Benjamin Swan (Vermont politician)
Benjamin Swan | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Worcester, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Died | April 11, 1839 (aged 76) Woodstock, Vermont, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, banker, politician |
| Years active | 1791–1839 |
| Known for | Longest-serving Vermont State Treasurer (1800–1833) |
Benjamin Swan (November 12, 1762 – April 11, 1839) was a notable American businessman, banker, and political figure in Vermont, recognized for his tenure as State Treasurer.
Early life
Swan was born in Worcester, Massachusetts to William and Lavina (Keyes) Swan. He gained experience in commerce through training in Worcester, Boston, and Montreal before settling in Woodstock, Vermont in 1791.
Business career
Continuing his mercantile activities, Swan also assumed significant roles within the banking sector, including a position on the board of the Vermont State Bank. His investments extended to various ventures, particularly a pearl ash manufacturing enterprise, which contributed to his expanding business interests amid Vermont’s growing economy.
Political career
A committed Federalist, Swan occupied several local governmental roles such as Postmaster and served as a Justice of the Peace when the office entailed judicial responsibilities. He was involved with the militia, attaining the rank of Major.
He was appointed County Clerk in 1796 and maintained this role until his passing. In 1800, Swan was elected Vermont State Treasurer, becoming the state’s longest-serving Treasurer by remaining in office until 1833.
After many elections with little opposition, Swan narrowly lost his bid for reelection in 1833 to Augustine Clarke, who secured 19,661 votes (50.8%) against Swan’s 19,056 (49.2%). Clarke was affiliated with the Anti-Masonic Party, reflecting the emergence of this third party in opposition to Swan’s own Masonic connections.
Death and burial
Swan passed away in Woodstock on April 11, 1839. His final resting place is at River Street Cemetery in Woodstock.
House
The residence known as Major Benjamin Swan’s home, located at 37 Elm St., Woodstock and constructed in the mid-1790s, continues to stand as a private home and local historic site.
Family
In 1804, Swan wed Lucy Gay. Their offspring included Benjamin (1805–1852), Lucy (1810–1892), and Mary (1813–1867), along with several children who died during infancy.
His brother, Timothy Swan, was a composer and poet residing in Suffield, Connecticut. Swan’s sister Lavina married Vermont Lieutenant Governor Jonathan Hunt, a member of the influential Hunt family. His nephew was U.S. Congressman Jonathan Hunt.