Alexander Biddle

Alexander Williams Biddle
Born	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died	May 2, 1899(1899-05-02) (aged 80) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Entrepreneur, Union Army officer
Years active	1838–post-Civil War
Known for	Business leadership in Pennsylvania; service in the American Civil War

Alexander Williams Biddle (April 29, 1819 – May 2, 1899) was a notable Pennsylvania entrepreneur and a distinguished member of the influential Biddle family. He was the grandson of Clement Biddle, a soldier who served during the American Revolution. During the American Civil War, Biddle held an officer position in the Union Army and took part in several significant military operations.

Early life and education

Hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Alexander was the son of Thomas A. and Christine Williams Biddle. His early education took place at Sears C. Walker's school, after which he enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania in 1834, completing his studies in 1838. Following graduation, he joined the Bevan and Humphreys shipping company until 1842 before transitioning to his father’s enterprise, Thomas Biddle & Co., where he worked up until the outbreak of the Civil War.

Civil war

Biddle’s military involvement began with the Philadelphia City Cavalry, where he served from 1849 to 1858. Later, on September 1, 1862, he enlisted in the 121st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry commanded by his cousin Chapman Biddle. Advancing from major to colonel, he engaged in crucial battles such as the Battle of Fredericksburg, Battle of Chancellorsville, Battle of Gettysburg—under Abner Doubleday’s command—and the Battle of Bristoe Station. His contributions are honored on the monument dedicated to the 121st Pennsylvania at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Business career

Following his military service, Biddle stepped down from Thomas Biddle & Company and, in 1874, secured a position as director of the Pennsylvania Railroad. His leadership extended to directorship roles at the Philadelphia Savings Fund Company, Pennsylvania Company for Insurance on Lives and Granting Annuities, Lehigh Navigation Company, and Contributionship Insurance Company. Furthermore, he presided over the Board of City Trusts and participated on Pennsylvania Hospital’s board of managers. As executor for James Rush’s estate, Biddle significantly contributed to establishing the Ridgway Library within the Library Company of Philadelphia.

Personal life

In 1855, Alexander married Julia Williams Rush, a granddaughter of Benjamin Rush. Together, they had seven children.

He was actively involved with esteemed institutions including the American Philosophical Society, Franklin Institute, Academy of Natural Sciences, and the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution.

Biddle passed away on May 2, 1899, in Philadelphia and was laid to rest at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

See also

• Biddle family