SEABURY FORD, the twentieth governor of Ohio, was born in Cheshire, Connecticut on October 15, 1801. His education was attained at Burton Academy, and at Yale University, where he graduated in 1825. He went on to study law, and then established his legal career in Burton, Ohio. He also became involved in the state militia, and eventually rose to the rank of major general. Ford first entered politics in 1835, serving as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, a position he held three terms. He also served as speaker of the house; was a member of the Ohio State Senate from 1841 to 1848. Ford next secured the Whig gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in the 1848 general election. Because the general election was the closest in Ohio history, Ford’s scheduled inauguration was delayed by six weeks. During his tenure, a cholera epidemic was dealt with; the “black laws” were abolished; and a constitutional convention was organized. Shortly after leaving the governorship, Ford suffered a debilitating stroke, and consequently passed away on May 5, 1855. Governor Seabury Ford was buried at the Welton Cemetery in Burton, Ohio.
Current assignment referenced in the congressional directory.
