Silas TALBOT, Congress, NY (1751-1813)

TALBOT, Silas, a Representative from New York; born in Dighton, Bristol County, Mass., January 11, 1751; completed preparatory studies; went to sea on a coasting vessel; engaged in mercantile pursuits in Providence, R.I.; lieutenant and captain in the Revolutionary Army; promoted to the rank of major October 10, 1777, and to lieutenant colonel October 29, 1778; commissioned captain in the Continental Navy September 17, 1779; captured by the British in November 1780 and imprisoned in England until 1781, when he was exchanged and sent to Cherbourg, France; returned to America and resided in Philadelphia, Pa.; moved to Albany, N.Y., and engaged in agricultural pursuits; member of the state assembly in 1792 and 1793; elected as a Pro-Administration candidate to the Third Congress (March 4, 1793-March 3, 1795); again commissioned by President Adams, May 11, 1798, a captain in the United States Navy; resigned September 21, 1801; died in New York City on June 30, 1813; interment in Trinity Churchyard.

Bibliography

Fowler, William M. Silas Talbot: Captain of Old Ironsides. Mystic, Conn.: Mystic Seaport Museum, 1995.

Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present