Schuyler Colfax
Schuyler (pronounced "Sky-ler") Colfax, Jr. (March 23, 1823 – January 13, 1885) was a U.S. representative from Indiana, the 29th speaker of the House of Representatives, and the 17th vice president of the United States.
Schuyler Colfax | |
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17th Vice President of the United States | |
In office March 4, 1869 – March 4, 1873 | |
President | Ulysses S. Grant |
Preceded by | Andrew Johnson |
Succeeded by | Henry Wilson |
29th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives | |
In office December 7, 1863 – March 3, 1869 | |
President | Abraham Lincoln Andrew Johnson |
Preceded by | Galusha A. Grow |
Succeeded by | Theodore M. Pomeroy |
Member of U.S. House of Representatives from Indiana's 9th district | |
In office March 4, 1855 – March 3, 1869 | |
Preceded by | Norman Eddy |
Succeeded by | John P. C. Shanks |
Personal details | |
Born | New York City, New York | March 23, 1823
Died | January 13, 1885 Mankato, Minnesota | (aged 61)
Political party | Republican |
Spouse(s) | Evelyn Clark Colfax Ellen Maria Wade Colfax |
Legacy
The towns of Colfax, California, Colfax, Washington, and Colfax, Louisiana, are named for Schuyler Colfax. The "Jewel of the Midwest," Schuyler, Nebraska, named after Colfax, is the county seat of Colfax County, Nebraska. The now ghost town of Colfax, Colorado was named after him. Colfax County, New Mexico is named after the Speaker as well. In addition, the "main street" traversing Aurora, Denver, and Lakewood, Colorado and abutting the Colorado State Capitol is named "Colfax Avenue" in the politician's honor. The middle school Schuyler Colfax in Wayne, New Jersey is also named after him.