Black was elected as a Whig to the Twenty-seventh Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Charles Ogle. The election was held on Tuesday, June 8, 1841.[6] The vote for Black was approximately 2,703 with the opposition (party not named) getting 1,320 votes (Black receiving a majority of 1,383 more votes).[7] The Daily Atlas lists the opposition candidate's name as "Pilson".[7] (However, the same newspaper listed a "Mr. Philson of Somerset" as the opponent in the special election to replace Black after his death.[8])
Death
Black served in the House of Representatives until his death at his residence in Somerset in 1841. The cause of death was apoplexy.[9]
On Thursday, December 9, 1841, his colleague Representative Joseph Lawrence took to the House floor to announce Black's death and provide a eulogy. Lawrence stated that Black was well liked by anyone who came into contact with him. Lawrence indicated that Black was his childhood friend. Lawrence also stated that Black had been in good health the day before his death. Lawrence then submitted a resolution that crepe should be worn in honor of Black's death. The resolution was adopted.[10][11]
According to the Philadelphia U.S. Gazette (reprinted in the Easton Gazette), he was virtuous and well liked.[9]
