Hard: A Legacy of Law and Public Service in New York
The professional journey of Hard reflects a dedicated commitment to the legal system and the governance of New York during the early to mid-19th century. From his academic beginnings to his tenure in the United States Congress, his career spanned multiple roles in the judiciary, education, and legislative branches of government.
Early Education and Legal Beginnings
Hard began his professional preparation at Union College, where he graduated in 1822. Following his graduation, he pursued the study of law, a rigorous process that led to his admission to the bar in 1825. By 1826, he had established his legal practice in Newport, New York, a location now known as Albion.
Political Career and Congressional Service
Hard transitioned into national politics during a period of significant ideological shifts. He was first elected to the 23rd United States Congress as an Anti-Mason—a member of a political party opposed to the perceived secrecy and influence of Freemasonry. He was subsequently re-elected to the 24th Congress as an Anti-Jacksonian, representing those opposed to the policies of President Andrew Jackson. He served in these capacities from March 4, 1833, to March 3, 1837.
State Governance and Educational Leadership
Following his time in Washington, Hard focused his efforts on New York state and local administration. Between 1841 and 1848, he served as the Commissioner of Schools for Barre, New York. Simultaneously, he held a significant role in the New York State Senate from 1842 to 1847, where he participated in the 65th, 66th, 67th, 68th, 69th, and 70th New York State Legislatures.
Judicial Roles and Later Years
In the latter part of his career, Hard held specialized administrative and judicial positions. From 1849 to 1850, he served as a Canal Appraiser, a role involving the valuation of land and property related to the state's canal systems. After returning to the practice of law, he reached a judicial peak serving as the First Judge and Surrogate of the Orleans County Court from 1856 to 1860.
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Key Facts
- Education: Graduated from Union College in 1822.
- Legal Admission: Admitted to the bar in 1825.
- Congressional Tenure: Served in the 23rd and 24th US Congresses (1833–1837).
- State Service: Member of the New York State Senate from 1842 to 1847.
- Judicial Role: First Judge and Surrogate of Orleans County (1856–1860).
- Final Resting Place: Buried at Mount Albion Cemetery.
| Period | Role/Achievement | Location/Entity |
|---|---|---|
| 1822 | Graduate | Union College |
| 1826 | Legal Practice | Newport (Albion), NY |
| 1833–1837 | US Congressman | 23rd & 24th Congress |
| 1841–1848 | Commissioner of Schools | Barre, NY |
| 1842–1847 | State Senator | NY State Senate |
| 1849–1850 | Canal Appraiser | New York State |
| 1856–1860 | First Judge and Surrogate | Orleans County Court |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Hard graduate from and when?
Hard graduated from Union College in 1822.
Which political parties did Hard represent in Congress?
He was elected to the 23rd Congress as an Anti-Mason and re-elected to the 24th Congress as an Anti-Jacksonian.
What judicial positions did Hard hold in Orleans County?
From 1856 to 1860, he served as the First Judge and Surrogate of the Orleans County Court.
How long did Hard serve in the New York State Senate?
He served as a member of the New York State Senate for five years, from 1842 to 1847.
Where is Hard buried?
He was buried at the Mount Albion Cemetery.