Charles Knapp (congressman)
Charles Knapp | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Colchester, New York, U.S. |
| Died | May 14, 1880 (aged 82) Deposit, New York, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Politician, businessman |
| Years active | 1825–1880 |
| Known for | U.S. Congressman from New York |
Charles Knapp (October 8, 1797 – May 14, 1880) was a U.S. Congressman from New York and the father of Charles J. Knapp, who also served in Congress.
Knapp was born in Colchester, New York, and received his education through homeschooling and attendance at local common schools. His early professional life involved farming and teaching before he transitioned into business activities in 1825, eventually managing operations such as a lumber mill and a tannery.
In 1830, 1835, and 1836, Knapp held the positions of Town Supervisor for Colchester and was a member of the Delaware County Board of Supervisors. Originally a Democrat supporting Martin Van Buren, he represented Delaware County in the New York State Assembly in 1841.
After moving to Deposit, New York, in 1848, Knapp established the Knapp Bank in 1854, where he acted as president. With the emergence of the Republican Party in the mid-1850s, he shifted his political allegiance to this new party.
Knapp was elected as a Republican to serve New York's 19th congressional district during the 41st United States Congress from 1869 to 1871. Choosing not to run for another term in 1870, he resumed his focus on banking and other business ventures.
He passed away in Deposit on May 14, 1880.