Tazewell Ellett

Tazewell Ellett was a U.S. Representative from Virginia, serving in the House of Representatives from 1895 to 1897. A member of the Democratic Party, he represented Virginia's 3rd congressional district during his single term in Congress. Following his departure from the House, he returned to his legal career and engaged in various business ventures until his passing in 1914.

Early life and career

Tazewell Ellett was born on January 1, 1856, in Richmond, Virginia. He was the son of Andrew L. Ellett, who was associated with a local dry goods firm, Ellett, Waller, Drewry & Co. Ellett received his early education at private institutions in Richmond, including Strother's school, which laid the foundation for his later academic pursuits. He graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington in 1876, an institution known for its rigorous military and academic training.

Following his graduation from the Virginia Military Institute, Ellett continued his education at the University of Virginia Law School, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1878. After completing his legal education, he began practicing law in Richmond. Within six months, he formed a partnership with Francis Howe McGuire, and together they established the law firm McGuire & Ellett, which operated for twelve years. During this period, Ellett also held a position on the board of visitors of the Virginia Military Institute, contributing to the governance of the institution.

In addition to his legal career, Ellett served in the military. He was a member of the First Virginia Regiment, where he initially held the position of adjutant. He later rose through the ranks to become captain of Company F and ultimately attained the rank of lieutenant colonel. His military service likely influenced his leadership skills and community involvement.

Ellett's political career began in earnest in 1880 when he became a member of the Democratic committee in Richmond. He later served as the chairman of this committee for three years, demonstrating his commitment to the Democratic Party at the local level. From 1883 to 1888, he was the chairman of the Congressional Democratic Committee for Virginia's Third District, a role that involved organizing and strategizing for Democratic candidates in the region. In addition, he served as an advisor to Senator John S. Barbour Jr. for two years, further solidifying his connections within the political landscape of Virginia.

Ellett's political activities included serving as the Democratic canvasser-at-large for Virginia from 1884 to 1886, a role that involved overseeing electoral processes and ensuring the party's interests were represented. His political engagement culminated in 1888 when he served as a presidential elector for Grover Cleveland, participating in the electoral process at a national level.

House tenure

Tazewell Ellett's tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives began when he was elected as a Democrat to the Fifty-fourth Congress, which convened on March 4, 1895. He represented Virginia's 3rd congressional district, a position he held until March 3, 1897. During the election, Ellett secured a significant majority of the votes, receiving approximately 63.31% of the total. His victory was notable as he defeated several opponents, including Republican candidate J.W. Southward, Independents James M. Gregory and Martin Meredith Lipscomb, and Progressive George M. Smithdeal.

During his time in Congress, Ellett participated in the legislative process, contributing to discussions and decisions that shaped national policy. However, his congressional career was relatively brief, as he was not successful in his bid for reelection to the Fifty-fifth Congress in 1896. Following his departure from the House, Ellett returned to his legal practice in Richmond and later expanded his career to include work in New York City.

Legislative focus and committees

While specific details regarding Tazewell Ellett's legislative focus and committee assignments during his time in Congress are not extensively documented, it can be inferred that his background in law and his experience in local and state politics likely informed his legislative priorities. As a member of the Democratic Party, he would have aligned with the party's broader goals and initiatives during the mid-1890s, a period marked by significant political and economic changes in the United States.

After concluding his term in the House, Ellett resumed his legal practice and ventured into various business enterprises, including promotion and mining prospects. His professional activities took him to New York City, where he continued to engage in business while also traveling to South America for further opportunities.

Ellett's life was marked by a blend of legal practice, military service, and political engagement. He married Josephine Lyons Scott, the daughter of Robert Eden Scott from Fauquier County, and they had three children: two daughters and a son. His son, also named Tazewell, later married the daughter of Ellett's law partner, Francis Howe McGuire, indicating the continuation of personal and professional ties within the family.

Tazewell Ellett passed away on May 19, 1914, at the home of his daughter in Summerville, South Carolina. He was interred in Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, Virginia, marking the end of a life that spanned various fields, including law, military service, and politics. His contributions to his community and the state of Virginia remain a part of his legacy.