Joseph Ridgway, Sr.

U.S. Congressman. A native of Staten Island, New York, he worked as a carpenter and plow manufacturer before moving to Columbus, Ohio in 1822. He founded the Ridgway Iron Foundry, which specialized in the production of plows and was considered as the first successful manufacturing establishment in Columbus. He was a member of the Ohio Legislature from 1828 to 1832. Elected as a Whig to represent Ohio's 8th District in the United States House of Representatives, he served from 1837 to 1843. He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1842. He was also a member of the Columbus City Council and a bank director. (bio by: K Guy)