He attended a district school, and at age 16 became a clerk in a dry-goods store.
About 1853, he bought a farm, and engaged in agricultural pursuits.
While in business, he studied privately medicine and law, and was admitted to the bar in 1856, but did not practice.
He was a member of the New York State Senate (13th D.) in 1858 and 1859, nominated on the Know Nothing ticket, and endorsed by the Republicans.
1810) was married to Wisconsin State Senator George Gale (1816–1868).