John Rhoderic McPherson served as a Senator from New Jersey in the United States Congress from 1877 to 1895. A member of the Democratic Party, John Rhoderic McPherson contributed to the legislative process during 3 terms in office.
John Rhoderic McPherson’s service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history. As a member of the Senate, John Rhoderic McPherson participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of constituents.
John Rhoderic McPherson (May 9, 1833 – October 8, 1897) was an American businessman, inventor, and Democratic politician who represented New Jersey in the United States Senate for three terms from 1877 to 1895. Prior to his election, he was engaged in Jersey City politics and represented Hudson County in the New Jersey Senate. A native of York, New York, McPherson raised livestock and worked as a butcher before moving to Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1858, where became a prominent businessman in the meatpacking industry. An inventor, he devised or created improvements that enhanced sanitation and efficiency in slaughterhouses, many of which were later employed as industry standards. Active in politics as a Democrat, McPherson served on the Jersey City Board of Aldermen, as president of the Board of Aldermen, and as a member of the New Jersey State Senate. In 1877, McPherson was elected to the United States Senate. He was reelected twice and served from 1877 to 1895. During his Senate service, McPherson spent several terms as chairman of the Naval Affairs Committee. After leaving the Senate, McPherson resumed his activities in the meatpacking business. He died in Jersey City on October 8, 1897. He was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
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