Sampson W. Harris

Sampson W. Harris

Sampson W. Harris

Sampson W. Harris, a prominent political figure from Athens, lived until the age of 48, from 1809 to 1857.

Meera Desai

1809-1857

Sampson W. Harris, a prominent figure from Athens, lived until the age of 48, from 1809 to 1857. Born in Elbert County, Georgia to Stephen Willis Harris and Sarah Herndon Harris, he went on to attend the University of Georgia in 1828. There, he studied through the law program and passed the bar exam in 1830. Harris then opened a law practice and carried out his career in law in Athens, but soon moved into the political realm, serving in the Georgia State House of Representatives from 1834-1835. Three years later, he aimed for a more prominent role in politics, and moved to Wetumpka, Alabama, where he became the solicitor of the Eighth Circuit. In 1844 and 1845, he was elected to and served in the State Senate of Alabama. His final role was during the years of 1846-1855, where he served in the United States House of Representatives on behalf of Alabama. However, Harris soon fell into poor health, and turned down another bid for Congress. He passed away a few short weeks later in Washington, DC, and was brought back to Athens, Georgia. He was survived by his wife, Paulina Harris, and four of his five siblings. A small monument still stands in Washington, DC, commemorating Harris and his work for his country.