William A. Wallace
William Andrew Wallace | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | May 22, 1896 (aged 68) |
| Occupation(s) | Attorney, politician |
| Years active | 1847–1896 |
| Known for | U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State Senate member and Speaker |
William Andrew Wallace (November 28, 1827 – May 22, 1896) was a distinguished American attorney and political figure from Pennsylvania. He represented Pennsylvania as a Democratic U.S. Senator between 1875 and 1881. Additionally, he was a member of the Pennsylvania State Senate for the 20th district from 1863 until 1886, holding the position of speaker in 1871.
Biography
Wallace was born in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania and relocated with his family to Clearfield, Pennsylvania in 1836. He pursued legal studies under the guidance of his father, gained admission to the bar in 1847, and balanced his law practice with teaching responsibilities at Clearfield Academy.
In 1854, Wallace led the Clearfield Guards as captain and emerged as a notable Peace Democrat during the Civil War era. His extensive service in the Pennsylvania State Senate spanned from 1863 to 1886, including his role as Speaker in 1871. He also contributed to the formulation of amendments to the 1874 Pennsylvania Constitution.
Wallace was elected by the Pennsylvania General Assembly to serve a single term in the U.S. Senate starting in 1875 and concluding in 1881. During his tenure, he presided over the Senate Democratic Conference from 1877 to 1881 and chaired the Committee on the Revision of Laws during the 46th Congress. His committee assignments also included Finance, Appropriations, and Foreign Relations. Following his Senate service, he resumed involvement in state politics and continued his legal career.
In business ventures, Wallace purchased and renamed Smith Mines to Wallace Mines in 1864. He was instrumental in establishing Clearfield County Bank in 1865 and served on its board as well as that of County National Bank of Clearfield. In 1871, he invested in coal mining operations near Logan Coal Company but divested by 1878. His leadership roles extended to vice president of the Texas and Pacific Railroad, president of the Beech Creek Railroad, director of the Clearfield Cemetery Association, and partial ownership of Wallacetown Brick Company.
Wallace sought the governorship of Pennsylvania twice but was unsuccessful in elections held in 1886 and again in 1890. He passed away due to a stroke while conducting business activities in New York City in 1896.