Representative Nicoll Fosdick

Nicoll Fosdick (November 9, 1785, in New London, New London County, Connecticut – May 7, 1868, in New London, Connecticut) was an American merchant and politician from New York who served one term in the United States Congress as a member of the Adams Party. Born into a New London family, he was the son of Nicoll Fosdick (1750–1821) and Abigail (Eldredge) Fosdick (1761–1809). He completed preparatory studies in his youth, receiving the basic education customary for a young man entering commerce and public life in the early nineteenth century.

After his early years in Connecticut, Fosdick removed to Norway, in Herkimer County, New York, where he engaged in mercantile pursuits. Establishing himself as a merchant, he became part of the growing commercial life of upstate New York during the post-Revolutionary period, a time when expanding trade and settlement were reshaping the region. His success and standing in business provided a foundation for his entry into public affairs and helped to connect him with the emerging political leadership of the state.

Fosdick’s political career began at the state and national electoral levels. In 1816 he served as a presidential elector, casting his votes for James Monroe for President and Daniel D. Tompkins for Vice President, aligning himself with the national Republican leadership that would soon evolve into the Adams wing of the party. He subsequently served as a member of the New York State Assembly in 1818 and 1819, participating in the legislative work of the state during a period of institutional growth and internal improvement. His service in the Assembly reflected his rising prominence in New York politics and his commitment to representing the interests of his community.

Building on his state-level experience, Fosdick was elected as an Adams man to the 19th United States Congress, representing New York. He held office from March 4, 1825, to March 3, 1827. As a member of the Adams Party representing New York, Nicoll Fosdick contributed to the legislative process during one term in office. His service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history, coinciding with the administration of President John Quincy Adams, when debates over internal improvements, tariffs, and the evolving party system were central to national politics. In this context, he participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of his constituents in the House of Representatives.

After completing his term in Congress, Fosdick returned to private life and continued his association with commerce and public service. In 1843 he returned to his native New London, Connecticut, reestablishing his residence in the community where he had been born. His return marked a late-career shift back to his original home state, while maintaining the stature he had gained through his business and political activities in New York.

In New London, Fosdick remained engaged in public affairs. From 1849 to 1853 he served as Collector of Customs at the Port of New London, a federal appointment that placed him in charge of overseeing customs duties and maritime regulations at an important coastal port. This position reflected the continued trust placed in him by federal authorities and underscored his long-standing connection to maritime commerce and trade.

Nicoll Fosdick died in New London, Connecticut, on May 7, 1868. He was buried at Cedar Grove Cemetery in New London. His life spanned from the early years of the new republic through the Civil War era, and his career as a merchant, state legislator, presidential elector, member of Congress, and customs official illustrates the intertwined nature of commerce and politics in the development of the United States during the first half of the nineteenth century.