William Henry Gleason

William Henry Gleason ( born June 28, 1829 in New York; † November 9, 1902 in Eau Gallie, Florida ) was an American politician. Between 1868 and 1870 he was Deputy Governor of the State of Florida.

Career

William Gleason grew up in New York State. He became a lawyer and worked in the banking industry. In 1855 he opened in Eau Claire (Wisconsin ) a bank. He was also involved in the construction of this place. During the Civil War he was engaged in trade. In 1865 he was appointed by the Freeman's Bureau as Special Representative for the State of Florida. He should explore the area in terms of whether it would be suitable for a colony of former African-American slaves. Gleason himself was against this plan, which was not realized. In his explorations in Florida, he realized that in the field of big business potential put, which he exploited for themselves. He brought his family to this country and began working in the real estate industry. At the same time he suggested during the reconstruction time as a member of the Republican Party launched a political career.

In 1868, Gleason was elected to the side of Harrison Reed to the Lieutenant Governor of Florida. This post he held 1868-1870. Yet he was Deputy Governor and Chairman of the State Senate. During a failed impeachment of the Governor, he sparked a controversy because he declared himself acting governor. In the sources there are different information about whether he then had to relinquish his position as vice-governor on December 14, 1868 or this has further exercised until 1870.

After the end of his term as Lieutenant Governor William Gleason remained in Florida. He was involved in various business projects. In June 1872, he participated as a delegate to the Republican National Convention, was nominated to the President Ulysses S. Grant for re-election. Eight years later, he was an alternate delegate to the Republican convention. Between 1871 and 1875 he was a delegate in the House of Representatives from Florida. He died on November 9, 1902 in Eau Gallie, that is a suburb of the city of Melbourne today.