Daniel Russell (Massachusetts politician)
Daniel Russell | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Providence, Rhode Island, U.S. |
| Died | January 23, 1907 (aged 82) |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, politician |
| Years active | 1840s–1907 |
| Known for | Massachusetts Senate (1879–1880), president of Melrose Savings Bank |
Daniel Russell (July 10, 1824 – January 23, 1907) was a prominent American businessman and political figure who held office in the Massachusetts Senate between 1879 and 1880.
Career
Originally from Providence, Rhode Island, Russell left formal education at the age of sixteen to pursue work as a carriage painter. He moved to Boston in 1847 and began his career in the garment sector, initially employed by Edward Locke & Co., before joining Isaac Fenno & Co., where he attained partnership status in 1861. Due to health complications, he withdrew from business in 1869 but eventually regained his health.
In 1852, Russell made Melrose, Massachusetts his home and broadened his commercial ventures. He held the position of president at Melrose Savings Bank and served on the board of directors for the Malden and Melrose Gas Company. His public service included roles on Melrose’s board of selectmen and participation in the town’s water loan sinking fund commission. Politically, he represented the 6th Middlesex District in the Massachusetts Senate during 1879–1880 and acted as a delegate at the 1880 Republican National Convention.
Personal life
Russell was married to Mary Lynde, with whom he had two sons: William C. Russell and Daniel Blake Russell. Following Mary’s passing in 1899, his niece Sarah Almy assumed responsibility for his care.
He was among the founding members of the Hugh de Payens Commandery of the Knights Templar and fulfilled duties as organist for Wyoming Lodge of Masons for thirty-five years. Additionally, Russell served as a trustee for the Universalist Church.
Death
On January 23, 1907, Russell passed away after a short illness. His funeral, conducted with masonic rites, took place at his residence, and he was interred at Wyoming Cemetery. His estate was bequeathed to his two sons; however, after his death, two individuals claiming to be Daniel Blake Russell—who had vanished in 1885—appeared, resulting in a protracted four-year legal dispute over inheritance.