Thomas Wheeler Williams, US Congressman

Thomas Wheeler Williams (September 28, 1789 – December 31, 1874) was a U.S. Representative from Connecticut. Born in Stonington, Connecticut,

Williams attended the public schools. At the age of fifteen was employed as a clerk in New York City, and before he was twenty-one was employed on a business mission to Norway, Sweden, and Russia. For about eight years was engaged in the shipping business. He moved to New London, Connecticut, in 1818 and became a prominent figure in the whaling business.

Williams was elected as a Whig to the Twenty-sixth and Twenty-seventh Congresses (March 4, 1839 – March 3, 1843). He served as chairman of the Committee on Mileage (Twenty-sixth and Twenty-seventh Congresses). He served as member of the State house of representatives in 1846 and 1847. He served as president of the New London, Willamantic and Palmer Railroad (later the New London Northern Railroad) in 1847 and for many years thereafter. He died in New London, Connecticut, December 31, 1874. He was interred in Cedar Grove Cemetery.

source: Wikipedia

In the decadence of general business consequent on the war and the disordered state of affairs in Europe, Mr. Williams sought to revive and develop the whaling interest, in which some faint attempt had been hitherto made. His energy and tenacity of purpose led to the establishment of this business on the firm basis which added largely to the growth and prosperity of New London, and though, under the operation of natural laws, the business has declined and is now fading out, it yet served its purpose well for the time, and justified the sagacity and comprehension of the man who saw and utilized its possibilities so well for his town and himself.

In 1838 he was elected member of Congress for this District, and served with ability for two consecutive terms, then withdrawing on his own decision from further official connection with political life. He was one of the promoters of the N. L. & W. R. R.( and for many years its first president and strongest supporter. Largely interested in all good works, public or otherwise, which aimed at progress and improvement, he led many and aided all efforts that commended themselves to his judgment as beneficial to the city and State in which he lived. His political convictions were strongly Whig and Republican, and among his personal friends were numbered the best men of the old party and its worthy successor. Integrity of thought and action, with broad liberal views, based on strong Christian principle, marked his life, and a powerful will, united with energetic determination, emphasized his characteristics. Earnest and truthful, his life was never idle or useless, and he died honored and respected, Dec. 31, 1874.

History of New London County, Connecticut, With Biographical Sketches of Many of Its Pioneers and Prominent Men, p. 236-7