Richard Williams

Richard Williams (November 15, 1836 – June 19, 1914) was an American lawyer and politician in the state of Oregon. A native of Ohio, he moved to Oregon in 1851 where he became an attorney. A Republican, he was the United States Congressman representing Oregon's at large congressional district for one term from 1877 to 1879.

Early life Williams was born in Findlay, Ohio to Elijah Williams. In Ohio he attended the public schools before the family moved to Oregon in 1851 over the Oregon Trail.

Richard Williams then moved to San Francisco, California in 1857 and began practicing law. He ran again in 1876, and was elected, defeating incumbent Lafayette Lane, though the election was contested by Samuel McDowell. Williams prevailed and served one term from 1877 to 1879.

Later years After his one term in Congress, Williams resumed his law practice in Portland and served on the Portland School Board for 20 years beginning in 1890. Williams partnered with Willis a second time for one year in 1885 before practicing law with his brother E. B. Williams.