Harry Welles Rusk (October 17, 1852 – January 28, 1926) was a U.S. Representative from the third district of Maryland. He was also the president of the Kennard Novelty Company in Baltimore. This was the first company to commercially sell ouija boards in 1890.

Early life

Rusk was born in Baltimore, Maryland on October 17, 1852.[1] He was the son of Jacob Krebs Rusk (1823–1913) and Catharine Olivia Rusk (1829–1902). Among his siblings were Dr. George Glanville Rusk and Jacob Krebs Rusk Jr.[2]

He attended private school for his primary education. In 1866 Rusk graduated from high school from Baltimore City College. Rusk obtained a law degree from the University of Maryland School of Law in 1872 and was admitted to the bar in 1873.[1]

Career

Following his admission to the Maryland State Bar, Rusk began practicing law in Baltimore. Rusk served in the Maryland House of Delegates from 1876 to 1880. Subsequently, Rusk was elected and served in the Maryland State Senate from 1882 to 1884. In 1884, Rusk served as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention. Following the death of William H. Cole, Rusk was elected as a Democrat to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 49th United States Congress. Rusk served for five subsequent terms. In the 52nd Congress and 53rd Congress, Rusk was chairman of the Committee on Accounts.[1]

After declining to run for reelection in 1896, Rusk became chairman of the Democratic State central committee for Baltimore. Rusk served in this capacity from 1898 to 1908. Thereafter, Rusk resumed practicing law in Baltimore.[1]

Personal life

On December 16, 1880, Rusk was married to Isabelle Whitmore Adams.[3] Together, they were the parents of one son:[4]

Rusk died in Baltimore on January 28, 1926 and was interred in Green Mount Cemetery.[1]

Sources

References

U.S. House of Representatives
Preceded by Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Maryland's 3rd congressional district

1886–1897
Succeeded by
No tags for this post.