John Stilwell Applegate

John Stilwell Applegate (August 6, 1837 – November 10, 1916) was an American politician, lawyer and writer. He served in the New Jersey Senate, representing Monmouth County. He also served as the chief commissioner (mayor) of Red Bank, New Jersey.

Early life John Stilwell Applegate was born on August 6, 1837, on the family farm at Nutswamp, Middletown Township, New Jersey, to Ann (née Gray) and Joseph Stilwell Applegate. His father was a farmer and a store owner. Applegate attended the district school at Nutswamp.

Career Applegate began practicing law in Red Bank, New Jersey.

During the American Civil War, Applegate was commissioned as a special deputy of the Union League for Monmouth County. In 1872, Applegate became president of the Red Bank Gas Light Company. He also drafted a bill allowing smaller towns and villages in New Jersey to construct and maintain their own water works.

Personal life and death Applegate married Deborah Catharine Allen of Red Bank, daughter of Charles Gordon Allen, in 1865. Together, they had three children: Annie, Katharine and John Stilwell Applegate Jr.

Applegate died on November 10, 1916, at his home in Red Bank. He was buried at the family plot at Fair View Cemetery in Middletown.

Awards Applegate received an honorary Bachelor of Laws degree from Colgate University in 1904.