US Congressman. He moved to Florida Territory in 1826, studied law, and became an attorney in St. Augustine. He served in the Territorial Legislature and in other offices, including Register of Florida's federal Land Office. He was also a Colonel in the militia and saw action during the Seminole War in 1836. A Whig in politics, in 1836 he was elected as Florida Territory's non-voting Delegate to the US House of Representatives and served two terms, 1837 to 1841. He died a few months after his second term expired, probably from yellow fever, since Florida was experiencing an epidemic of the disease at the time.
US Congressman. He moved to Florida Territory in 1826, studied law, and became an attorney in St. Augustine. He served in the Territorial Legislature and in other offices, including Register of Florida's federal Land Office. He was also a Colonel in the militia and saw action during the Seminole War in 1836. A Whig in politics, in 1836 he was elected as Florida Territory's non-voting Delegate to the US House of Representatives and served two terms, 1837 to 1841. He died a few months after his second term expired, probably from yellow fever, since Florida was experiencing an epidemic of the disease at the time.
Bio by: Bill McKern
Inscription
Charles Downing, who depart'd this life Nov. 24, 1841, in the 45th year of his age. A native of Virginia, he removed to Florida and early became identified with the prosperity of the Territory. He frequently served in the Territorial Legislature and was twice elected to the Congress of the United States. Ardent, bold, and generous to a fault, he was beloved in life and died universally regretted.
Gravesite Details
A marble slab on a raised coquina foundation.
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