William Bigler

William Bigler was an American politician from Pennsylvania who served as a Democratic U.S. Senator from 1856 to 1861 and was the 12th Governor of Pennsylvania from 1852 to 1855. His political career was marked by significant involvement in state and national issues, particularly during a tumultuous period leading up to the American Civil War. Bigler's legacy includes his contributions to Pennsylvania's political landscape and his alignment with pro-slavery measures during his time in the Senate.

Early life and career

William Bigler was born on January 1, 1814, in Sherman Valley, Pennsylvania, to Jacob and Susan Dock Bigler. He received his early education in public schools, where he developed a foundation for his future career. Bigler began his professional life as a printer's apprentice and later worked as a journalist. He joined the staff of the Centre County Democrat newspaper, which was overseen by his older brother, John Bigler, who would later become the governor of California.

In 1833, encouraged by friends, including future Pennsylvania Governor Andrew Curtin, Bigler established his own political newspaper, the Clearfield Democrat. This publication was aligned with Jacksonian democracy, reflecting the political ideologies of the time. Two years later, in 1836, he married Maria Jane Reed, with whom he had five children. After selling his newspaper, Bigler entered the lumber business, becoming a co-partner in his father-in-law's enterprise. His lumber business thrived between 1845 and 1850, becoming the largest producer of building supplies along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, which earned him the nickname "The Clearfield Raftsman."

Bigler's political career began in earnest when he served as a member of the Pennsylvania Senate for the 20th district from 1841 to 1846. During his tenure, he held the position of Speaker from 1845 to 1846. He was instrumental in various legislative efforts, including the abolition of imprisonment for debt in Pennsylvania and the establishment of two insane asylums in Philadelphia and Harrisburg. Additionally, he advocated for the construction of a central railroad connecting Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which ultimately led to the development of a cross-state line in 1847 that would become part of the Pennsylvania Railroad. In 1849, he was appointed as Pennsylvania's revenue commissioner, further solidifying his role in state governance.

Senate tenure

William Bigler's political trajectory continued to rise when he was elected as the 12th Governor of Pennsylvania in 1851, defeating the incumbent William F. Johnston. His election was notable as he and his brother John were the first siblings to serve as governors of different states simultaneously. As governor, Bigler took a firm stance against wildcat banking, vetoing numerous bank charters and bills that he believed would undermine the state's financial stability. However, his popularity waned due to his support for the Walker Tariff, his stance on slavery, and his enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. In 1855, he faced a significant defeat in his bid for re-election, losing to James Pollock, the candidate from the newly formed Republican Party.

After his gubernatorial term, Bigler transitioned to the private sector, becoming the president of the Philadelphia and Erie Railroad. In 1856, he was elected to the United States Senate after the Pennsylvania legislature failed to elect a senator in the previous year. He served in the Senate until March 3, 1861. During his time in the Senate, Bigler's political alignment remained with pro-slavery measures, reflecting the contentious national climate of the period. He visited the Kansas Territory in 1857 and subsequently advocated for Kansas statehood under the pro-slavery Lecompton Constitution. His involvement in the Democratic National Convention in 1860 included opposition to the nomination of Stephen A. Douglas, indicating his commitment to the party's pro-slavery faction.

As the nation approached the Civil War, Bigler supported the compromise proposed by Kentucky Senator John J. Crittenden, which aimed to prevent secession. His tenure in the Senate was characterized by a focus on maintaining the Union while also appeasing Southern interests, a balancing act that would become increasingly difficult as tensions escalated.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his political career, William Bigler's legislative focus was heavily influenced by the prevailing issues of his time, particularly regarding banking, infrastructure, and slavery. As a state senator, he played a crucial role in reforming Pennsylvania's banking system, advocating against practices that he believed would harm the state's economy. His efforts to abolish imprisonment for debt were significant in promoting social justice and reform during his time.

In the Senate, Bigler's alignment with pro-slavery policies was evident in his support for measures that favored Southern interests. His advocacy for the Lecompton Constitution during the Kansas statehood debate highlighted his commitment to maintaining the institution of slavery in the face of growing opposition. This stance ultimately contributed to his declining popularity, particularly as the Republican Party gained traction in Pennsylvania and nationally.

Bigler's involvement in the Democratic National Convention and his support for compromises during the secession crisis reflected his attempts to navigate the complex political landscape of the era. Despite his efforts, the divisions within the country continued to deepen, culminating in the Civil War.

After leaving the Senate, Bigler remained engaged in Pennsylvania politics, serving as a delegate to the Pennsylvania constitutional convention in 1873. He also played a significant role in organizing the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, which celebrated the nation's 100th anniversary. William Bigler passed away on August 9, 1880, in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, and was interred in Hillcrest Cemetery. His legacy is preserved in various locations named in his honor, including Biglerville, Pennsylvania, and Bigler Hall at Penn State University, among others.