Thomas Russell (September 26, 1825 – February 9, 1887) was an American jurist and government official who served as Collector of Customs for the Port of Boston, United States Minister Resident to Venezuela, and Massachusetts Commissioner of Railroads.
[3] Russell was known for his harsh sentences against garroters which was credited with deterring similar attacks.
[5] He remained in Venezuela until 1877, when a report written by Russell stating that the United States would have to use force or bribery to collect on the claims of their citizens against the Venezuelan government was published, resulting in Venezuelan President Antonio Guzmán Blanco breaking off all official relations with Russell and forcing his recall.
[2] That same year he was appointed chairman of the Massachusetts railroad commission, a position he held until his death.
[4] He was also a member of the Mount Lebanon Lodge and spoke at numerous Freemason assemblies.