Levi Woodbury

Date of Birth: December 22, 1789

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: September 4, 1851

Biography

Levi Woodbury was an influential American judge, politician, and statesman who played a significant role in the political and judicial landscape of the United States during the 19th century. Born on December 22, 1789, in Francestown, New Hampshire, Woodbury pursued an illustrious career that spanned various high-profile roles including serving as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, the 9th Governor of New Hampshire, a U.S. Senator, and both Secretary of the Navy and Secretary of the Treasury under President Andrew Jackson. Woodbury graduated from Dartmouth College in 1809, followed by studying law at Litchfield Law School. He was admitted to the bar in 1812 and quickly rose through the ranks of public service. As Governor of New Hampshire, he introduced several reforms and was a strong advocate for the state’s economic development. His tenure in the U.S. Senate was marked by his support for Jacksonian democracy and his involvement in significant legislative activities. Appointed by President Jackson, Woodbury served as Secretary of the Navy from 1831 to 1834, where he oversaw significant naval expansion and modernization efforts. He then moved on to become Secretary of the Treasury, where he was known for his rigorous management of the nation’s finances and support for the Independent Treasury system. In 1845, Woodbury was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court by President James K. Polk, where he served until his death in 1851. His judicial opinions often reflected his democratic principles and strict adherence to the Constitution.

5 Interesting Facts about Levi Woodbury

1. Levi Woodbury was the first person to serve in all three branches of the U.S. government: executive, legislative, and judicial.

2. He played a crucial role in the establishment of the Independent Treasury System, which separated federal funds from private banks.

3. Woodbury was an ardent supporter of Andrew Jackson’s policies, including the controversial Indian Removal Act.

4. As Secretary of the Navy, he advocated for the construction of steam-powered warships, marking a transition in naval technology.

5. He was a member of the Freemasons and held several key positions within the organization.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Levi Woodbury

1. “Justice should not only be done but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done.”

2. “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.”

3. “A democracy is more than a form of government; it is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint communicated experience.”

4. “The function of government is to provide for the welfare of the people, and the best way to do that is to ensure justice and equality for all.”

5. “The principles of democracy are rooted in the belief of equal rights and opportunities for every individual.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Levi Woodbury’s highest estimated net worth during his lifetime was modest by today’s standards, reflective of a public servant’s earnings in the 19th century. Specific figures are difficult to ascertain, but his wealth was largely tied to his salary and modest investments.

Children

Levi Woodbury had five children with his wife, Elizabeth Clapp Woodbury. Their children were: 1. Mary Elizabeth Woodbury (1815–1899) 2. Charles Levi Woodbury (1820–1898) 3. Frances Ann Woodbury (1822–1889) 4. Ellen Carolina Woodbury (1825–1886) 5. Virginia Louisa Woodbury (1828–1912)