Noadiah Johnson

Noadiah Johnson (1795, Connecticut – April 4, 1839, Albany, New York) was an American lawyer, newspaperman, and politician who served one term as a U.S. Representative from New York from 1833 to 1835. Born in Connecticut in 1795, he spent his early years in New England before relocating as a young man to New York State, where he would establish his legal and political career.

In 1817, Johnson removed to Delaware County, New York, a move that marked the beginning of his long association with the community of Delhi. There he pursued the study of law, preparing for admission to the bar. After completing his legal studies, he was admitted to practice and commenced a law career in Delhi, New York, which became both his professional base and his home for the remainder of his life.

Alongside his legal work, Johnson became involved in local public affairs and the press. He was one of the publishers of the Delaware Gazette, a newspaper that served Delaware County and the surrounding region. His role as a newspaperman complemented his legal practice and helped establish his prominence in local civic life, providing him with a platform to engage in political discourse and community issues.

Johnson’s formal public career began at the county level. He was appointed District Attorney of Delaware County, serving from 1825 to 1833. In this capacity he was responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and representing the interests of the people of Delaware County in the courts, gaining experience in public administration and law enforcement that would support his later legislative work.

Building on his local reputation, Johnson was elected as a member of the Jackson Party, also known as the Jacksonian Democrats, to the 23rd United States Congress. He served as a Jacksonian Representative from New York from March 4, 1833, to March 3, 1835. During his single term in the U.S. House of Representatives, he participated in the legislative process at a time of significant national debate over issues such as federal power, economic policy, and the legacy of Andrew Jackson’s presidency. As a Jacksonian, he took part in the democratic process and represented the interests of his New York constituents in the national legislature.

After leaving Congress, Johnson continued his political career at the state level. He was elected to the New York State Senate from the 3rd District and served from 1837 until his death in 1839. During this period he sat in the 60th, 61st, and 62nd New York State Legislatures, contributing to the formulation of state laws and policies during a period of growth and change in New York. His service in the State Senate extended his influence beyond his earlier congressional term and reflected the confidence placed in him by voters in his region.

Noadiah Johnson died on April 4, 1839, in Albany, New York, while still in office as a state senator. He was buried at the Old Delhi Cemetery in Delhi, New York, underscoring his long-standing connection to the community where he had practiced law and engaged in public life. His family was also active in public service; State Senator Stephen C. Johnson was his brother, further linking the Johnson name to the political history of New York.