The Assembly districts were made up of entire towns, or city wards, forming a contiguous area, all within the same county.

Congressman Reuben E. Fenton and Speaker Thomas G. Alvord defeated the incumbent Gov.

The approximate party strength at this election, as expressed by the vote for Governor, was: Republican Union 369,000 and Democrats 361,000.

The Legislature met for the regular session at the Old State Capitol in Albany on January 3, 1865; and adjourned on April 28.

On March 9, Charles J. Folger (R) was elected president pro tempore of the State Senate.