[2] A Democratic-Republican,[3] Edson began a career in government at an early age, serving as a town constable from 1805 to 1809.
[4] During the War of 1812 he was commissioned as a major, and helped organize the Randolph-area contingent that took part in the defense of Plattsburgh in September 1814.
[4] He continued to serve in the militia, and was commander of 1st Brigade, 4th Division from 1818 to 1822 with the rank of brigadier general.
[4][8] From 1815 to 1821, Edson served as a trustee of Randolph's Orange County Grammar School.
[4] In March 1823, Edson was appointed United States Marshal for the District of Vermont, succeeding Heman Allen.