Maine Ghost Hunters

Tag: Republican Party

  • Anson P. Morrill

    Anson P. Morrill

    Early Life 

    Anson Peaslee Morrill was born on June 10, 1803, in Belgrade, Maine. As one of the older children in a large family of 14, he spent his early years hunting, fishing, and trapping on the land. His education was sporadic, attending school when it was open and working for his father’s mill, which included a grist mill, carding machine, and saw mill, when it was not. Despite these humble beginnings, Anson’s reputation for honesty and integrity was established early on, earning him the trust of those around him. 

    Early Adulthood and Political Life 

    At the age of 21, Anson opened a mercantile store in Belgrade. A year later, he was appointed Postmaster of Dearborn, a position he held until 1841. He moved around a bit, living in Belgrade Hill, Madison, Mount Vernon, and Readfield. In Readfield, he took over the management of a woolen mill that was near financial ruin. He invested his life savings into it, and it became prosperous, allowing him to live comfortably for the rest of his life. 

    Adulthood and Politics 

    Anson held various political posts throughout his life. He was elected to the Maine State Legislature in 1834, served as sheriff of Somerset County for a term in 1839, and was elected to the State House from Madison in 1844. He was elected as the first Republican Governor of Maine in 1855, receiving 44% of the votes. He ran for Governor again in 1855 but the legislature chose Governor Wells. He was a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1856 and was elected to the US House of Representatives in 1860. 

    Later Business Life 

    After his political career, Anson went on to become the President of the board of Directors of the Maine Central Railroad Company from 1873 to 1875, and later served as its Vice President from 1876 to 1887. 

    Retirement 

    In 1879, Anson moved to Augusta, where he lived in retirement. However, even in his retirement, he was elected for the state legislature in 1881-1882, at the age of 77. He passed away in his Augusta residence on July 4, 1887, after suffering a short illness which involved paralysis. 

    Personal Life 

    Anson was a universalist who attended church regularly and financially supported it. He was known for his generosity, often helping out his friends in their business ventures, even if it meant suffering financial losses. He was known as a patient, understanding, forgiving, and charitable man, truly the whole package. 

    Anson Peaslee Morrill’s life is a testament to his dedication to his community, his state, and his country. His legacy lives on in the institutions he helped build and the values he upheld. 

  • Governor Edwin Chick Burleigh

    Governor Edwin Chick Burleigh

    Edwin C. Burleigh: A Legacy of Leadership 

    Edwin C. Burleigh, the 42nd Governor of Maine, was more than just a political figure. His life and career were characterized by a deep commitment to the people and the state he served. Born into a family of politically active men, Burleigh’s upbringing laid the foundation for his future as a leader at both the state and national level. 

    Early Life and Career 

    Born in Linneus, Maine, on November 27, 1843, Edwin C. Burleigh was the son of Parker P. Burleigh, a prominent figure in his time. Edwin’s early education took place in the town school and at Houlton Academy. After completing his academic course, he taught for a time before taking up land surveying. His knowledge of the public lands of the state was unparalleled, leading to his appointment as a clerk in the land office in Augusta in 1870. He later served as Land Agent, Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives, and State Treasurer. 

    A Governor’s Legacy 

    Burleigh’s tenure as Governor of Maine was marked by significant reforms and additions to the state’s laws. His administration saw the creation of a state department for agriculture and a forestry commission. He also implemented tax reforms that increased the State valuation by $104,000,000 and reduced the State tax to two and one-fourth mills. His efforts led to the refunding of the six per cent. State bonded debt at three percent., resulting in an annual saving to the State of $71,530. 

    Under his leadership, the State appropriation for pensions was increased, a permanent muster field was purchased and equipped, and the Australian ballot law was adopted. His administration ensured that no class of Maine’s population was neglected. Farmers, soldiers, scholars, merchants, workmen, rich and poor, all shared in the increased benefits of wise government and judicious conservation of Maine’s resources.

    Ten Things to Know About Edwin C. Burleigh 

    1. Timberland Owner: Burleigh owned vast amounts of timberland and was instrumental in passing the anti-forest-fire law, which imposed heavy penalties for purposely or carelessly setting forest fires. He also made the land agent Maine’s “forest commissioner” with wardens in every section.
    2. Investor in the Bangor & Aroostook Railroad Company: His investment helped open up the most northern and wooded areas of Maine.
    3. Owner of the Kennebec Journal: Along with his son, Clarence B. Burleigh, he ran the Kennebec Journal, a central point of communication for the Republican Party.
    4. Advocate for Mental Health: As Governor, he appointed the commission to find a suitable location for a second State Hospital in Bangor.
    5. Congressman: As a Congressman, he was a major reason the U.S. Government handed over the Arsenal in Augusta to the State of Maine.
    6. Lighthouse Builder: He secured appropriations of $140,000 for the building of Isle au Haut Lighthouse, also known as Robinson Point Light.
    7. Supporter of the National Guard: He is the primary reason Camp Keyes became a central muster point for the Maine National Guard.
    8. Saver of the Capitol: The Capitol was not moved to Portland because of Burleigh, saving the State of Maine over $2 million.
    9. Advocate for Representation: Burleigh is why Maine has two Representatives in the U.S. Congress instead of one.
    10. A Loving Husband: He died only one month (five weeks) after his wife, a testament to their deep bond.

    Edwin C. Burleigh’s legacy continues to impact the state of Maine and its people. His life and career serve as a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a deep love for one’s community.