Anson P. Morrill
Early Life
Anson Peaslee Morrill was born on June 10, 1803, in Belgrade, Maine. As one of the older children in a large family of 14, he spent his early years hunting, fishing, and trapping on the land. His education was sporadic, attending school when it was open and working for his father’s mill, which included a grist mill, carding machine, and saw mill, when it was not. Despite these humble beginnings, Anson’s reputation for honesty and integrity was established early on, earning him the trust of those around him.
Early Adulthood and Political Life
At the age of 21, Anson opened a mercantile store in Belgrade. A year later, he was appointed Postmaster of Dearborn, a position he held until 1841. He moved around a bit, living in Belgrade Hill, Madison, Mount Vernon, and Readfield. In Readfield, he took over the management of a woolen mill that was near financial ruin. He invested his life savings into it, and it became prosperous, allowing him to live comfortably for the rest of his life.
Adulthood and Politics
Anson held various political posts throughout his life. He was elected to the Maine State Legislature in 1834, served as sheriff of Somerset County for a term in 1839, and was elected to the State House from Madison in 1844. He was elected as the first Republican Governor of Maine in 1855, receiving 44% of the votes. He ran for Governor again in 1855 but the legislature chose Governor Wells. He was a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1856 and was elected to the US House of Representatives in 1860.
Later Business Life
After his political career, Anson went on to become the President of the board of Directors of the Maine Central Railroad Company from 1873 to 1875, and later served as its Vice President from 1876 to 1887.
Retirement
In 1879, Anson moved to Augusta, where he lived in retirement. However, even in his retirement, he was elected for the state legislature in 1881-1882, at the age of 77. He passed away in his Augusta residence on July 4, 1887, after suffering a short illness which involved paralysis.
Personal Life
Anson was a universalist who attended church regularly and financially supported it. He was known for his generosity, often helping out his friends in their business ventures, even if it meant suffering financial losses. He was known as a patient, understanding, forgiving, and charitable man, truly the whole package.
Anson Peaslee Morrill’s life is a testament to his dedication to his community, his state, and his country. His legacy lives on in the institutions he helped build and the values he upheld.
