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George F. Fort, the twenty-first governor of New Jersey, was born in Pemberton, New Jersey in May 1809. His education was attained at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a medical degree in 1830. After establishing his medical career in New Egypt, Fort entered into politics. He was a member of the 1844 State Constitutional Convention; and served as a member of the New Jersey State Senate from 1846 to 1850. Fort next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in 1850. During his tenure, funding for education was increased; a homestead exemption law was authorized; state roads were improved; and a ten-hour labor law was enacted. After completing his term, Fort secured an appointment to serve on the bench of the New Jersey Court of Errors and Appeals, a position he held from 1855 to 1862. He continued to stay active, resuming his duties in his medical practice, as well as serving as a trustee for the Bordentown Female College. Governor George F. Fort, who authored the Early History of Antiquities of Freemasonry, passed away on April 22, 1872. He was buried in the Methodist Cemetery in Pemberton, New Jersey.

*Date of birth is unknown

Sources:

Sobel, Robert, and John Raimo, eds. Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789-1978, Vol. 3, Westport, Conn.; Meckler Books, 1978. 4 vols.

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