John W. Hall

John Woodhall ( born January 1, 1817 in Frederica, Delaware, † January 23, 1893 ) was an American politician and 1879-1883 Governor of the State of Delaware.

Early years and political rise

After the early death of his parents John Hall grew up as an orphan. Later he worked in a candy store. He saved up so much money that he could buy up the business and extend its trade to the grocery and the timber trade. He also managed to bring the transport of goods under its control by became one of the largest shipowners in Delaware. His ships were operating worldwide. Between 1861 and 1883 he was also director of the Farmer's Bank. He had also held during his later governorship this office.

John Hall was a member of the Democratic Party. Between 1867 and 1871 he was a member of the Senate from Delaware. In 1876 he was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, in 1878, he was elected as a candidate of his party overwhelmingly for governor of his state.

Governor of Delaware

On January 21, 1879 John Hall could begin his four -year term. During this time, the legal requirements were created which allowed the governor to appoint an insurance commissioner. The sale of margarine was regulated by law. At that time, the Democratic Party was aligned very conservative and sometimes reactionary.

Further CV

After the end of his governorship on January 16, 1883, John Hall withdrew for a time from politics and devoted himself to his extensive private business. In 1890 he returned again as a state senator back on the political stage. This mandate he held until his death. John Hall was married to Caroline Warren, with whom he had four children.