William Sneed

William Sneed was an American attorney and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Tennessee's 2nd congressional district during the mid-19th century. His political career unfolded during a tumultuous period leading up to the Civil War, where he initially opposed secession but later became a prominent figure in the secessionist movement in Knoxville. Sneed's professional life was marked by his legal practice and various business ventures, including ownership of the Lamar House Hotel.

Early life and career

William Sneed was born on August 27, 1812, in rural Davidson County, Tennessee. He spent his early years in a family environment that valued education and hard work. After completing his preparatory studies, Sneed moved with his family to Rutherford County, where he pursued a legal education. He studied law diligently and was admitted to the bar in 1834, beginning his legal practice in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

In 1839, Sneed entered into a partnership with Judge Charles Ready, which lasted until 1843. This collaboration allowed him to gain valuable experience and establish a reputation within the legal community. Following this partnership, Sneed transitioned into a political role, serving in the Tennessee Senate from 1843 to 1845, where he represented Rutherford County and Williamson County. During his time in the Senate, he was involved in a notable attempt to relocate the state capital from Nashville to Murfreesboro, arguing that the interests of the latter were more representative of the state's population.

After his term in the Senate, Sneed briefly relocated to Greeneville, where he formed a law partnership with Robert J. McKinney. However, by the end of 1845, he had moved to Knoxville, where he continued his legal practice. In Knoxville, Sneed quickly integrated into the local business and political landscape. He gained recognition for his legal skills, particularly in chancery court cases, and formed a partnership with prominent attorney Oliver Perry Temple. His legal acumen was further demonstrated when he successfully represented Hancock County in a lawsuit regarding its formation, leading to the county seat being named Sneedville in his honor.

In 1856, Sneed expanded his business interests by purchasing the Lamar House Hotel, which had undergone significant renovations and expansions in the early 1850s. This acquisition marked a significant milestone in his career, as he balanced his legal practice with his business ventures.

House tenure

William Sneed's political career reached a new height when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives, serving from March 4, 1855, to March 3, 1857. Initially a member of the Whig Party, Sneed transitioned to the American Party as the Whig Party began to decline nationally. His tenure in Congress occurred during the Thirty-fourth Congress, a period marked by increasing tensions over issues such as slavery and states' rights.

During his time in the House, Sneed held the position of chairman of the United States House Committee on Mileage, where he was responsible for overseeing matters related to congressional travel reimbursements. His legislative activities, however, were relatively limited, and he chose not to seek renomination in 1856. Additionally, he declined a nomination for a circuit judgeship, indicating a shift in his political ambitions.

Sneed's congressional career was notable for its brevity, as he served only one term in the House. After leaving Congress, he aligned himself with the Democratic Party, reflecting the changing political landscape of the time. His departure from the House marked a transition in his career as he shifted his focus back to local politics and legal practice.

Legislative focus and committees

While serving in the House of Representatives, William Sneed's legislative focus was primarily on issues pertinent to his constituents and the broader political climate of the time. As chairman of the House Committee on Mileage, he was involved in administrative matters related to congressional operations, but there is limited information on specific legislative initiatives he championed during his tenure.

Sneed's political career unfolded against the backdrop of significant national turmoil, particularly concerning the impending Civil War. Initially opposed to secession, his views evolved over time, leading him to become a leader in Knoxville's secessionist movement. His shift in sentiment brought him into conflict with prominent pro-Union figures, including his friend William "Parson" Brownlow, who was a vocal advocate for the Union.

In the months leading up to the Civil War, Sneed published a circular advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, arguing that East Tennesseans should avoid violence against fellow Southerners. He expressed concerns about the economic implications of emancipation for poor Southern whites, framing the debate around slavery in terms of economic competition and taxation.

Sneed's involvement in the secessionist movement and his subsequent actions during the Civil War illustrate the complexities of his political beliefs. He remained in Knoxville through the early years of the war, but as Union forces occupied the city, he was forced to flee to Bristol. His return to Knoxville in 1867 marked a new chapter in his life, as he resumed his legal practice and sought to recover his properties, including the Lamar House Hotel.

William Sneed passed away on September 18, 1869, and was interred in Old Gray Cemetery in Knoxville. His legacy includes his contributions to the legal profession and his role in the political landscape of Tennessee during a critical period in American history. His children continued to operate the Lamar House Hotel until the 1890s, ensuring that his name remained associated with the establishment long after his death.