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Edward P. Knowles

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Edward Peck Knowles
Engraving from the book "The Providence Plantations for 250 Years", 1886.
5th Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island
In office
June 1854 – June 1855
Preceded byWalter R. Danforth
Succeeded byJames Y. Smith
Personal details
Born(1805-04-13)April 13, 1805
Providence, Rhode Island
DiedOctober 16, 1881(1881-10-16) (aged 76)
Resting placeSwan Point Cemetery
Political partyWhig
Known forMayor of Providence, Rhode Island

Edward Peck Knowles (April 13, 1805 – October 16, 1881): Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, for one term, 1854–1855.[1]

Early life

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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

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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 of Providence, president of the Butler Insurance Company, and president of the Mechanics Association.[2]

Political career

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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

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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

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  1. ^ a b c d Biographical Cyclopedia of Representative Men of Rhode Island. National biographical publishing co. 1881. p. 312. Retrieved 4 February 2015.
  2. ^ a b c Welcome Arnold Greene (1886). Providence Plantations for 250 Years. J.A. & R.A. Reid. p. 104.
  3. ^ a b c "Mayors of the City of Providence". Retrieved 6 February 2015.
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Political offices
Preceded by Mayor of Providence
1854-1855
Succeeded by