Scanlon's Political Career in Waupaca County
The political trajectory of Scanlon provides a glimpse into the local governance and shifting party dynamics of the late 19th century. Before ascending to state-level representation, Scanlon established a strong foundation in local administration, serving in several key capacities including town treasurer and chairman of the town board of supervisors.
His involvement in broader political movements was evidenced in 1877, when he served as a delegate to the Greenback state convention. The Greenback movement was a political effort centered on the expansion of paper currency to assist debtors and farmers.
Election to the State Assembly
In 1879, Scanlon successfully ran for a seat in the assembly representing the 2nd Waupaca County district. This expansive district encompassed the first and second wards of New London, as well as the towns of Bear Creek, Dupont, Helvetia, Iola, Larrabee, Lebanon, Little Wolf, Matteson, Mukwa, Scandinavia, St. Lawrence, and Union.
The election was a competitive contest. Scanlon secured victory with 943 votes, defeating the Republican candidate L. D. Moses, who received 783 votes. It is noted that the Republican incumbent, Francis Guernsey, did not seek re-election.
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Upon taking office, Scanlon was appointed to the standing committee on town and county organization, a role focused on the structural administration of local government entities.
The 1880 Re-election Campaign
Scanlon sought to maintain his seat in the 1880 election, but faced a more challenging political climate. The race resulted in a victory for Republican Nels Anderson, who garnered 962 votes.
The vote was split among three candidates, which contributed to Scanlon's defeat. While Anderson took the lead, Democratic former State Representative Michael Gorman received 419 votes, and Scanlon finished with 345 votes.
Key Facts
- Local Roles: Served as town treasurer and chairman of the town board of supervisors.
- Political Affiliation: Delegate to the Greenback state convention in 1877.
- 1879 Victory: Won the 2nd Waupaca County district seat with 943 votes.
- Committee Assignment: Member of the standing committee on town and county organization.
- 1880 Defeat: Lost re-election to Nels Anderson, receiving 345 votes.
| Election Year | Winning Candidate | Scanlon's Votes | Opponent(s) Votes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1879 | Scanlon | 943 | L. D. Moses (783) |
| 1880 | Nels Anderson | 345 | Nels Anderson (962), Michael Gorman (419) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which local offices did Scanlon hold?
Scanlon served as the town treasurer and the chairman of the town board of supervisors.
What was Scanlon's role in the 1877 Greenback state convention?
He participated in the convention as a delegate.
Which towns were included in the 2nd Waupaca County district in 1879?
The district included Bear Creek, Dupont, Helvetia, Iola, Larrabee, Lebanon, Little Wolf, Matteson, Mukwa, Scandinavia, St. Lawrence, Union, and the first and second wards of New London.
Who defeated Scanlon in the 1880 election?
He was defeated by Republican Nels Anderson.
What committee was Scanlon assigned to during his assembly term?
He was assigned to the standing committee on town and county organization.