Washburn, Peter T. (Peter Thacher), 1814-1870

Peter T. Washburn, son of Reuben and Hannah B. (Thacher) Washburn, was born on September 7, 1814 in Lynn, Massachusetts. His family moved to Vermont in 1817 and settled in Ludlow, Vermont in 1825. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1835 and then studied law under his father. In 1838 he was admitted to the bar and began to practice law in Ludlow. In 1844 he moved his practice to Woodstock and formed a partnership with Charles P. Marsh until his death in 1870.

Peter T. Washburn also became involved in politics. He represented Woodstock in the 1853 and 1854 legislatures. Previously in 1844, he was elected reporter of the decisions of the Supreme Court of Vermont and held the position for eight years. In 1861 he was elected adjutant and inspector-general of Vermont. His political career culminated with being elected governor in 1869, but he died in office on February 7, 1870.

Peter T. Washburn was twice married, first to Almira E. Ferris of Swanton, VT and second to Almira P. Hopkins of Glens Falls, NY. Two children by his first wife died young, and he had three more children with his second wife who survived his decease.