William Cabell Rives (1793-1868)

William C. Rives Sr., U.S. Senator from Virginia & Minister to France

He was born at Union Hill, Virginia. He studied law and was, "more or less under the guidance and influence of ex-President Jefferson". Aided by his wife's families prominence, he represented Nelson in the Virginia House of Delegates and then sat for Albermarle County in which sat his wife's estate, "Castle Hill". From 1823 to 1829 he was the U.S. Representative from Virginia and when Andrew Jackson was elected President he was appointed U.S. Minister to France, serving until 1832. Immediately after his return to the States, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, holding that position until 1845. He died at Castle Hill and was survived by his widow and five children.

Categories

Contributed by Mark Meredith on 02/02/2021 and last updated on 15/01/2024.