Edward P. Knowles
| Edward Peck Knowles | |
|---|---|
 Engraving from the book "The Providence Plantations for 250 Years", 1886. | |
| 8th Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island | |
|
In office June 1854 – June 1855 | |
| Preceded by | Walter R. Danforth |
| Succeeded by | James Y. Smith |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
April 13, 1805 Providence, Rhode Island |
| Died | October 16, 1881 (aged 76) |
| Resting place | Swan Point Cemetery |
| Political party | Whig |
| Known for | Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island |
Edward Peck Knowles (1805–1881): Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island for one term, 1854–1855.[1]
Early life
Edward Knowles was born April 13, 1805 in Providence, Rhode Island. His schooling opportunities have been described as "limited".[2][3] In his youth he worked in a wool factory.[1]
Business career
Knowles was involved in several businesses. He sold jewelry, including clocks and watches, until 1842.[1] Later, he became director of the Fifth National Bank, president of the Butler Insurance Company, and president of the Mechanics Association.[2]
Political career
He held a number of local offices including common council, alderman, school committee, and General Assembly. He was appointed acting mayor several times,[3] and finally mayor in 1854. As mayor he took an active part in suppressing the Dorr Rebellion.[2] His main political interests appear to be his support of education, particularly evening schools, and temperance.[3]
Personal life
Knowles was widowed several times and had a total of three wives. He married Mary F. Fry in 1827; Alice S. Randall in 1860; and Elizabeth H. Crowell in 1872.[1]
References
- 1 2 3 4 Biographical Cyclopedia of Representative Men of Rhode Island. National biographical publishing co. 1881. p. 312. Retrieved 4 February 2015.
- 1 2 3 Welcome Arnold Greene (1886). Providence Plantations for 250 Years. J.A. & R.A. Reid. p. 104.
- 1 2 3 "Mayors of the City of Providence". Retrieved 6 February 2015.
External links
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Walter R. Danforth |
Mayor of Providence 1854-1855 |
Succeeded by James Y. Smith |
