Erastus Fairbanks rallied Vermont in defense of the Union

Grand Old Partisan honors Erastus Fairbanks, born October 28th 1792. His family business manufactured stoves, plows, scales and other implements. The company became Vermont’s largest employer. He also led projects that established a railroad and a canal.

Fairbanks served in the state house and cast electoral votes for Whig nominees Henry Clay and Zachary Taylor. In 1851, he won the first of two one-year terms as governor. This prominent anti-slavery activist co-founded the VTGOP and was delegate to the 1856 Republican National Convention. He was again elected governor on eve of the Civil War. His inaugural address outlined Republican good sense:

"In the matter of expenditures I recommend the same scrupulous regard to economy which has generally characterized the legislation and the administration of this State, and the avoidance of all measures tending, unnecessarily, to the accumulation of a permanent public debt. Such economy need not degenerate into parsimony, but is consistent with reasonable appropriations for objects of public utility, and the usual provisions for educational and charitable purposes."

Day after rebels attacked Fort Sumter, Fairbanks called the legislature into special session to mobilize his state to save the Union "at whatever the cost of men and treasure. In this patriotic enthusiasm, Vermont eminently participates. Her citizens, always loyal to the union will in this hour of peril, will rally for the protection of the government and the constitution."

Legislators responded to this appeal by appropriating one million dollars (a huge sum back then), placing it "only as his judgment might deem prudent and best." Fairbanks sent a telegram to President Abraham Lincoln: "Vermont will do its full duty."

His son Franklin oversaw military recruitment during the Civil War and became speaker of the state house. His son Horace was also elected Governor of Vermont.

https://grandoldpartisan.typepad.com/blog/2024/10/erastus-fairbanks.html

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