James Sherman:
A Vice Presidential Unit

James S. Sherman was the twenty-seventh vice president of the United States of America. Born October 24, 1855 in Utica, New York and passed away October 30, 1912. His vice presidential term lasted from 1909-1912 serving under William Howard Taft. James S. Sherman, renowned business man and lawyer, graduating from Hamilton College with extremely high recognition for his rhetoric and debate skills and ties to a fraternity known as Sigma Phi. Soon after graduation in 1878, James applied and was admitted to the New York state bar where he practiced law with a brother in law. Soon after working in the field of law, James was elected U.S. Representative in 1886 under New York’s 23rd congressional district as a Republican Party member. In 1888 he was reelected, however soon afterwards he had subsequent competitive runnings against Henry W. Bentley, who defeated James in 1890, but came back in 1892 to reclaim his position. However, often seen as James S. Sherman’s greatest political accomplishment was his nomination for vice president in 1908, where he was supported by over 80% of the delegates. His celebrated nomination resulted in much appreciation for his rhetoric and debate skills, and was often seen as a very influential figure to the president, William Howard Taft. James coming to an end in his four year vice presidency was the first vice president to fly in an airplane in 1911, as many see this as his last significant goodbye. In June 1912, James was the first vice president to be re-nominated by a National convention. However, soon after in 1912 James was diagnose with gallstones which was a symptom of his Bright’s disease, and six days after his birthday passed away in his hometown of Utica.

Political Party: Republican
President: William Howard Taft
Family Members: Richard Updike Sherman- Dad, Carrie Babcock- Wife

Trivia Questions:
1) How many children did James S. Sherman have?
Three

2) Where was James S. Sherman buried?
Forest Hill Cemetery

3) In 1898, what position did James S. Sherman assume?
Speaker of the house

Of Note:
• His nick name while in the law firm was Sunny Jim.
• He served as president for two companies, Utica Trust & Deposit Co. and of the New Hartford Canning Co.
• He was elected mayor of Utica in 1884.





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