Willard Saulsbury Sr.

Willard Saulsbury Sr. was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Delaware. A member of the Democratic Party, he held office during a tumultuous period in American history, including the Civil War. Saulsbury's political career was marked by his strong opposition to President Abraham Lincoln's administration and his controversial actions in the Senate. He was also known for his familial connections, being the brother of a governor and another U.S. senator. After his Senate tenure, he continued to practice law and served as Chancellor of Delaware until his death in 1892.

Early life and career

Willard Saulsbury Sr. was born on June 2, 1820, in Mispillion Hundred, Kent County, Delaware. He was the son of William Saulsbury and Margaret Ann Smith Saulsbury. Growing up in a politically active family, he had two notable siblings: Gove Saulsbury, who served as Governor of Delaware, and Eli Saulsbury, who also became a U.S. Senator. The Saulsbury brothers were educated at the Chinquapin School in Burrsville, a local institution that provided foundational education in the region.

Saulsbury pursued higher education at Dickinson College and Delaware College, which is now known as the University of Delaware. After completing his studies, he turned to law, gaining admission to the Delaware Bar and establishing his legal practice in Georgetown, Delaware. His career in law coincided with his involvement in politics, as he held the position of Delaware Attorney General from 1850 to 1855. During this time, he developed a reputation as a prominent figure in Delaware's legal and political landscape.

In his personal life, Saulsbury married Annie Ponder, who was the sister of Governor James Ponder. Together, they had three children: John Ponder, Margaret, and Willard Jr. The family was affiliated with the Episcopal Church, reflecting the religious practices common in their community. Notably, Saulsbury was a slaveholder, a fact that aligns with the historical context of his time and the state of Delaware, which was a border state during the Civil War.

Senate tenure

Saulsbury's political career advanced significantly when he was elected to the United States Senate in 1858, defeating the incumbent Martin W. Bates. His first term began on March 4, 1859. During his time in the Senate, he was known for his strong Democratic Party affiliation and his vocal opposition to certain federal policies, particularly those enacted by President Lincoln during the Civil War.

Saulsbury was re-elected to the Senate in 1864, serving a total of two full terms until March 4, 1871. His tenure was marked by significant national events, including the Civil War and its aftermath. However, his political career faced a setback when he was defeated for a third term in 1870 by his brother Eli Saulsbury. Following his Senate career, Saulsbury returned to his legal practice and continued to be involved in public service.

In 1873, Saulsbury was appointed Chancellor of the Court of Chancery of Delaware, a position he held until his death in 1892. This role allowed him to influence Delaware's legal system and contribute to the state's governance long after his time in the Senate had ended.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the Senate, Saulsbury was known for his strong opposition to the policies of President Abraham Lincoln, particularly regarding the Civil War and the suspension of habeas corpus. His criticisms were not only vocal but also confrontational, culminating in a notable incident in which he verbally attacked the President on the Senate floor. This confrontation highlighted his contentious relationship with the administration and underscored the deep divisions within the country during the war.

Saulsbury's legislative focus included issues pertinent to his constituents and the broader national context of the time. He was involved in discussions and debates that reflected the tensions between states' rights and federal authority, a central theme of the Civil War era. His actions in the Senate were often characterized by a passionate defense of his views, even when they led to conflicts with other senators and the executive branch.

In addition to his opposition to Lincoln, Saulsbury's tenure included participation in various Senate committees, although specific details about his committee assignments are not extensively documented. His political actions and stances contributed to the broader discourse on civil liberties and the role of government during a period of significant upheaval in American history.

Willard Saulsbury Sr. passed away on April 6, 1892, in Dover, Delaware. He is buried in the Christ Episcopal Church Cemetery in Dover. His legacy includes not only his political career but also the continuation of his family's political involvement, as his son Willard Saulsbury Jr. later served as a U.S. Senator. Saulsbury's life and career reflect the complexities of American politics in the 19th century, particularly in the context of Delaware's unique position as a border state during the Civil War.