Richard S. Canby

Who was Richard S. Canby?

Richard Sprigg Canby was a U.S. Representative from Ohio.

Born in Lebanon, Ohio, Canby completed preparatory studies. He attended Miami University, Oxford, Ohio from 1826 to 1828. He engaged in mercantile pursuits and while thus employed studied law. He was admitted to the bar about 1840 and commenced practice in Bellefontaine, Ohio. He served as member of the State house of representatives in 1845 and 1846.

Canby was elected as a Whig to the Thirtieth Congress. He engaged in agricultural pursuits. Upon its formation in 1856 affiliated with the Republican Party. He moved to Olney, Illinois, in 1863, where he resumed the practice of law.

Canby was elected judge of the second judicial circuit court of Illinois in 1867 and served for several years. He again resumed the practice of his profession in Olney. Discontinued active business pursuits in 1882, and lived in retirement until his death. He died in Olney, Illinois, July 27, 1895. He was interred in Haven Hill Cemetery.