He married Eliza Ann Decker (1819–1854), and they had three children, among them Assemblyman George D. Lord.
He also became a contractor, engaging in canal construction, and was president of the Bank of Monroe of Rochester.
At the state elections in 1861 and 1864, he ran on the Democratic ticket for Canal Commissioner, but was defeated both times by Republican Franklin A. Alberger.
He was again a member of the State Assembly in 1867, and was the Democratic minority's candidate for Speaker.
In 1876–77, he was accused in connection with the Canal Ring frauds, and became a defendant in a series of trials.