(Dec. 18, 1780-Aug. 16, 1864). Born in Monongalia County, Virginia (now West Virginia), Morris Morris moved to Kentucky as a child and later practiced law there. When he converted to the Christian faith, Morris gave up his law practice, believing it was no longer a suitable career.
In 1821, desiring to live in a state without slavery, he moved his family to Indiana. They arrived in Indianapolis not long after it was platted, and Morris began acquiring large landholdings in and near the town. He ran unsuccessfully for county clerk in 1822 and for sheriff in 1824. Two years later, he was elected to the Indiana General Assembly’s House of Representatives, serving for one year (1826-1827).
In 1828, Morris began a 16-year career as elected state auditor (1828-1844). During this period, he also served as one of three commissioners who supervised the construction of the first in 1832. After leaving the auditor’s position, he was an Indianapolis city councilman (1847-1848).
In 1848, he and his sons constructed a steam mill on South Meridian Street near the site of the future . When his term on the City Council expired, Morris retired at age 68. In 1854, he hosted the first Old Settlers’ Meeting of Indianapolis pioneers, which became an annual event thereafter.
Help improve this entry
Contribute information, offer corrections, suggest images.
You can also recommend new entries related to this topic.
