Samuel Arza Davenport, American lawyer and politician (d. 1911)

Samuel Arza Davenport: A Prominent Pennsylvania Republican in the 19th Century

Samuel Arza Davenport (January 15, 1834 – August 1, 1911) was an influential American lawyer, publisher, and politician who served as a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania. His career spanned significant periods of American industrial growth and political transformation, notably contributing to both legal and media landscapes in Erie, Pennsylvania, and on the national stage.

Early Life, Education, and Legal Foundation

Born on January 15, 1834, near Watkins Glen, New York, Samuel A. Davenport's early life saw him relocate with his family to Erie, Pennsylvania, in 1839. This move placed him in a rapidly developing industrial hub on Lake Erie's shore. He received his foundational education at the esteemed Erie Academy, a key institution for higher learning in the region at the time. Demonstrating early ambition and intellect, Davenport embarked on the rigorous path of legal studies. He successfully passed the bar examination and was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1854, qualifying him to practice law within the state's judicial system. Further solidifying his legal credentials, he pursued advanced studies at the prestigious Harvard Law School, graduating in 1855. Upon his graduation, he immediately commenced the practice of law in Erie, quickly establishing himself within the local legal community.

A Career in Public Service and Media Influence

Davenport's commitment to public service became evident early in his career. In 1860, he was elected District Attorney for Erie County, a crucial role responsible for prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This position provided him with invaluable experience in the legal system and a strong public profile in the region. Beyond his legal and political endeavors, Samuel Davenport also exerted considerable influence through media. From 1865 to 1890, he was the owner and publisher of the Erie Gazette, a significant local newspaper. In an era when newspapers were primary sources of information and powerful platforms for political discourse, his ownership of the Erie Gazette allowed him to shape public opinion and advocate for Republican principles and local interests for over two decades. His growing prominence within the Republican Party was further underscored by his selection as a delegate to the Republican National Conventions in both 1888 and 1892. These conventions were pivotal events where the Republican Party nominated its presidential candidates; Benjamin Harrison was the party's nominee in both years, winning the presidency in 1888 and seeking re-election in 1892.

Service in the U.S. House of Representatives

Samuel Davenport's distinguished career culminated in his election as an at-large Republican representative to the U.S. House of Representatives for Pennsylvania. An "at-large" representative is elected by the voters of the entire state, rather than from a specific congressional district, a reflection of his broad statewide recognition and appeal. He served two consecutive terms, representing Pennsylvania in the Fifty-fifth Congress (March 4, 1897 – March 3, 1899) and the Fifty-sixth Congress (March 4, 1899 – March 3, 1901). During these congressional terms, the nation grappled with significant issues, including the Spanish-American War (1898), the subsequent debates over the acquisition of new territories, and the burgeoning industrial expansion and trust regulation. While specific legislative achievements are not always detailed in historical records, his active participation during these pivotal debates underscored his role in national policymaking. Notably, he chose not to seek renomination in 1900, concluding his direct federal legislative service.

Later Life and Diverse Business Interests

Following his tenure in Congress, Samuel A. Davenport resumed his active legal practice, applying his expertise in county, state, and federal courts. His interests, however, extended beyond the legal realm. He was also significantly involved in various industrial enterprises, reflecting the vibrant economic landscape of Erie during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His diverse portfolio included interests in the Erie Car Works, a prominent manufacturer of railroad cars which played a vital role in America's expanding railway network during the Gilded Age. Furthermore, he held interests in the manufacturing of organs and boots and shoes, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and investment in key consumer and industrial goods sectors. Samuel Arza Davenport passed away in Erie in 1911, at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service, legal acumen, and entrepreneurial vision. He was laid to rest in the historic Erie Cemetery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Samuel A. Davenport

When and where was Samuel Arza Davenport born?

Samuel Arza Davenport was born on January 15, 1834, near Watkins Glen, New York.

What was Samuel Davenport's educational background?

He attended the Erie Academy and later graduated from the prestigious Harvard Law School in 1855, after being admitted to the bar in Pennsylvania in 1854.

What role did Samuel Davenport play in the media and politics?

From 1865 to 1890, Samuel Davenport owned and published the Erie Gazette, a significant local newspaper. He also served as Erie County District Attorney and was a delegate to the Republican National Conventions in 1888 and 1892.

Which U.S. Congresses did Samuel Davenport serve in?

He served as an at-large Republican representative from Pennsylvania in the Fifty-fifth Congress (1897-1899) and the Fifty-sixth Congress (1899-1901).

What were Samuel Davenport's business interests outside of law and politics?

Beyond his legal practice, he was involved in various manufacturing enterprises, including the Erie Car Works (railroad cars), and the production of organs and boots and shoes, reflecting his diverse entrepreneurial spirit.