Thomas H. Carter

Thos_Henry_Carter

Thomas H. Carter (October 30, 1854 – September 17, 1911) was an American politician and lawyer from Montana. He served as a United States Senator and was a member of the Republican Party. Carter was also notable for his role as the first Catholic to be elected to the United States Senate from Montana.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Henry Carter was born in Junior, West Virginia. He attended local schools and later moved to Illinois where he continued his education. Carter studied law and was admitted to the bar, beginning his practice in Burlington, Iowa.

Political Career

Carter moved to Helena, Montana Territory in 1882. He quickly became involved in local politics and was elected as a delegate to the United States House of Representatives from the Montana Territory, serving from 1889 to 1891. After Montana achieved statehood, Carter was elected as one of its first two Senators, serving from 1895 to 1901 and again from 1905 to 1911.

United States Senate

During his tenure in the Senate, Carter was known for his work on land and resource management issues. He was instrumental in the passage of the Forest Reserve Act of 1891, which allowed the President to set aside forest reserves from the land in the public domain. Carter also played a significant role in the establishment of the National Forest Service.

Other Roles

In addition to his senatorial duties, Carter served as the Chairman of the Republican National Committee from 1892 to 1896. He was also appointed as the Commissioner of the General Land Office by President Benjamin Harrison.

Personal Life

Carter married Ellen L. Galen in 1881, and the couple had five children. He was a devout Catholic and was actively involved in the church throughout his life.

Death and Legacy

Thomas H. Carter died on September 17, 1911, in Washington, D.C.. He is buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Carter's contributions to land management and his role in the early political landscape of Montana are remembered as significant aspects of his legacy.

Related Pages

• United States Senate
• Republican Party (United States)
• Forest Reserve Act of 1891
• National Forest Service
• General Land Office
• Helena, Montana
• Mount Olivet Cemetery (Washington, D.C.)

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