Elisha Harris

Elisha Harris (born September 8, 1791 in Cranston , Rhode Island , † February 1, 1861 ) was an American politician and Governor of the state of Rhode Island from 1847 to 1849 .

Early years and political career

Elisha Harris attended his homeland public schools and East Greenwhich Seminary . After finishing school, he worked as an accountant at Roger Williams Mills . In 1822 he went into business for himself and founded his own company.

Politically, Harris became a member of the Whig Party , which he represented for several legislative terms in the House of Representatives from Rhode Island . Between 1846 and 1847 he was lieutenant governor of his state and in 1847 he was elected the new governor. After a re-election in 1848 he was able to exercise this office between May 4, 1847 and May 1, 1849. During this time he campaigned for school and administrative reform. In 1850 he ran again, but without success, for the office of governor.

Another résumé

Harris was President of Providence Bank from 1846 to 1861 . After the dissolution of the Whigs, he joined the newly formed Republican Party . He was one of Abraham Lincoln's electors in the 1860 presidential election . Elisha Harris died on February 1, 1861. He had three children with his wife, Sarah Taylor.

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personal data
SURNAME	Harris, Elisha
BRIEF DESCRIPTION	American politician
DATE OF BIRTH	September 8, 1791
PLACE OF BIRTH	Cranston , Rhode Island
DATE OF DEATH	February 1, 1861