Nehemiah G. Ordway

Nehemiah George Ordway (November 10, 1828 – July 3, 1907) was an American politician who was a New Hampshire state senator and the seventh Governor of Dakota Territory. Ordway was regarded as one of Dakota Territory's most controversial governors.

Nehemiah Ordway was born in Warner, New Hampshire. After receiving his education, Ordway entered the mercantile and banking businesses. During Abraham Lincoln's bid for the Presidency in 1860, Ordway served as chairman in New Hampshire for the new Republican party. In 1862, he was appointed General Agent of the Post Office Department for the New England states. From 1863 until 1875, Ordway served as Sergeant at Arms of the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. He organized the Washington Market and controlled it for the remainder of his life. From 1875 until 1880, Ordway served as state senator in New Hampshire.

The New Hampshire congressional delegation nominated Nehemiah Ordway for the office of Governor of Dakota Territory. In May 1880, he was appointed by President Rutherford B. Hayes. Ordway was confirmed on June 1, 1880; he arrived in Yankton with his wife and son on June 23, 1880.

During his time as governor, Ordway made efforts to move the territorial capitol to Bismarck. This action angered political leaders in Yankton and Sioux Falls. Citizens of Yankton viewed Ordway as corrupt.

On February 2, 1881, nine consecutive days of snowfall started in Dakota Territory, resulting in food and fuel shortages. Governor Ordway sought Army and Indian supplies until private donations could be obtained. Eventually, he obtained $7000 in cash contributions as well as six tons of relief supplies.

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