William J. Browning

William John Browning (April 11, 1850 – March 24, 1920) was an American merchant and Republican Party politician who represented New Jersey's 1st congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 1911 until his death.

Early life and education William John Browning was born on April 11, 1850 in Camden, New Jersey to William Hinchman and Mary Cooper (née Boroughs) Browning. His parents were Quakers, and he was educated at Friends' Central High School in Philadelphia.

Business career After finishing his education, Browning joined the dry goods firm of Davis Kempton & Company at the age of fifteen. He eventually rose to become a partner of the firm and worked there for over thirty years.

Browning served in the National Guard for twenty years, retiring with a rank of major. Browning was a member of the Young Men's Christian Association of Camden, the Gloucester County Historical Society, the Camden Board of Trade, the Union League of Philadelphia, the New Jersey Society of Pennsylvania, the Freemasons, the Knights Templar, the Shriners, and the Elks.

Death and burial Browning died in the Capitol Building, Washington, D.C. on March 24, 1920. He was interred in Harleigh Cemetery.