Kinsley Scott Bingham

Republican Senator of Michigan

Congresses Served

House Terms

Senate Terms

December 16, 1808 (52 years old)

Birthday

October 5, 1861

Death

Served as a U.S. Representative, a U.S. Senator, and the 11th governor of Michigan.
Born into a farmer family and pursued law studies before entering politics.
Moved to Michigan in 1833, where he began his political career holding local offices such as justice of the peace, postmaster, and judge of the probate court.
Became a member of the Michigan State House of Representatives in 1837, serving multiple terms and as speaker of the house.
Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1846, serving until 1851, and was known for his opposition to the expansion of slavery.
Affiliated with the Democratic Party initially, then joined the Free Soil Party, and later became a Republican.
Elected as the first Republican governor of Michigan in 1854, re-elected in 1856, and played a key role in establishing educational institutions including what is today Michigan State University.
Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1858, serving until his death in 1861, and was active in the campaign for Abraham Lincoln’s election.
Died in office and was originally interred in a private family graveyard before being reinterred at Old Village Cemetery in Brighton, Michigan.
Three townships in Michigan are named in his honor, and a portrait of him hangs in the Michigan State Capitol.