Representative Francis Ford Patterson

Francis Ford Patterson Jr. (July 30, 1867 – November 30, 1935) was an American Republican Party politician who represented New Jersey’s 1st congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 1920 to 1927. A member of the Republican Party, Francis Ford Patterson served as a Representative from New Jersey in the United States Congress from 1919 to 1927, contributing to the legislative process during four terms in office. His service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history, and as a member of the House of Representatives he participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of his constituents.

Patterson was born on July 30, 1867, in Newark, New Jersey, the son of Abigail Derrickson (Null) and Francis Ford Patterson. In 1874 he moved with his parents to Woodbury, New Jersey, where he attended the public schools. At the age of thirteen he was employed in a newspaper office, beginning a lifelong association with journalism and publishing. In 1882 he moved to Camden, New Jersey, a relocation that would shape his subsequent career in business and politics.

Building on his early experience in the newspaper trade, Patterson became connected with the Camden Courier from 1883 to 1890. He advanced rapidly in the field, serving as editor of The Philadelphia Record from 1890 to 1894. In 1894 he became owner and publisher of the Camden Post-Telegram, a position he held until 1923. His prominence in local journalism paralleled a growing role in finance: he served as president of the West Jersey Trust Company from 1916 to 1925 and as a director of the West Jersey Title Company from 1920 to 1925. These business and financial roles enhanced his standing in Camden and the surrounding region and provided a platform for his entry into elective office.

Patterson’s political career began at the state and county level. He served as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly in 1900, representing his district in the state legislature. That same year he was elected county clerk of Camden County, a post he held from 1900 to 1920. Over two decades as county clerk, he became a well-known Republican figure in southern New Jersey. His influence within the party was further demonstrated by his selection as a delegate to the 1920 Republican National Convention, which nominated Warren G. Harding for the presidency.

Patterson entered national politics later that year. He was elected as a Republican to the Sixty-sixth Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Representative William J. Browning. He was subsequently reelected to the Sixty-seventh, Sixty-eighth, and Sixty-ninth Congresses, serving from November 2, 1920, to March 3, 1927. During this period he represented New Jersey’s 1st congressional district and took part in the legislative work of the House during the early 1920s, a time marked by post–World War I adjustment, economic change, and the beginning of Prohibition. Although he completed four consecutive terms, he was an unsuccessful candidate for renomination in 1926, which brought his congressional service to a close.

After leaving Congress, Patterson returned to private life and focused on banking and financial affairs. He served as president of the West Jersey Parkside Trust Company of Camden, continuing his long association with regional financial institutions. He remained active in business until his death, maintaining his residence in Merchantville, New Jersey.

Francis Ford Patterson Jr. died at his home in Merchantville on November 30, 1935. He was interred in Colestown Cemetery, in what is now Cherry Hill, New Jersey. His family’s public profile continued into later generations; his great-grandson is the actor Scott Patterson.