Joseph L. Tillinghast

Who was Joseph L. Tillinghast?

Joseph Leonard Tillinghast was a U.S. Representative from Rhode Island, cousin of Thomas Tillinghast.

Born in Taunton, Massachusetts, Tillinghast moved to Rhode Island and pursued classical studies. Published the Providence Gazette in 1809. He studied law. He was admitted to the bar in 1811 and began practice in Providence, Rhode Island. He served as member of the State house of representatives 1826-1833, serving as speaker 1829-1832.

Tillinghast was elected as a Whig to the Twenty-fifth, Twenty-sixth, and Twenty-seventh Congresses. He was not a candidate for renomination. Trustee of Brown University at Providence 1833-1844. He died in Providence, Rhode Island, December 30, 1844. He was interred in North Burial Ground.

He was a great great grandson of Rev. Pardon Tillinghast.