George Hendee

George Hendee was a prominent figure in Vermont's political landscape during the late 19th century. He served as a U.S. Representative for Vermont's 3rd congressional district, holding office from 1873 to 1879. A member of the Republican Party, Hendee's political career was marked by various roles, including state senator, lieutenant governor, and governor of Vermont. His contributions to state and national politics were significant, particularly in the context of the Republican Party's dominance in Vermont during his time.

Early life and career

George Hendee was born on November 30, 1832, in Stowe, Vermont. He received his early education in the common schools of Morrisville, Vermont, and later attended People's Academy. Hendee pursued a legal career by studying law under the guidance of his uncle, Whitman G. Ferrin, in Johnson, Vermont. He was admitted to the bar in 1855 and began his legal practice in Morrisville.

In addition to his legal career, Hendee was actively involved in local governance and education. He served as the Superintendent of Schools in Morrisville, where he contributed to the development of educational policies and practices. His commitment to public service extended to the banking sector, where he held several significant positions. Hendee was a director of the Portland and Ogdensburg Railway, president of the Montreal, Portland and Boston Railway, and vice president of the Union Savings Bank and Trust Company in Morrisville. He also served as the receiver for both the National Bank of Poultney and the Vermont National Bank of St. Albans.

Hendee's political career began in earnest when he was elected as State's Attorney for Lamoille County in 1858 and 1859. He later served in the Vermont House of Representatives from 1861 to 1863. During the Civil War, he took on the role of deputy provost marshal, overseeing conscription and recruitment efforts in Vermont. His political trajectory continued as he was elected to the Vermont State Senate, where he served from 1866 to 1869 and was chosen as Senate President.

In 1869, Hendee was elected as the Lieutenant Governor of Vermont. Following the death of Governor Peter T. Washburn on February 7, 1870, Hendee ascended to the governorship, completing the remainder of Washburn's term until October 3, 1870. However, he did not seek a full term in the subsequent election, as the Republican Party was deliberating on the nomination process and the implications of the Mountain Rule, which dictated the rotation of gubernatorial candidates from different sides of the Green Mountains.

House tenure

Hendee returned to public office in 1872 when he was elected as a Republican to represent Vermont's 3rd congressional district in the Forty-third Congress. His congressional service began on March 4, 1873, and he was re-elected to the Forty-fourth and Forty-fifth Congresses, serving until March 3, 1879. Throughout his time in the House of Representatives, Hendee was involved in various legislative matters and served on important committees, including the committee on private land claims and the District of Columbia committee.

The 3rd congressional district, which Hendee represented, encompassed the six northern counties of Vermont and crossed the Green Mountains. His election victories included defeating Democratic nominee John L. Edwards in both the 1874 and 1876 elections. Hendee's tenure in Congress was characterized by his participation in the drafting and passage of legislation that altered the governance structure of the District of Columbia. His involvement in these legislative efforts reflected his commitment to addressing the needs of his constituents and the broader issues facing the nation.

Despite his successes, Hendee chose not to run for re-election in 1878. This decision was influenced by the Republican Party's desire to adhere to the Mountain Rule, which aimed to provide representation from both sides of the Green Mountains. Hendee's decision to step aside for William W. Grout was part of a broader strategy to ensure equitable representation within the party. Grout, however, faced defeat in the general election against Bradley Barlow, a Republican candidate running as a "National Republican" with the backing of the Greenback Party.

After concluding his congressional service, Hendee returned to his legal practice and continued to engage in various business ventures. He developed a particular interest in the breeding of Morgan horses, a breed that originated in Vermont and became known for its versatility and strength. Additionally, he served as Vermont's national bank examiner from 1879 to 1885, further contributing to the financial oversight of the state.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Hendee's legislative focus included issues pertinent to land claims and governance, particularly concerning the District of Columbia. His work on the committee on private land claims involved addressing the legal complexities surrounding land ownership and rights, which were significant topics during the period of westward expansion and settlement in the United States.

Hendee's role on the District of Columbia committee was particularly notable, as he contributed to the legislative efforts that aimed to reform the governance of the nation's capital. This work was essential in shaping the administrative framework of the District, reflecting the growing importance of the federal government in managing urban areas and ensuring effective governance.

Throughout his congressional career, Hendee's actions were influenced by the political landscape of the time, characterized by a strong Republican presence in Vermont. The Republican Party, which had dominated statewide elections since its inception, played a crucial role in shaping Hendee's political strategies and decisions. His adherence to party principles and the Mountain Rule demonstrated his commitment to the party's traditions and the importance of regional representation.

Hendee's legislative contributions and committee work were part of a broader narrative of a politician who navigated the complexities of governance during a transformative period in American history. His experiences in various political roles, including his time as governor and state senator, provided him with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Vermont and the nation.

George Hendee passed away on December 6, 1906, in Morrisville, Vermont. He is interred at Pleasant View Cemetery in Morrisville, leaving behind a legacy of public service and commitment to the state of Vermont. His career reflects the interconnectedness of local and national politics during a pivotal era in American history.