Back to former New York governors
John Thompson Hoffman
New York

Gov. John Thompson Hoffman

  • January 1, 1869 - January 1, 1873
  • Democratic
  • January 10, 1828
  • March 24, 1888
  • New York
  • Union College
  • Married Ella Starkweather

About

JOHN T. HOFFMAN, the twenty-sixth governor of New York, was born in Ossining, New York on January 10, 1828. His education was attained at Union College, where he graduated in 1846. He went on to study law, and then established his legal career in New York City. Hoffman first entered politics in 1848, serving as a member of the New York State Democratic Central Committee. He also was affiliated with the Tammany organization for a number of years; was the recorder of New York City from 1860 to 1864; and served as mayor of New York City from 1865 to 1868. Hoffman next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote on November 3, 1868. He was reelected to a second term in 1870. During his tenure, Syracuse University was established; and a new state capitol was planned. After completing his term, Hoffman retired from political life. Governor John T. Hoffman passed away in Wiesbaden, Germany, and was buried in the Dale Cemetery in Ossining, New York.

Source

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.

Virtual American Biographies

All-Biographies

The Political Graveyard

Recent New York Governors