Samuel Bell (New Hampshire politician)

Samuel Bell (1769 – 1849) was an American lawyer, jurist, and politician from Francestown, New Hampshire. He served as the eighth Governor of New Hampshire, a United States Senator, and a Justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court.

Bell was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1793 and was admitted to the New Hampshire bar in 1796. He began his legal practice in Francestown, where he became a prominent figure in local and state politics.

Bell's political career began with service in the New Hampshire House of Representatives from 1804 to 1807, serving as Speaker of the House for two years. He served as a Justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court from 1816 to 1819.

In 1819, Bell was elected as the eighth Governor of New Hampshire, serving until 1823. During his governorship, he focused on promoting education and internal improvements, particularly roads and canals. He advocated for fiscal responsibility and limited government spending.

Following his term as governor, Bell was elected to the United States Senate in 1823, serving until 1835. He was a supporter of Andrew Jackson, although his voting record often reflected a more independent stance on issues. He served as chairman of the Committee on Revolutionary Claims. He was a prominent figure in the debates surrounding the Second Bank of the United States, ultimately opposing its recharter.

After retiring from the Senate, Bell returned to his legal practice in Chester, New Hampshire. He died in Chester in 1849. Bell was a significant figure in New Hampshire's early political history, known for his integrity, his commitment to public service, and his independent political views.