Leonard Wilcox


Leonard Wilcox was an American lawyer, judge and politician. He served as a United States Senator from New Hampshire, as judge of the New Hampshire Superior Court, and as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives during the 1800s.

Early life

Born in Hanover, New Hampshire, Wilcox was the son of Jeduthun Wilcox and Sarah Wilcox. His father was a United States Representative from New Hampshire during the 13th and 14th United States Congresses.
He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1817 and was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society. After graduation, he studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1820. He began the practice of law in Orford in Grafton County.

Career

He served as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives from 1828-1834, was judge of the New Hampshire Superior Court from 1838-1840, and as bank commissioner from 1838-1842. Appointed by Governor Page as a Democrat to the United States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Franklin Pierce, Wilcox was subsequently elected and served from March 1, 1842 to March 3, 1843. After leaving the Senate, he resumed the practice of law.
He served as judge of the Court of Common Pleas from 1847-1848, and was again appointed judge of the superior court in 1848, serving until his death.

Death

Wilcox died in Orford, Grafton County, New Hampshire, on June 18, 1850. He is interred at West Congregational Churchyard in Orford, New Hampshire.

Personal life

On September 12, 1819, he married Almira Morey, daughter of inventor Samuel Morey. Following Almira's death, Wilcox married Mary Mann on October 10, 1833. He had children from both marriages.