Edward P. Knowles

Edward Peck Knowles
Engraving from the book "The Providence Plantations for 250 Years", 1886.
5th Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island
In office
June 1854 – June 1855
Preceded byWalter R. Danforth
Succeeded byJames Y. Smith
Personal details
Born(1805-04-13)April 13, 1805
Providence, Rhode Island
DiedOctober 16, 1881(1881-10-16) (aged 76)
Resting placeSwan Point Cemetery
Political partyWhig
Known forMayor of Providence, Rhode Island

Edward Peck Knowles (April 13, 1805 – October 16, 1881): Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, for one term, 1854–1855.[1]

Early life

Edward Knowles was born April 13, 1805, in Providence, Rhode Island. His schooling opportunities have been described as "limited".[2][3] In his youth he worked in a wool factory.[1]

Business career

Knowles was involved in several businesses. He sold jewelry, including clocks and watches, until 1842.[1] Later, he became director of the Fifth National Bank of Providence, president of the Butler Insurance Company, and president of the Mechanics Association.[2]

Political career

He held a number of local offices including common council, alderman, school committee, and General Assembly. He was appointed acting mayor several times,[3] and finally mayor in 1854. As mayor he took an active part in suppressing the Dorr Rebellion.[2] His main political interests appear to be his support of education, particularly evening schools, and temperance.[3]

Personal life

Knowles was widowed several times and had a total of three wives. He married Mary F. Fry in 1827; Alice S. Randall in 1860; and Elizabeth H. Crowell in 1872.[1]

References

  1. ^ a b c d Biographical Cyclopedia of Representative Men of Rhode Island. National biographical publishing co. 1881. p. 312. Retrieved 4 February 2015.
  2. ^ a b c Welcome Arnold Greene (1886). Providence Plantations for 250 Years. J.A. & R.A. Reid. p. 104.
  3. ^ a b c "Mayors of the City of Providence". Retrieved 6 February 2015.
Political offices
Preceded by Mayor of Providence
1854-1855 		Succeeded by