Edward Harris (Rhode Island politician)

Edward Harris (1801–1872) was an American wool manufacturer, abolitionist, temperance supporter, and philanthropist.

At a young age he moved with his parents to Dutchess County, New York, where he worked on the family farm and taught school.

In 1831 Edward Harris started his own small mill in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

Harris entered politics, being elected to both the Rhode Island State Senate and House of Representatives.

[2] In 1859 Harris wrote a letter and sent a check to John Brown after his conviction for killings at Harper's Ferry.

Edward Harris, founder of the Woonsocket Public Library, the first public library in Rhode Island