Representative Frederick Lansing

Frederick Lansing (February 16, 1838 – January 31, 1894) was a Republican U.S. Representative from New York who served one term in the United States Congress from 1889 to 1891. His congressional service took place during a significant period in American history, and he participated in the legislative and democratic processes as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the interests of his New York constituents.

Lansing was born on February 16, 1838, in Manheim, Herkimer County, New York. He received his early education at Little Falls Academy in Little Falls, New York, an institution that prepared many young men of the region for professional careers. After completing his studies there, he turned to the study of law, laying the foundation for a lifelong legal and public service career.

Lansing was admitted to the bar in 1859 and commenced the practice of law in Watertown, New York. His legal work in Watertown established him as a member of the professional community in Jefferson County and provided him with the experience and local standing that would later support his entry into public office. His early professional years were soon interrupted by the national crisis of the Civil War.

During the American Civil War, Lansing served in the Union Army in the Eighth New York Cavalry. Within that regiment he held the position of acting adjutant from June 23 to October 11, 1863, a role that involved important administrative and organizational responsibilities. His military service during this critical period in the nation’s history contributed to his public reputation and reflected his commitment to the Union cause.

Following the war, Lansing resumed his legal practice in Watertown and gradually entered state politics. He was elected as a member of the New York State Senate from the 21st District and served from 1882 to 1885. During this time he sat in the 105th, 106th, 107th, and 108th New York State Legislatures, participating in the formulation of state laws and policies and gaining legislative experience that would later inform his work in Congress.

Lansing was elected as a Republican to the Fifty-first United States Congress, holding office from March 4, 1889, to March 3, 1891. As a Representative from New York, he served one term in the U.S. House of Representatives, contributing to the legislative process during a period marked by debates over economic policy, veterans’ issues, and federal administration. In this capacity he took part in the democratic process at the national level, representing the interests and concerns of his constituents from New York.

After the conclusion of his congressional term in 1891, Lansing returned to private life in Watertown, where he continued to be identified with the legal and civic affairs of his community. He died in Watertown, New York, on January 31, 1894. Frederick Lansing was interred in Brookside Cemetery in Watertown, closing a career that spanned service as a lawyer, Civil War officer, state senator, and member of the United States House of Representatives.