John Rhoderic McPherson | |
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![]() McPherson c. 1860-75 | |
United States Senator from New Jersey | |
In office March 4, 1877 – March 3, 1895 | |
Preceded by | Frederick T. Frelinghuysen |
Succeeded by | William J. Sewell |
Member of the New Jersey Senate from Hudson County | |
In office 1872–1876 | |
Preceded by | Noah D. Taylor |
Succeeded by | Leon Abbett |
Personal details | |
Born | York, New York | May 9, 1833
Died | October 8, 1897 Jersey City, New Jersey | (aged 64)
Resting place | Oak Hill Cemetery, Washington, D.C. |
Political party | Democratic |
Spouse |
Edla Jane Gregory (m. 1867) |
Children | 2 |
Education | Meatpacking business owner and executive |
John Rhoderic[1] McPherson (May 9, 1833 – October 8, 1897) was an American businessman, inventor, and Democratic politician who represented New Jersey in the United States Senate for three terms from 1877 to 1895. Prior to his election, he was engaged in Jersey City politics and represented Hudson County in the New Jersey Senate.
A native of York, New York, McPherson raised livestock and worked as a butcher before moving to Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1858, where he dealt in livestock and became a prominent businessman in the meatpacking industry. An inventor, he devised or created improvements that enhanced sanitation and efficiency in slaughterhouses, many of which were later employed as industry standards.
Active in politics as a Democrat, McPherson served on the Jersey City Board of Aldermen, as president of the Board of Aldermen, and as a member of the New Jersey State Senate. In 1877, McPherson was elected to the United States Senate. He was reelected twice and served from 1877 to 1895. During his Senate service, McPherson spent several terms as chairman of the Naval Affairs Committee.
After leaving the Senate, McPherson resumed his activities in the meatpacking business. He died in Jersey City on October 8, 1897. He was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery in Washington, D.C.