Representative Galusha Aaron Grow

Galusha Aaron Grow served as a Representative from Pennsylvania in the United States Congress from 1851 to 1903. A member of the Republican Party, Galusha Aaron Grow contributed to the legislative process during 11 terms in office.

Galusha Aaron Grow’s service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history. As a member of the House of Representatives, Galusha Aaron Grow participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of constituents.

Galusha Aaron Grow (August 31, 1823 – March 31, 1907) was the 24th speaker of the United States House of Representatives, serving from 1861 to 1863. Elected as a Democrat in the 1850 congressional elections, he switched to the newly organized Republican Party in the mid-1850s when the Democratic Party tried to force the extension of slavery into western territories. Elected speaker for the 37th Congress, Grow presided over the House during the initial years of the American Civil War. During his tenure Congress passed the landmark Homestead Act of 1862, which he supported. Grow was defeated for reelection in 1862. For over a century he remained the last incumbent House speaker to be defeated, until Speaker Tom Foley lost his seat in 1994. After leaving office he continued to speak out on political issues, but did not serve in elective office. Then, 31 years after leaving office, Grow won an 1894 special election to succeed William Lilly. It remains one of the longest known interregnums between terms of service for a House member. Over the course of his career, Grow represented the people of three Pennsylvania congressional districts: the 12th district (1851–1853), 14th district (1853–1863), and Pennsylvania’s at-large congressional district (1894–1903).