U.S. Congressman and Attica Resident

Lived: (January 5, 1793-September 20, 1855)

Biography

Harvey Putnam was born in Brattleboro Vermont and he attended public schools eventually studying law. He was admitted to the bar in 1816 and he began to practice law in Attica.

In Attica he began political and served several offices in Attica. When an opening caused by the death of congressman William Patterson lead to an election Harvey, running under the Whig party, was chosen to fill the vacant spot in the 25th Congress and served from 1838-39.

In 1840 he was appointed surrogate of Genesee County and surrogate of Wyoming County in 1842. From 1843-46 Harvey served as a member of the New York State Senate.

In 1847 He would again be elected to congress as a Whig in the 30th and 31st Congresses serving until 1851,

Harvey afterwards would resume his law practice until his death at the age of 62 in Attica.

Harvey was first buried in the 'Old' Exchange Street Cemetery and was reinterred on October 1870. Harvey is currently buried in Forest Hill Cemetery.