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Carlisle (JOHN GRIFFIN an American)

JOHN GRIFFIN, an American statesman, born in Campbell Ky., Sept. 5, 1835; received a common-school education, studied law, and was admitted to the bar (1858). He served several terms in the lower house of the State Legislature. During the Civil War he actively opposed secession, and in 1866 and 1869 was a member of the State Senate. He was lieutenantgovernor of Kentucky (1871-1875), was elected to Congress (1876), and five times re-elected. His ability soon made him one of the Democratic leaders. In the 48th, 49th, and 50th Congresses he was chosen Speaker. In 1890 he was elected United States Senator, but resigned in March, 1893, to accept the portfolio of Secretary of the Treasury in President Cleveland's Cabinet. At the close of his term he settled in New York City to practice law. He died July 31, 1910.