Marshall Jewell

Grand_Duke_Alexei_Alexandrovich_of_Russia

Marshall_Jewell_Monument_(Carl_Conrads,_sculptor),_Cedar_Hill_Cemetery,_Hartford,_CT_-_February_2016

Marshall Jewell (October 20, 1825 – February 10, 1883) was an American businessman, politician, and diplomat. He served as the 25th Governor of Connecticut, the United States Postmaster General, and the United States Minister to Russia.

Early Life and Career[edit | edit source]

Marshall Jewell was born in Winchester, New Hampshire. He was the son of Pliny Jewell, a successful tanner and leather manufacturer. Jewell received a limited formal education and began working in his father's tannery at a young age. He later moved to Hartford, Connecticut, where he established himself in the telegraph industry, eventually becoming the president of the New York and New England Railroad.

Political Career[edit | edit source]

Jewell's political career began in the Republican Party. He was elected as the Governor of Connecticut, serving from 1869 to 1870 and again from 1871 to 1873. During his tenure, he focused on modernizing the state's infrastructure and improving public education.

In 1874, President Ulysses S. Grant appointed Jewell as the United States Minister to Russia, a position he held until 1876. Upon his return, he was appointed as the United States Postmaster General, serving from 1874 to 1876. As Postmaster General, Jewell implemented significant reforms, including the introduction of the postal money order system and improvements in mail delivery efficiency.

Later Life and Legacy[edit | edit source]

After leaving public office, Jewell returned to his business interests in Hartford. He remained active in Republican politics and was a delegate to several national conventions. Jewell passed away on February 10, 1883, in Hartford, Connecticut.

Marshall Jewell is remembered for his contributions to both state and national politics, as well as his efforts to modernize the postal system in the United States.