Governor William Badger

WILLIAM BADGER, the twenty-third governor of New Hampshire, was born in Gilmanton, New Hampshire on January 13, 1779. His education was attained in an academy in Gilmanton. Before embarking into politics, Badger established a successful business career. He was instrumental in building several mills, as well as a factory in his hometown. Badger first entered politics as trustee of Gilmanton Academy, a position he was elected to in 1804, and from which he later served as chairman of the board. From 1805 to 1812 he was an aide to Governor John Langdon; and from 1810 to 1812 he served as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives. Badger served as a member of the New Hampshire State Senate from 1814 to 1817; was senate president from 1816 to 1817; and served on the common pleas court bench from 1816 to 1820. He also served as the Strafford County high sheriff from 1820 to 1830; and was a presidential elector in 1824, 1836 and 1844. Badger next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in 1834. He was reelected to a second term in 1835. During his tenure, legislation was sanctioned that facilitated smallpox prevention; improvements to the state militia were lobbied for; and penal reforms were endorsed. After completing his term, Badger retired from political life. Governor William Badger passed away in Gilmanton on September 21, 1852.