Date of Birth: April 23, 1834
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: April 5, 1928
Biography
Chauncey Mitchell Depew was an influential American politician, attorney, and businessman who played a significant role in the political and industrial landscape of the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Peekskill, New York, Depew graduated from Yale College in 1856 and shortly thereafter began his legal career. He quickly gained prominence in the Republican Party and served as a member of the New York State Assembly from 1862 to 1863. Depew’s political career flourished as he held various important positions, including Secretary of State of New York from 1864 to 1865. He was also a prominent figure in the railroad industry, serving as an attorney for the New York and Harlem Railroad and later rising to the position of president of the New York Central and Hudson River Railroad. In 1899, Depew was elected to the U.S. Senate representing New York, a position he held until 1911. Throughout his career, he was known for his oratory skills, wit, and charm, which made him a popular speaker in political and social circles. Depew continued to be active in public life until his death in 1928.
5 Interesting Facts about Chauncey Depew
1. Chauncey Depew was a trustee of Yale University for many years and delivered speeches at numerous commencement ceremonies.
2. He was known as one of the best after-dinner speakers of his time and was often invited to speak at prestigious events.
3. Depew was a director of more than 20 corporations, reflecting his extensive involvement in the business world.
4. He was a close friend and confidant of several U.S. Presidents, including Rutherford B. Hayes and Benjamin Harrison.
5. Depew was honored with a statue in Grand Central Terminal in New York City, commemorating his contributions to the railroad industry.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Chauncey Depew
1. “A pessimist is a man who thinks all women are bad. An optimist is a man who hopes they are.”
2. “The government of the United States is and always has been, a lawyer’s government.”
3. “The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”
4. “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
5. “An honest politician is one who, when he is bought, will stay bought.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Chauncey Depew’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, a substantial sum for his time.
Children
Chauncey Depew had one child, a son named Chauncey M. Depew Jr., who followed in his father’s footsteps in terms of public service and business.
Relevant Links
1. [Chauncey Depew – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauncey_Depew
3. [Find a Grave – Chauncey Depew](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/2480/chauncey-mitchell-depew
5. [Yale University Archives](https://archives.yale.edu/repositories/12/resources/3292
