Elijah Boardman: Statesman, Merchant, Founder
A Comprehensive Examination of a Pivotal Figure in Early American History
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Biographical Overview
A Distinguished Figure
Elijah Boardman (March 7, 1760 โ August 18, 1823) was a significant American politician and businessman, notably serving as a United States Senator from Connecticut. Born into a prominent and politically connected family in New Milford, Connecticut, Boardman's life spanned critical periods of early American development, from the Revolutionary War to the burgeoning nation's expansion.
Family and Upbringing
Born the third of four children to Deacon Sherman Boardman and Sarah Bostwick Boardman, Elijah hailed from a family deeply rooted in Connecticut's history. His father was a prosperous farmer and a respected figure in local politics, serving numerous terms in the Connecticut General Assembly. The Boardman family were considered the town's founding family, residing on a substantial farm along the Housatonic River. Elijah received his early education through private tutors at home, including instruction in Latin.
Personal Attributes
Biographical accounts suggest Elijah Boardman possessed a dignified and handsome appearance. His brother, David Sherman Boardman, noted his inclination towards "hilarity." These personal qualities, combined with his family's influence and his own developing acumen, laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in both commerce and public service.
Revolutionary War Service
Enlistment and Early Campaigns
At the young age of sixteen, in March 1776, Elijah Boardman enlisted in the Connecticut militia. He served as a common soldier in one of the regiments raised by the Continental Congress. His early service saw him directed towards Boston, and subsequently diverted to New London and New York City, where he participated in the Battle of Long Island. However, his military service was cut short by illness, exacerbated by childhood medical issues and fever, which confined him to bed.
Discharge and Continued Service
After six months of service, having attained the rank of sergeant, Boardman obtained passage home due to his poor health. He later rejoined the militia during the summer of 1777 in response to British movements near Fort Montgomery. This service concluded following General Burgoyne's surrender, leading to the militia's disbandment. He then resumed his tutelage under a family tutor, John Hickling, before embarking on his professional career.
Merchant and Entrepreneur
Establishing a Business
In 1781, Boardman commenced his career in mercantile pursuits, initially training as a shopkeeper in New Haven. He soon established his own dry-goods business in his hometown of New Milford, operating in partnership with his brothers David and Daniel. This venture marked the beginning of his significant success in commerce.
Western Expansion and Land Development
Boardman's business interests extended beyond Connecticut. He became a member of the Connecticut Land Company in September 1795, acquiring a stake in the Connecticut Western Reserve in what is now northern Ohio. This investment led to his involvement in the founding of two towns: Boardman, which bears his family name, and Medina. His land agent, Rufus Ferris Sr., became the first resident of Medina. Boardman and his brothers amassed considerable real estate holdings, positioning them among the prominent landed gentry of the post-Revolutionary era.
Artistic Patronage
Boardman's prosperity as a dry-goods merchant is notably captured in a 1789 portrait by the renowned artist Ralph Earl. The painting depicts Boardman in his New Milford store, with bolts of textiles visible, illustrating his livelihood. Earl's series of paintings featuring the Boardman family are considered among his most accomplished works, highlighting Boardman's status and the family's significance.
Path to Public Service
Early Political Engagements
Boardman's political career began with early engagements, including correspondence with President Thomas Jefferson in 1801. He served multiple terms in the Connecticut State House of Representatives (1803โ1805 and 1816), followed by service in the state's upper house (1817โ1819) and as a State Senator (1819โ1821). This progression demonstrated his growing influence and commitment to public affairs at the state level.
United States Senator
On March 4, 1821, while residing in Litchfield, Connecticut, Elijah Boardman was elected to the United States Senate. He represented Connecticut in the nation's capital, serving alongside colleagues such as James Lanman. His tenure in the Senate was marked by his presence at key proceedings, contributing to the legislative discourse of the era.
Gubernatorial Candidacy
Boardman was also a nominee for Governor of Connecticut by the Democratic-Republican Party. He ran for this office in the elections of 1812, 1813, 1814, and 1815, demonstrating his consistent engagement with the highest levels of state politics, though he was ultimately succeeded by Oliver Wolcott Jr.
Later Life and Legacy
Final Days and Passing
Senator Boardman continued his service in the U.S. Senate until his death on August 18, 1823. His passing occurred while he was visiting his son. Biographers suggest that his health had been compromised by recurring bouts of cholera and fever throughout his life, including during his military service and subsequent travels. His death prompted a motion in the Senate to observe a period of mourning, reflecting the respect he commanded among his peers.
Resting Place and Descendants
Elijah Boardman's remains were returned to his home state and interred in New Milford, Connecticut. He was survived by his sons, William Whiting Boardman, who also pursued a political career, and Henry Mason Boardman. His legacy extends to notable descendants, including his great-granddaughter, Mabel Thorp Boardman, a prominent American philanthropist.
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Educational Context
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