational reform and labor rights, advocating for policies that would benefit workers and improve educational opportunities for the populace.

Cary's involvement in the temperance movement also informed his legislative priorities. He was a prominent advocate for prohibition, and his writings and speeches on the subject contributed to the growing national discourse on alcohol regulation. His commitment to the anti-slavery cause further shaped his political identity, as he sought to align his legislative actions with his moral convictions.

After leaving Congress, Cary remained active in political life. He ran for Lieutenant Governor of Ohio in 1875 but was unsuccessful. He later joined the Greenback Party and became the party's nominee for Vice President of the United States in the 1876 election, running alongside Peter Cooper, who was the presidential candidate. Their campaign, however, did not succeed, as they finished behind the Democratic candidates Samuel J. Tilden and Thomas A. Hendricks, as well as the Republican ticket led by Rutherford B. Hayes.

Cary's legacy extends beyond his political career. He was recognized for his contributions to the temperance movement, and his influence was acknowledged in various communities, including Cary, North Carolina, which was named in his honor due to his impactful temperance speeches.

In his personal life, Cary experienced significant changes. He was married twice; his first marriage was to Maria Louisa Allen in 1836, with whom he had three children. After her death in 1847, he married Lida Stillwell in 1849, and they had three additional children. Cary spent the final two decades of his life as a writer and lecturer, continuing to engage with the public on issues important to him.

Samuel Cary passed away on September 29, 1900, at the Cary Homestead in College Hill, Cincinnati, Ohio. He was interred with his family at Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati, leaving behind a legacy as a politician, advocate, and public speaker dedicated to the causes he championed throughout his life.