Barnabas Bidwell

Democratic Republican Representative of Massachusetts

Congresses Served

House Terms

August 23, 1763 (69 years old)

Birthday

July 27, 1833

Death

Politician and lawyer active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Educated at Yale College and studied law under a prominent judge.
Practiced law in western Massachusetts and served as treasurer of Berkshire County.
Held various political positions, including state senator, state representative, and U.S. Congressman.
Served as a leading spokesman for President Thomas Jefferson’s administration in Congress.
Advocated for significant legislation, including the abolition of the slave trade in the U.S.
Resigned from Congress amid controversy related to alleged financial irregularities.
Fled to Upper Canada due to political pressures and accusations from opponents.
Elected to the Legislative Assembly of Upper Canada but was expelled due to challenges regarding his character and citizenship.
Lived the remainder of his life in Upper Canada, where he remained politically active despite challenges.
His legacy includes a son who also served in the Legislative Assembly and a connection to a U.S. Supreme Court Justice through his family.