Benedict Arnold

Benedict Arnold (October 5, 1780 – March 3, 1849) was an American politician from New York, and a member of the House of Representatives. Biography Arnold was born in Amsterdam, Tryon County, New York (after 1784 Montgomery County, New York) the son of Elisha and Sarah Francisco Arnold. He was named in honor of the famous Benedict Arnold at a time during the American Revolutionary War when he was still seen as a hero of the United States, stemming from the capture of Fort Ticonderoga. Arnold attended the local schools and became a successful merchant. He married Mary 'Polly' Bovee (sister of Matthias J. Bovee) on August 21, 1806 in Amsterdam, Montogmery County, New York. They had twelve children, Hiram, Jane, William, Maria, James, Charlotte, Lorenzo, Benedict, Hasley, Sarah, Marion, and Adam. Career Arnold owned large stretches of land, and was able to dedicate much time to philanthropy. As was common at the time for local magnates, he entered politics for a short period; in 1816 and 1817, he served as a member of the New York State Assembly.