New Jersey Governor. He earned a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania, in 1830 and established a medical career in New Egypt, New Jersey. Entering politics, he was a member of the New Jersey State Constitutional Convention in 1844 and served as a member of the New Jersey State Senate, (1846-50). In 1851, he was elected as a Republican the 16th Governor of New Jersey, serving until 1854. While he was office, funding for education was increased, a homestead exemption law was authorized, state roads were improved and a ten-hour labor law was enacted. After his term, he was appointed judge on the Court of Errors and Appeals, serving (1863-68), then resumed the practice of medicine until his death at age 62. His nephew, John Franklin Fort was also Governor of New Jersey.
New Jersey Governor. He earned a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania, in 1830 and established a medical career in New Egypt, New Jersey. Entering politics, he was a member of the New Jersey State Constitutional Convention in 1844 and served as a member of the New Jersey State Senate, (1846-50). In 1851, he was elected as a Republican the 16th Governor of New Jersey, serving until 1854. While he was office, funding for education was increased, a homestead exemption law was authorized, state roads were improved and a ten-hour labor law was enacted. After his term, he was appointed judge on the Court of Errors and Appeals, serving (1863-68), then resumed the practice of medicine until his death at age 62. His nephew, John Franklin Fort was also Governor of New Jersey.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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