Hiester Clymer

Hiester Clymer was a U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania who served in the House of Representatives from 1873 to 1881. A member of the Democratic Party, Clymer was part of a prominent political family and was known for his involvement in various political activities throughout his career. His tenure in Congress was marked by his role in investigating the War Department under Secretary William W. Belknap, as well as his participation in several congressional committees. Clymer's political career was preceded by his education in law and his service in the Pennsylvania State Senate.

Early life and career

Hiester Clymer was born on November 3, 1827, near Morgantown, Pennsylvania. He pursued higher education at Princeton University, where he laid the groundwork for his future career in law and politics. After completing his studies, Clymer was admitted to the bar in 1849, marking the beginning of his legal career. He practiced law in Berks County and Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, where he developed a reputation in the legal community.

Clymer's family background played a significant role in his political aspirations. He was part of the Hiester family political dynasty, being the nephew of William Muhlenberg Hiester and the cousin of Isaac Ellmaker Hiester, both of whom were involved in politics. Clymer's political career began in earnest when he became a delegate to the national conventions of the Democratic Party in 1860 and 1868. His political involvement deepened when he was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate, where he served the 8th district from 1861 to 1866. During his time in the state senate, Clymer was known for opposing legislation that supported the Republican Party's efforts during the American Civil War, reflecting his strong opposition to the administration of President Abraham Lincoln.

In 1866, Clymer made an unsuccessful bid for the governorship of Pennsylvania. His campaign was characterized by a platform that included white supremacist themes, which were reflected in the graphic and controversial materials produced by his campaign. He lost the election to Union Major-General John W. Geary, marking a setback in his political ambitions but not the end of his career.

House tenure

Clymer's political journey continued when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1872. He officially took office on March 4, 1873, representing Pennsylvania's 8th congressional district. His time in Congress lasted until March 3, 1881, during which he served four consecutive terms. Clymer's tenure was marked by his involvement in various congressional committees, including the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Expenditures in the Department of State. He also held the position of chairman of the Committee on Expenditures in the Department of War, where he played a role in overseeing government spending related to military affairs.

One of the notable events during Clymer's congressional career was his investigation into Secretary of War William W. Belknap. This investigation was significant as it addressed allegations of corruption within the War Department. Although Belknap resigned from his position before being impeached by the House of Representatives, the inquiry highlighted issues of accountability within the government and showcased Clymer's engagement with pressing political matters of the time.

Clymer's legislative activities and committee assignments reflected his interests and priorities as a member of Congress. His work in the House was characterized by a focus on fiscal matters, particularly concerning government expenditures. This focus aligned with his background in law and his experience in the Pennsylvania State Senate, where he had dealt with budgetary issues at the state level.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his time in the House of Representatives, Clymer was involved in various legislative initiatives and discussions that shaped the political landscape of his era. His role on the Committee on Appropriations was particularly influential, as this committee was responsible for determining how federal funds were allocated across different government departments and programs. Clymer's participation in this committee allowed him to influence budgetary decisions and advocate for the interests of his constituents in Pennsylvania.

In addition to his work on the Committee on Appropriations, Clymer's chairmanship of the Committee on Expenditures in the Department of War positioned him at the intersection of military and fiscal policy. This role required him to oversee expenditures related to the military and ensure that funds were being used appropriately. His involvement in these committees demonstrated his commitment to fiscal responsibility and governance, as well as his engagement with issues that were critical to the nation's post-Civil War recovery.

After leaving Congress in 1881, Clymer transitioned into the private sector, where he continued to exert influence in the business community. He served as vice president of the Union Trust Company in Philadelphia and as president of the Clymer Iron Company. His business endeavors reflected a shift from public service to private enterprise, yet he remained a notable figure in Pennsylvania's political and economic landscape.

Clymer's life came to an end on June 12, 1884, in Reading, Pennsylvania. His death was reported as a suicide, attributed to financial difficulties he faced at the time. He was interred at Charles Evans Cemetery, leaving behind a complex legacy shaped by his political actions and business pursuits. Clymer's career illustrates the intertwining of law, politics, and business in the 19th century, as well as the challenges faced by individuals navigating these spheres during a transformative period in American history.