Hugh Hoyles, leader of the Conservative Party, had been appointed premier and invited to form a government in March after his predecessor was dismissed by the governor.

Frederick Carter succeeded Hoyles as party leader and premier.

Carter formed a coalition government with Liberals Ambrose Shea and John Kent.

[4] Sir Alexander Bannerman served as colonial governor of Newfoundland until 1864.

[6] Frederick Carter and Ambrose Shea represented Newfoundland at the 1864 Quebec Conference on Canadian Confederation.