He attended private schools, including Paulding Institute, and then became a partner in the mercantile business of Odell & Clark while also becoming involved in his father's steamboat business on the North River.

He established the First National Bank of Tarrytown and served as cashier from 1862 to 1864.

After leaving Congress Odell resumed his banking interests and also became involved in the real estate business.

Odell died in Tarrytown, New York, October 30, 1904.

This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress