Thomas Butler: A Legal and Political Career in Early Louisiana
Thomas Butler was a prominent legal figure and politician whose life spanned several pivotal moments in early American history. From his early involvement in one of the nation's most famous conspiracies to his service in the United States Congress, Butler's career reflects the shifting political and social landscapes of the early 19th century.
Key Facts
- Legal Background: Admitted to the bar in Pittsburgh and later in the Mississippi Territory.
- Political Service: Served in the 15th and 16th United States Congresses.
- Judicial Roles: Served as judge of Feliciana Parish and the third judicial district of Louisiana.
- Political Affiliations: Member of the Democratic-Republican, Whig, and American parties.
- Historical Connection: Acted as a courier for Aaron Burr and was listed as a witness in the subsequent treason trial.
Early Legal Career and the Burr Conspiracy
Butler began his professional life studying law and practicing in Pittsburgh. In 1806, he became entangled in the intrigue surrounding Aaron Burr. Butler was tasked with delivering a letter from Burr to merchant William Wilkins and general John Wilkins Jr. While the letter did not explicitly disclose Burr's plans, it included a map showing roads from the Mississippi River to the Ouachita tract and toward Natchitoches, near the Spanish border.
Following this period, Butler moved to the Mississippi Territory in 1807 and was admitted to the bar there in 1808. His connection to the Burr conspiracy persisted, as he was listed as a witness to be summoned for the treason trial, identified as "Thomas Butler the Son of the late Colonel."
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Rise in Louisiana Politics and Judiciary
In 1810, Butler served as the captain of a cavalry troop in the Mississippi Territory Militia. By 1811, he had settled in Feliciana Parish, Louisiana, where he purchased land. His legal expertise led to his appointment as judge of Feliciana Parish on December 14, 1812, and later as judge of the third district on March 4, 1813, by Governor William C. C. Claiborne.
Butler's political ascent continued when he was elected to the 15th United States Congress as a member of the Democratic-Republican Party, filling a vacancy left by Thomas B. Robertson. He was subsequently elected to a full term in the 16th Congress, serving from November 16, 1818, to March 3, 1821. Although he sought renomination in 1820, he was unsuccessful.
Later Judicial and Political Shifts
After his time in the House of Representatives, Butler returned to the judiciary, serving as a special judge of the third judicial district in 1822 and 1840. Over time, his political loyalties shifted; he became affiliated with the Whig Party and later the American Party.
Butler also harbored gubernatorial ambitions. He ran in the 1824 Louisiana gubernatorial election but finished last with less than 3% of the vote. He saw more success in the 1828 election, where he placed second, securing over 21% of the popular vote.
Business Interests and Final Years
Beyond politics, Butler was involved in the development of regional infrastructure. In 1831, he served as a commissioner for the West Feliciana Railroad, a project intended to connect Bayou Sara and Woodville.
In his later years, failing health forced Butler to decline a congressional candidacy in 1844. He transitioned into the role of a plantation owner, managing sugar and cotton estates. He also contributed to education and history, serving as the president of the Board of Trustees of Louisiana College in Jackson and maintaining membership in the Louisiana Historical Society. It is also noted that Butler was a slaveowner.
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Thomas Butler died of apoplexy (a stroke) on August 7, 1847, while aboard the steamboat Old Hickory at St. Louis, Missouri. He was buried on his plantation, "The Cottage," near St. Francisville, Louisiana.
Career Summary
| Period/Year | Role/Event | Location/Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| 1806 | Courier for Aaron Burr | Pittsburgh / Mississippi River |
| 1812–1813 | Parish and District Judge | Feliciana Parish, Louisiana |
| 1818–1821 | U.S. Representative | 15th & 16th Congress (Democratic-Republican) |
| 1824 & 1828 | Gubernatorial Candidate | Louisiana |
| 1831 | Railroad Commissioner | West Feliciana Railroad |
| Later Years | President, Board of Trustees | Louisiana College |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Thomas Butler's connection to Aaron Burr?
Butler served as a courier in 1806, delivering a letter and a map of land purchases from Aaron Burr to William Wilkins and John Wilkins Jr. He was later listed as a witness in the treason trial related to the Burr conspiracy.
Which political parties did Thomas Butler belong to?
Throughout his career, Butler was affiliated with the Democratic-Republican Party, the Whig Party, and the American Party.
Did Thomas Butler ever become Governor of Louisiana?
No. He ran for governor twice: in 1824, where he received less than 3% of the vote, and in 1828, where he placed second with over 21% of the vote.
What were Butler's roles outside of politics and law?
Butler was a commissioner for the West Feliciana Railroad, a plantation owner producing sugar and cotton, and the president of the Board of Trustees of Louisiana College.
How and where did Thomas Butler die?
Butler died of apoplexy on August 7, 1847, on the steamboat Old Hickory in St. Louis, Missouri.