Edward D. Hamilton

Edward D. Hamilton (October 3, 1801 – December 10 or 12, 1883) was an American attorney, military officer, and politician in what became the state of Oregon. A native of Virginia, he lived in Ohio before fighting in the Mexican-American War. A member of the Whig Party, he served as Secretary for the Oregon Territory in the 1850s. Later he practiced law and was a judge in Portland.

Early life Hamilton was born in Culpeper County, Virginia, on October 3, 1801. He received his education in Virginia and later studied law and was accepted into the bar in that state.

In 1830, Hamilton married Katherine Royer in Ohio, with one daughter the result of the marriage. In 1848, Taylor was elected as President of the United States.

Political career In 1850, President Taylor appointed the fellow Whig Party politician Hamilton to the position of Secretary of the Oregon Territory. The position had been turned down by Abraham Lincoln. Hamilton replaced Democrat Kintzing Prichette, taking office on September 18, 1850. Those opposed to the move invoked the one subject rule of the laws governing the territory, claiming that the law passed moving the seat of government contained more than one subject and was invalid. From 1858 to 1862 he served as judge for Multnomah County, where Portland is located, the first judge after statehood. He then served as county clerk. Edward D. Hamilton died on either December 10, or 12, 1883, at the age of 82.