Massachusetts Governor. The son of Congressman Oakes Ames, he attended Brown University before joining the family business. The successful Oakes factory was the primary supplier of shovels for American railroad construction and gold mining, enabling the family to become active in other businesses, with Oliver becoming an executive or director of several banks and railroads. He also served as an officer in the state militia. Turning to politics as a Republican, he was a State Senator and Lieutenant Governor between 1881 until 1887. He was then elected Governor, serving from 1887 to 1890. His administration was noted for defeat of a Prohibition law and advocacy of banking reforms and increased spending for public education.
Massachusetts Governor. The son of Congressman Oakes Ames, he attended Brown University before joining the family business. The successful Oakes factory was the primary supplier of shovels for American railroad construction and gold mining, enabling the family to become active in other businesses, with Oliver becoming an executive or director of several banks and railroads. He also served as an officer in the state militia. Turning to politics as a Republican, he was a State Senator and Lieutenant Governor between 1881 until 1887. He was then elected Governor, serving from 1887 to 1890. His administration was noted for defeat of a Prohibition law and advocacy of banking reforms and increased spending for public education.
Bio by: Bill McKern
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