Presidents Everywhere - John Tyler, Sr.'s Roommates and Children
John Tyler, Sr wasn’t just the father of a President, he was also one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.
John Tyler, Sr.
While John Tyler was studying law at the College of William and Mary, he shared a room with Thomas Jefferson.
Jefferson was not the only future President Tyler crossed paths with in his life.
In addition to the men he associated with during the American Revolution, his own son, John Tyler, Jr, would eventually serve as the 10th President of the United States.
Speaker of the Virginia House
John Tyler spent most of the American Revolution in the Virginia House of Burgesses.
This body, now known as the State Assembly, had John as its Speaker for the better part of two decades. For part of this time, he worked closely with Governor Benjamin Harrison who would himself have a son that became President (William Henry Harrison...whose Vice President would be John Tyler, Jr).
Tyler was also appointed to several judicial positions in Virginia and became known colloquially as Justice Tyler.
This became extra convenient in 1790 when his son and namesake was born.
Anti-Federalist
John was elected as a Delegate to the Virginia Ratification Convention which considered the US Constitution.
A long time associate of Patrick Henry, Tyler fervently opposed the new government. He was surprised by how many questions the Constitution’s authors had left open ended.
Despite his position, John (like many Anti-Federalists) still unsuccessfully attempted to obtain an office in Washington’s Administration.
Governor
Although he never served with the Federal Government, John Tyler continued on as Virginia’s Speaker of the House as well as running up the ladder of judicial positions.
In 1811, Tyler was selected as Governor of Virginia.
John spent two years in this position, retiring just as his son was beginning his own political career in the State Assembly.
I have written several Founders who’s children and grandchildren became President.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Benjamin Harrison - Overseeing the Debate on Independence
Ezekiel Polk Teaches a President
Though he is not a Founder, President John Tyler led an extremely interesting political life.
From being the first Vice-President who’s superior died, to siding with the Confederate States, ‘President without a Party’ is a great read for any fan of American History.
Pick up a copy through the Amazon affiliate link below.
