William Fiero Russell

William Fiero Russell (January 14, 1812 – April 29, 1896) was an American banker who served one term as a U.S. Representative from New York from 1857 to 1859.

William Fiero Russell
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York's 11th district
In office March 4, 1857 – March 3, 1859
Preceded by	Rufus H. King
Succeeded by	William S. Kenyon
Member of the New York State Assembly from the Ulster district
In office 1851–1851
Preceded by	Milton Sheldon
Succeeded by	Jacob S. Freer
Personal details
Born	(1812-01-14)January 14, 1812 Saugerties, New York, U.S.
Died	April 26, 1896(1896-04-26) (aged 84) Saugerties, New York, U.S.
Political party	Democratic
Profession	Businessman, banker

Biography

He was born in Saugerties, New York on January 14, 1812, to Jeremiah Russell. He completed preparatory studies, and then became active in several businesses, often ventures in which his father also had an interest.

He was the founder and president of the Saugerties Bank. He served as postmaster of Saugerties from October 19, 1836, to January 25, 1841. Russell was a member of the New York State Assembly (Ulster Co., 1st D.) in 1851.

Congress

Russell was elected as a Democrat to the 35th United States Congress, holding office from March 4, 1857, to March 3, 1859.

Later career

He was appointed as Naval Officer of the Port of New York City in 1859, and he served until 1861. (U.S. ports were run by three political appointees—the collector, naval officer (or navy agent) and surveyor. These individuals were responsible for assessing customs duties on incoming cargo and ensuring payment to the Department of the Treasury. Because they were paid a percentage of duties collected as well as a portion of the fines levied for attempting to evade customs, and because employees of the customs houses were political party loyalists who were expected to contribute to their party, the collector, naval officer and surveyor positions were sought after political plums.)

After leaving the Naval Officer's post Russell returned to his banking business.

Death and burial

He died in Saugerties, New York on April 29, 1896. He was interred in Mountain View Cemetery.

Sources

• United States Congress. "William Fiero Russell (id: R000542)". Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.

 This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress