State Senator Michael Russell, 30th District of New York, 1901
New York State Assembly, Rensselaer County, 3rd District, 1898–1900
Bvt. Capt. and 1st Lieut., Co. I, 169th N.Y., G.A.R.
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RUSSELL, MICHAEL. – Age, 19 years. Enrolled, August 30, 1862, at Troy, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. H, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth N. Y. Volunteer Infantry Regiment, October 6, 1862; promoted corporal, no date; sergeant, April 1, 1863; first sergeant, no date; mustered in as second lieutenant, October 31, 1864; as first lieutenant, to date September 16, 1864; transferred to Co. I, November 29, 1864; mustered out with company, July 19, 1865, at Raleigh, N. C.
Commissioned second lieutenant, September 16, 1864, with rank from August 16, 1864, vice E. R. Mosher promoted; first lieutenant, November 19, 1864, with rank from September 16, 1864, vice Jonas H. Warren promoted.
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Memoirs of Alonzo Alden (1834-1900), 1896, Collection of Williams College Library, Williamstown, Mass.
"The 169th Moves Against Fort Fisher the Second Time. Charge of the Third Brigade.
"The Third Brigade charged forward to a line of rifle trenches and gopher holes, filled with water, a distance of about 200 paces. Then, under the direction of Colonel Charles A. Carleton, chief of staff of General Ames, and under the command of Colonel Alden, the column moved to the front and right, diagonally, over a very uneven surface, encountering sand dunes and swamps; bursting shells, grape and canister, and sharpshooters' bullets, occasioning casualties with great frequency in all the regiments of the brigade, until at last we struck a road leading over a bridge that spanned a muddy swale or brook, over which the enemy's projectiles swept, producing many casualties.
"At this supremely critical point, Colonel Bell was about effecting the promised juncture with the charging column when he fell, mortally wounded with a minié ball through his bowels. Lieut. Michael Russell, one of the best officers of the 169th regiment, who was gallantly leading his company into that maelstrom of death, was shot through the lung with a minié ball and fell in the near proximity to the writer, supposed to be mortally wounded.
"The charging column passed the northwest flank of the fort and the sally port just at that point, to the rear of the northwest wing, and deployed under the cover of the elevated sand banks and sand mounds apparently covering magazines, bombproof quarters for troops, ammunition, and supplies for hospital purposes.
From this alignment, the Third Brigade fought the Confederate garrison of this northwest wing over the heaps of rubbish, wrecks of gun carriages, barracks and broken guns, the debris resulting from the naval bombardment; and over the shoulders of the irregular series of sand mounds which shielded the interior of the fort from any force outside.
"The eagle-eyes of the opposing forces would seek to detect a head or any part of the person of the enemy in the exposed entrances to the bombproofs of the north wing, when an effectual target practice would result disastrously to both of the contending forces."
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New York in the War of the Rebellion, 1861 to 1865, by Frederick Phisterer, Weed, Parsons and Company, Albany, 1890.
Roll of Honor for gallant and meritorious services in the late war. Brevets from the State.
THE Legislature in concurrent resolutions of April 24th and 28th, 1865, authorized the Executive of the State, "it being a sacred and grateful duty, to acknowledge in any suitable manner the personal sacrifice and heroic deeds of the officers and soldiers of this State, who have or may aid the Government of the United States in suppressing the existing wicked rebellion," to confer commissions with brevet rank, in any of the several grades which he is now authorized to confer, upon such officers and soldiers of the Volunteer forces of this State, as have or may distinguish themselves by gallantry in battle or meritorious and honorable conduct, which mark of honor shall be stated in the commission conferred.
Under this resolution the first commission was issued September 13, 1865, and the last January 30, 1882; and the following received brevet commissions accordingly.
RUSSELL, MICHAEL, First Lieutenant, 169th Infantry; Captain, October 22, 1867, for gallant and meritorious services in the late war.
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The Troy Daily Times (Supplement), October 13, 1900.
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES
MEN OF FINE RECORDS
Sketches of Their Lives
Facts about Representative Republicans of Rensselaer County – Frank S. Black, the Honored Leader – The Nominees for Legislative and County Offices – Their High Character and Valuable Public Service.
The Troy Times to-day presents what it believes to be one of the best campaign documents ever issued. In this Art Supplement it furnishes lifelike pictures and accurate and comprehensive sketches of the men who are the chosen leaders and standard bearers of the Republican party in Rensselaer County and the Congressional District of which, in union with Columbia County, it is a part.
Very properly, first place is given to Hon. Frank S. Black, ex-Governor of the State of New York and the brilliant and honored head of the Republican organization of Rensselaer County. Following this come in due order the candidates named for Congress, for the State Senate, for the Assembly and for County offices. These are all accompanied by excellent portraits of the gentlemen referred to. Thus the people of Rensselaer County and of this vicinity are enabled to form the acquaintance of these leaders and nominees, even if they do not know them personally.
The Art Supplement is one of the finest yet produced by The Troy Times, and will be valuable both for its political and artistic contents.
MICHAEL RUSSELL.
When the Republicans of Rensselaer County nominated Michael Russell for State Senator from the Thirtieth Senatorial District they selected the logical candidate and the man who above all others is by experience best qualified for the position. Mr. Russell’s legislative experience fits him most admirably for service in the State Senate, and he will go from the lower to the upper house of the Legislature with a prestige which will give him influence of great value to his constituents. Mr. Russell has served his party faithfully and with pronounced ability, and he thoroughly deserves the higher honor that the voters of this district will extend to him on the 6th of next month.
Michael Russell is a native of Troy. He was born in this city in 1844 and has resided here nearly all his life. His early education in the public schools of the city was cut short by his enlistment, when only eighteen years of age, as a private in Company H of the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth New York Volunteer Infantry, one of the "fighting regiments" of this state. For three years Mr. Russell saw active service at the front and participated in numerous battles, being finally seriously wounded. His bravery and soldierly ability led to his promotion through all the grades from private to Brevet Captain, with which rank he was mustered out of the service.
Returning from the war, Mr. Russell resided for a short time in Poughkeepsie, where he attended school. But in 1867 he returned to Troy and secured a position in the grocery business of Edgar F. Van Derzee, a comrade in the old regiment.
Later he was appointed to a clerkship in the Troy post office by General Alonzo Alden, his old Colonel, who was then Postmaster. While filling a night position in the employ of the federal government he studied law during the day in the office of District Attorney Wooster, thus manifesting those energetic qualities which have shown themselves so frequently since that time. He served with faithfulness and ability in the postal service and was promoted several times, until he finally became Deputy Postmaster under Judge Gilbert Robertson, Jr.
At the expiration of Judge Robertson's term Mr. Russell retired from the service and engaged in the grocery business at the corner of Congress Street and Pawling Avenue, where he has ever since been located and where he has gained the success that his sterling qualities deserve.
Mr. Russell has always been a stanch Republican and an indefatigable worker in the cause of good government. He has served as a delegate to state, congressional and county conventions and has always been found on the side of progressive Republicanism. In 1897 he was nominated for Member of Assembly from the Third District of Rensselaer County and was elected by a plurality of 1,811. In the Assembly of 1898 Mr. Russell served on the Railroads, Villages and Soldiers' Home Committees and so gained recognition among his fellow members as a hard worker and determined fighter.
In 1898 Mr. Russell was re-nominated and re-elected, his plurality over his Democratic opponent being 1,241. In the following session Mr. Russell was appointed to the Committees on Taxation and Retrenchment, Affairs of Villages and State Prisons.
Re-nominated last year, Mr. Russell was again victorious, his plurality being 1,445. Last winter he served on the important Committee on Ways and Means, as well as on the Public Education and Charitable and Religious Societies Committees. He was recognized as a Republican leader in the Assembly. During all of Mr. Russell's career in the Assembly he worked with a will to secure the passage of bills in which his constituents were interested, and it is doubtful if there was another member of the house who met with greater success in promoting legislation of benefit to his district.
Mr. Russell is a genuinely popular man. Approachable and sympathetic to a degree, he has won a host of warm friends and of admirers even among those who have been denied personal acquaintance with him. Naturally shrewd and farseeing, his legal studies have served him well, and no man could be selected who is better qualified to represent the party and the district in the Senate of New York State.
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The Troy Daily Times, March 26, 1901.
STRICKEN AT THE CAPITOL.
Senator Michael Russell Suffered a Stroke of Apoplexy – Unconscious in the Cloak Room – Taken to the Albany Hospital – His Condition Improved To-day.
Senator Michael Russell of this city was stricken with apoplexy at the Capitol in Albany shortly after 10 o'clock last night while in attendance upon the session of the Legislature. It was a few minutes after 8 o'clock when he reached the Senate chamber from his home in this city. He had been in poor health in the winter, and last evening upon arriving at the Capitol complained of feeling ill.
Would Not Desert His Post.
Several of his friends upon learning of his indisposition urged him to return home at once. He declined to leave his post of duty, however, and joined with his colleagues in the Senate proceedings for nearly two hours.
Toward 10 o'clock some of the newspaper correspondents, whose desks fronted that of Senator Russell, noticed that he seemed to be suffering great pain. Just at this juncture he was seen to arise from his chair in the Senate chamber and make his way laboriously to the cloak room.
Fell to the Floor.
One of the assistant janitors in waiting there at his request hastened to get his coat and hat for him. Meantime the Senator leaned heavily against a chair near at hand, and complained again of the intense pain in his head.
While he was being helped on with his overcoat he suddenly staggered and began sinking to the floor.
Carried to the Clerk's Room.
Assistance was quickly at hand, and he was carried to the private room of Clerk Whipple across the corridor. There he was laid upon a couch and messages were dispatched for physicians. He appeared to be in a sort of stupor at first, but soon rallied and asked for a glass of water.
The Diagnosis.
By this time Dr. Henry of the Assembly reached Senator Russell's side and made a hurried examination. He found that the Senator had suffered a stroke of apoplexy. The left side was affected and the tongue likewise. Nevertheless he was able to articulate with some difficulty, so that those about him could understand his wishes.
More Medical Aid.
A call for medical aid from the Albany Hospital had been sent, and Dr. Richardson speedily responded. He concurred in Dr. Henry's diagnosis of Senator Russell's illness. Both agreed that his condition then was not necessarily serious, although it would require several hours to determine just what progress the hemorrhage was making.
Removed to the Hospital.
As the judgment of both physicians was that Senator Russell ought not to be removed to his home under the circumstances the Albany Hospital ambulance was telephoned for, and soon afterward he was removed to that institution.
It is believed that a wound received by the Senator during the War of the Rebellion was to some extent responsible for his present illness.
The Family Summoned.
Word was dispatched to Mrs. Russell and her son, advising them of the Senator's illness, and they arrived in Albany as quickly as possible. They were driven to the hospital, where they were permitted to see the Senator for a short time.
With the Senator.
District Attorney W. O. Howard and Sheriff M. A. Heeran, who happened to be at the Capitol last evening, were in attendance upon Senator Russell after he succumbed to the stroke before his removal to the hospital. Assemblymen Galbraith and Ahern were also present.
His Condition To-day.
At the Albany Hospital this morning it was stated that the Senator had rested comfortably during the night and that his condition was improved. He had partially recovered consciousness.
A Comfortable Night.
Senator Russell's attending physicians, Dr. Richardson and Dr. S. B. Ward, informed The Times correspondent to-day that the patient had passed a comfortable night. He rested very well, and was apparently in complete possession of his mental faculties. So far as could be determined the paralysis had not spread.
Favorable Prospect.
Dr. Richardson said this morning that unless unforeseen developments set in he expected the Senator to recover sufficiently to be out and about in three or four weeks.
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The Troy Daily Times, May 6, 1901.
A Public Servant Faithful Unto Death.
Hon. Michael Russell, State Senator from the district composed of Rensselaer County, died to-day at his home in this city, after a long and brave struggle with illness.
The regret at the death of so good and so faithful a public servant as Senator Russell will be emphasized by the fact that his death resulted from his devotion to the people's interests. He was in truth a martyr to the public service.
The beginning of Senator Russell's illness dates back to the time when, as a volunteer soldier wearing the Union blue in the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment of New York, a rebel bullet penetrated his body, causing a wound from which he never entirely recovered. When he sat with aching head at his desk in the State Senate chamber one night, and would not permit physical distress to cause him to forsake his duties to his constituents, although implored by his associates to consider his own personal safety, the stroke of apoplexy fell upon him. In all the long struggle to rally from that prostrating blow, his old wound, sustained for the American Union, interfered with its harassing pain and obstructive influence. So Senator Russell died for his country, for his state, for his county, because his fidelity always placed the public service before personal comfort even when his own life was in the balance.
Such a consideration, appealing as it does to popular gratitude, is not needed to make the people of Rensselaer County feel the sense of bereavement in Senator Russell's death. He was trusted absolutely as an honest and honorable man. To make operative his fine sense of right, there was industry which was really amazing. Senator Russell's perseverance knew no bounds. He was for three terms in the Assembly, and it became proverbial that the bills introduced by him as Assemblyman were sure to pass. For his industry was accompanied by geniality, a warmhearted friendliness that disarmed all opposition. In his last term as Assemblyman he had become so conspicuous as a legislator of influence that he was placed on the foremost committee of the Assembly – the Committee on Ways and Means.
The popular majorities which Mr. Russell received were evidence that the people liked him and believed in him. He was a winning campaigner. He was omnipresent in his district, a stirring and convincing speaker on the public platform, with a sincere hand outstretched to everybody.
Senator Russell never betrayed a trust which the people placed in his hands. When a bill was introduced in the state Assembly which would have classed Troy's collar workers in the same category with the employes of the sweatshops of New York city, Senator Russell said that it must not be. He aroused the collar manufacturers and led an organized opposition that held the entire bill motionless until the obnoxious provision was eliminated.
It is a melancholy pleasure, mingled with the sombre solemnity of this event of death, to dwell upon the noble friendship, the inflexible fidelity, of this good citizen and earnest legislator. He was a tender and thoughtful husband and father, he was helpful to neighbors and friends, he was true to the Republican party, which represented his highest national ideals, whether he was on the battlefield or in the council halls of the state; he never wavered in his allegiance to those leaders upon whom his party had placed the responsibility of leadership, and the voice of the people was to him the authority of an unquestionable law.
Whatever opponents he might have in the marshaling of the forces of political partisanship, he had no personal enemies. Every voice will speak the mournful tones of regret that Michael Russell – comrade in the Republic's armies, Senator in his state's Legislature, loyal citizen and friend in heart and hand – has passed beyond the sound of earth's roll-calls.
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The Troy Daily Times, May 8, 1901.
SENATOR RUSSELL'S FUNERAL.
A Large Attendance at the Service This Afternoon – Prominent Legislators Present – The Interment in Montgomery County.
The funeral of Senator Michael Russell was held this afternoon at 12:15 o'clock from the residence on Pine Woods Avenue, and was very largely attended by relatives, friends and officials who were associated with the deceased in public life. Delegations of state Senators and Assemblymen and Masonic representatives were among those present.
Beautiful and elaborate floral tokens were testimonials of love and esteem. Between 11 and 12:15 o'clock the remains were viewed by hundreds of friends.
The officiating clergymen were Rev. Dr. William Reed and Rev. James Caird. A quartette, composed of Ben Franklin, Edwin Humphrey, Fred C. Comstock and George H. Kewley, sang "Remember Thy Creator," Rhodes; "Lead, Kindly Light," Dykes, and "Abide With Me," Schmidt.
The bearers were Assemblyman Charles W. Reynolds of Petersburgh, District Attorney Wesley O. Howard and Sheriff Matthew A. Heeran, of Rensselaer; City Engineer E. R. Cary, School Commissioner Anthony P. Finder, James H. Potts, J. George Stiles and Sylvester N. Gardner.
Floral Offerings.
The floral tributes included a handsome wreath of American Beauty roses on a pedestal of Easter lilies, the base of which was made up of hydrangeas. This was several feet high. It was sent by the members of the State Senate. The Assembly's offering was a beautiful wreath. Other tokens were sent by Mount Zion Lodge, F. and A. M.; Lieut. Gov. Timothy L. Woodruff, the teachers of School 9, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Wheeler, John Munton, Mrs. Trumble, Mr. and Mrs. H. K. Downing, Mr. and Mrs. A. P. Finder, Charles S. Francis, Assemblyman C. W. Reynolds, Ex-Gov. and Mrs. Frank S. Black, the sisters of Mrs. Russell, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Loomis, Miss Herrick of Albany and Henry and John Sherburne, of Amsterdam.
Many Officials Present.
Those who attended included Col. H. K. Bird, Military Secretary, representing Governor Odell; Secretary of State John T. McDonough, Senators McEwen, Fuller, Wagner, Martin, Marshall. Donnelly, Ambler and Brackett; Assemblymen Galbraith, Ahern, Coughtry, Kelly and Frisbie; James S. Whipple, Clerk of the Senate; L. B. Gleason, Heading Clerk of the Senate; Sergeant-at-Arms Hotaling of the Senate, Sergeant-at-Arms Johnston of the Assembly, Pages Farrell and Halsted, ex-Gov. Frank S. Black, Congressman William H. Draper, County Judge Henry T. Nason, County Treasurer Elias P. Mann, County Clerk Francis Riley. Superintendent of the Poor Levi E. Worden, Assistant District Attorney O'Brien, Coroners Meredith, Thompson and Tarbell; Supervisor M. F. Hemingway, Supervisor Knaupp, Secretary John W. Roberts, representing Mayor Conway; Assessors Jacob V. Jacobs, W. H. Munn and Robert A. Patchke; ex-Supervisor James M. Wendell of North Greenbush, ex-Assemblyman George Anderson of Castleton, James Thompson of Valley Falls, District Attorney's Officers Kaye and Murnane, John D. Kittell, keeper of the County House; Hon. Martin I. Townsend, Comptroller Rickerson, Deputy Comptroller Strecker and Clerk E. Ogden Ross, Charles Corliss, Aldermen Barnes and Fradenburgh, Deputy Sheriff Stone and Col. Isaac F. Handy, aid-de-camp on the staff of the Department Commander, G. A. R., and many veterans.
Mount Zion Lodge was represented by an escort including George H. Cole, W. W. Wood, F. C. Morey, F. A. Plum, Henry Broughton, William H. Lane, Robert T. Cary and Harry P. Fielding.
The Interment.
The funeral procession accompanied the remains to the Union depot whence a train was taken at 2:10 o'clock for Amsterdam. The interment will be at Minaville this afternoon. Only relatives and close friends were present at the interment.
New York State Assembly, Rensselaer County, 3rd District, 1898–1900
Bvt. Capt. and 1st Lieut., Co. I, 169th N.Y., G.A.R.
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RUSSELL, MICHAEL. – Age, 19 years. Enrolled, August 30, 1862, at Troy, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. H, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth N. Y. Volunteer Infantry Regiment, October 6, 1862; promoted corporal, no date; sergeant, April 1, 1863; first sergeant, no date; mustered in as second lieutenant, October 31, 1864; as first lieutenant, to date September 16, 1864; transferred to Co. I, November 29, 1864; mustered out with company, July 19, 1865, at Raleigh, N. C.
Commissioned second lieutenant, September 16, 1864, with rank from August 16, 1864, vice E. R. Mosher promoted; first lieutenant, November 19, 1864, with rank from September 16, 1864, vice Jonas H. Warren promoted.
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Memoirs of Alonzo Alden (1834-1900), 1896, Collection of Williams College Library, Williamstown, Mass.
"The 169th Moves Against Fort Fisher the Second Time. Charge of the Third Brigade.
"The Third Brigade charged forward to a line of rifle trenches and gopher holes, filled with water, a distance of about 200 paces. Then, under the direction of Colonel Charles A. Carleton, chief of staff of General Ames, and under the command of Colonel Alden, the column moved to the front and right, diagonally, over a very uneven surface, encountering sand dunes and swamps; bursting shells, grape and canister, and sharpshooters' bullets, occasioning casualties with great frequency in all the regiments of the brigade, until at last we struck a road leading over a bridge that spanned a muddy swale or brook, over which the enemy's projectiles swept, producing many casualties.
"At this supremely critical point, Colonel Bell was about effecting the promised juncture with the charging column when he fell, mortally wounded with a minié ball through his bowels. Lieut. Michael Russell, one of the best officers of the 169th regiment, who was gallantly leading his company into that maelstrom of death, was shot through the lung with a minié ball and fell in the near proximity to the writer, supposed to be mortally wounded.
"The charging column passed the northwest flank of the fort and the sally port just at that point, to the rear of the northwest wing, and deployed under the cover of the elevated sand banks and sand mounds apparently covering magazines, bombproof quarters for troops, ammunition, and supplies for hospital purposes.
From this alignment, the Third Brigade fought the Confederate garrison of this northwest wing over the heaps of rubbish, wrecks of gun carriages, barracks and broken guns, the debris resulting from the naval bombardment; and over the shoulders of the irregular series of sand mounds which shielded the interior of the fort from any force outside.
"The eagle-eyes of the opposing forces would seek to detect a head or any part of the person of the enemy in the exposed entrances to the bombproofs of the north wing, when an effectual target practice would result disastrously to both of the contending forces."
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New York in the War of the Rebellion, 1861 to 1865, by Frederick Phisterer, Weed, Parsons and Company, Albany, 1890.
Roll of Honor for gallant and meritorious services in the late war. Brevets from the State.
THE Legislature in concurrent resolutions of April 24th and 28th, 1865, authorized the Executive of the State, "it being a sacred and grateful duty, to acknowledge in any suitable manner the personal sacrifice and heroic deeds of the officers and soldiers of this State, who have or may aid the Government of the United States in suppressing the existing wicked rebellion," to confer commissions with brevet rank, in any of the several grades which he is now authorized to confer, upon such officers and soldiers of the Volunteer forces of this State, as have or may distinguish themselves by gallantry in battle or meritorious and honorable conduct, which mark of honor shall be stated in the commission conferred.
Under this resolution the first commission was issued September 13, 1865, and the last January 30, 1882; and the following received brevet commissions accordingly.
RUSSELL, MICHAEL, First Lieutenant, 169th Infantry; Captain, October 22, 1867, for gallant and meritorious services in the late war.
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The Troy Daily Times (Supplement), October 13, 1900.
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES
MEN OF FINE RECORDS
Sketches of Their Lives
Facts about Representative Republicans of Rensselaer County – Frank S. Black, the Honored Leader – The Nominees for Legislative and County Offices – Their High Character and Valuable Public Service.
The Troy Times to-day presents what it believes to be one of the best campaign documents ever issued. In this Art Supplement it furnishes lifelike pictures and accurate and comprehensive sketches of the men who are the chosen leaders and standard bearers of the Republican party in Rensselaer County and the Congressional District of which, in union with Columbia County, it is a part.
Very properly, first place is given to Hon. Frank S. Black, ex-Governor of the State of New York and the brilliant and honored head of the Republican organization of Rensselaer County. Following this come in due order the candidates named for Congress, for the State Senate, for the Assembly and for County offices. These are all accompanied by excellent portraits of the gentlemen referred to. Thus the people of Rensselaer County and of this vicinity are enabled to form the acquaintance of these leaders and nominees, even if they do not know them personally.
The Art Supplement is one of the finest yet produced by The Troy Times, and will be valuable both for its political and artistic contents.
MICHAEL RUSSELL.
When the Republicans of Rensselaer County nominated Michael Russell for State Senator from the Thirtieth Senatorial District they selected the logical candidate and the man who above all others is by experience best qualified for the position. Mr. Russell’s legislative experience fits him most admirably for service in the State Senate, and he will go from the lower to the upper house of the Legislature with a prestige which will give him influence of great value to his constituents. Mr. Russell has served his party faithfully and with pronounced ability, and he thoroughly deserves the higher honor that the voters of this district will extend to him on the 6th of next month.
Michael Russell is a native of Troy. He was born in this city in 1844 and has resided here nearly all his life. His early education in the public schools of the city was cut short by his enlistment, when only eighteen years of age, as a private in Company H of the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth New York Volunteer Infantry, one of the "fighting regiments" of this state. For three years Mr. Russell saw active service at the front and participated in numerous battles, being finally seriously wounded. His bravery and soldierly ability led to his promotion through all the grades from private to Brevet Captain, with which rank he was mustered out of the service.
Returning from the war, Mr. Russell resided for a short time in Poughkeepsie, where he attended school. But in 1867 he returned to Troy and secured a position in the grocery business of Edgar F. Van Derzee, a comrade in the old regiment.
Later he was appointed to a clerkship in the Troy post office by General Alonzo Alden, his old Colonel, who was then Postmaster. While filling a night position in the employ of the federal government he studied law during the day in the office of District Attorney Wooster, thus manifesting those energetic qualities which have shown themselves so frequently since that time. He served with faithfulness and ability in the postal service and was promoted several times, until he finally became Deputy Postmaster under Judge Gilbert Robertson, Jr.
At the expiration of Judge Robertson's term Mr. Russell retired from the service and engaged in the grocery business at the corner of Congress Street and Pawling Avenue, where he has ever since been located and where he has gained the success that his sterling qualities deserve.
Mr. Russell has always been a stanch Republican and an indefatigable worker in the cause of good government. He has served as a delegate to state, congressional and county conventions and has always been found on the side of progressive Republicanism. In 1897 he was nominated for Member of Assembly from the Third District of Rensselaer County and was elected by a plurality of 1,811. In the Assembly of 1898 Mr. Russell served on the Railroads, Villages and Soldiers' Home Committees and so gained recognition among his fellow members as a hard worker and determined fighter.
In 1898 Mr. Russell was re-nominated and re-elected, his plurality over his Democratic opponent being 1,241. In the following session Mr. Russell was appointed to the Committees on Taxation and Retrenchment, Affairs of Villages and State Prisons.
Re-nominated last year, Mr. Russell was again victorious, his plurality being 1,445. Last winter he served on the important Committee on Ways and Means, as well as on the Public Education and Charitable and Religious Societies Committees. He was recognized as a Republican leader in the Assembly. During all of Mr. Russell's career in the Assembly he worked with a will to secure the passage of bills in which his constituents were interested, and it is doubtful if there was another member of the house who met with greater success in promoting legislation of benefit to his district.
Mr. Russell is a genuinely popular man. Approachable and sympathetic to a degree, he has won a host of warm friends and of admirers even among those who have been denied personal acquaintance with him. Naturally shrewd and farseeing, his legal studies have served him well, and no man could be selected who is better qualified to represent the party and the district in the Senate of New York State.
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The Troy Daily Times, March 26, 1901.
STRICKEN AT THE CAPITOL.
Senator Michael Russell Suffered a Stroke of Apoplexy – Unconscious in the Cloak Room – Taken to the Albany Hospital – His Condition Improved To-day.
Senator Michael Russell of this city was stricken with apoplexy at the Capitol in Albany shortly after 10 o'clock last night while in attendance upon the session of the Legislature. It was a few minutes after 8 o'clock when he reached the Senate chamber from his home in this city. He had been in poor health in the winter, and last evening upon arriving at the Capitol complained of feeling ill.
Would Not Desert His Post.
Several of his friends upon learning of his indisposition urged him to return home at once. He declined to leave his post of duty, however, and joined with his colleagues in the Senate proceedings for nearly two hours.
Toward 10 o'clock some of the newspaper correspondents, whose desks fronted that of Senator Russell, noticed that he seemed to be suffering great pain. Just at this juncture he was seen to arise from his chair in the Senate chamber and make his way laboriously to the cloak room.
Fell to the Floor.
One of the assistant janitors in waiting there at his request hastened to get his coat and hat for him. Meantime the Senator leaned heavily against a chair near at hand, and complained again of the intense pain in his head.
While he was being helped on with his overcoat he suddenly staggered and began sinking to the floor.
Carried to the Clerk's Room.
Assistance was quickly at hand, and he was carried to the private room of Clerk Whipple across the corridor. There he was laid upon a couch and messages were dispatched for physicians. He appeared to be in a sort of stupor at first, but soon rallied and asked for a glass of water.
The Diagnosis.
By this time Dr. Henry of the Assembly reached Senator Russell's side and made a hurried examination. He found that the Senator had suffered a stroke of apoplexy. The left side was affected and the tongue likewise. Nevertheless he was able to articulate with some difficulty, so that those about him could understand his wishes.
More Medical Aid.
A call for medical aid from the Albany Hospital had been sent, and Dr. Richardson speedily responded. He concurred in Dr. Henry's diagnosis of Senator Russell's illness. Both agreed that his condition then was not necessarily serious, although it would require several hours to determine just what progress the hemorrhage was making.
Removed to the Hospital.
As the judgment of both physicians was that Senator Russell ought not to be removed to his home under the circumstances the Albany Hospital ambulance was telephoned for, and soon afterward he was removed to that institution.
It is believed that a wound received by the Senator during the War of the Rebellion was to some extent responsible for his present illness.
The Family Summoned.
Word was dispatched to Mrs. Russell and her son, advising them of the Senator's illness, and they arrived in Albany as quickly as possible. They were driven to the hospital, where they were permitted to see the Senator for a short time.
With the Senator.
District Attorney W. O. Howard and Sheriff M. A. Heeran, who happened to be at the Capitol last evening, were in attendance upon Senator Russell after he succumbed to the stroke before his removal to the hospital. Assemblymen Galbraith and Ahern were also present.
His Condition To-day.
At the Albany Hospital this morning it was stated that the Senator had rested comfortably during the night and that his condition was improved. He had partially recovered consciousness.
A Comfortable Night.
Senator Russell's attending physicians, Dr. Richardson and Dr. S. B. Ward, informed The Times correspondent to-day that the patient had passed a comfortable night. He rested very well, and was apparently in complete possession of his mental faculties. So far as could be determined the paralysis had not spread.
Favorable Prospect.
Dr. Richardson said this morning that unless unforeseen developments set in he expected the Senator to recover sufficiently to be out and about in three or four weeks.
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The Troy Daily Times, May 6, 1901.
A Public Servant Faithful Unto Death.
Hon. Michael Russell, State Senator from the district composed of Rensselaer County, died to-day at his home in this city, after a long and brave struggle with illness.
The regret at the death of so good and so faithful a public servant as Senator Russell will be emphasized by the fact that his death resulted from his devotion to the people's interests. He was in truth a martyr to the public service.
The beginning of Senator Russell's illness dates back to the time when, as a volunteer soldier wearing the Union blue in the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment of New York, a rebel bullet penetrated his body, causing a wound from which he never entirely recovered. When he sat with aching head at his desk in the State Senate chamber one night, and would not permit physical distress to cause him to forsake his duties to his constituents, although implored by his associates to consider his own personal safety, the stroke of apoplexy fell upon him. In all the long struggle to rally from that prostrating blow, his old wound, sustained for the American Union, interfered with its harassing pain and obstructive influence. So Senator Russell died for his country, for his state, for his county, because his fidelity always placed the public service before personal comfort even when his own life was in the balance.
Such a consideration, appealing as it does to popular gratitude, is not needed to make the people of Rensselaer County feel the sense of bereavement in Senator Russell's death. He was trusted absolutely as an honest and honorable man. To make operative his fine sense of right, there was industry which was really amazing. Senator Russell's perseverance knew no bounds. He was for three terms in the Assembly, and it became proverbial that the bills introduced by him as Assemblyman were sure to pass. For his industry was accompanied by geniality, a warmhearted friendliness that disarmed all opposition. In his last term as Assemblyman he had become so conspicuous as a legislator of influence that he was placed on the foremost committee of the Assembly – the Committee on Ways and Means.
The popular majorities which Mr. Russell received were evidence that the people liked him and believed in him. He was a winning campaigner. He was omnipresent in his district, a stirring and convincing speaker on the public platform, with a sincere hand outstretched to everybody.
Senator Russell never betrayed a trust which the people placed in his hands. When a bill was introduced in the state Assembly which would have classed Troy's collar workers in the same category with the employes of the sweatshops of New York city, Senator Russell said that it must not be. He aroused the collar manufacturers and led an organized opposition that held the entire bill motionless until the obnoxious provision was eliminated.
It is a melancholy pleasure, mingled with the sombre solemnity of this event of death, to dwell upon the noble friendship, the inflexible fidelity, of this good citizen and earnest legislator. He was a tender and thoughtful husband and father, he was helpful to neighbors and friends, he was true to the Republican party, which represented his highest national ideals, whether he was on the battlefield or in the council halls of the state; he never wavered in his allegiance to those leaders upon whom his party had placed the responsibility of leadership, and the voice of the people was to him the authority of an unquestionable law.
Whatever opponents he might have in the marshaling of the forces of political partisanship, he had no personal enemies. Every voice will speak the mournful tones of regret that Michael Russell – comrade in the Republic's armies, Senator in his state's Legislature, loyal citizen and friend in heart and hand – has passed beyond the sound of earth's roll-calls.
~
The Troy Daily Times, May 8, 1901.
SENATOR RUSSELL'S FUNERAL.
A Large Attendance at the Service This Afternoon – Prominent Legislators Present – The Interment in Montgomery County.
The funeral of Senator Michael Russell was held this afternoon at 12:15 o'clock from the residence on Pine Woods Avenue, and was very largely attended by relatives, friends and officials who were associated with the deceased in public life. Delegations of state Senators and Assemblymen and Masonic representatives were among those present.
Beautiful and elaborate floral tokens were testimonials of love and esteem. Between 11 and 12:15 o'clock the remains were viewed by hundreds of friends.
The officiating clergymen were Rev. Dr. William Reed and Rev. James Caird. A quartette, composed of Ben Franklin, Edwin Humphrey, Fred C. Comstock and George H. Kewley, sang "Remember Thy Creator," Rhodes; "Lead, Kindly Light," Dykes, and "Abide With Me," Schmidt.
The bearers were Assemblyman Charles W. Reynolds of Petersburgh, District Attorney Wesley O. Howard and Sheriff Matthew A. Heeran, of Rensselaer; City Engineer E. R. Cary, School Commissioner Anthony P. Finder, James H. Potts, J. George Stiles and Sylvester N. Gardner.
Floral Offerings.
The floral tributes included a handsome wreath of American Beauty roses on a pedestal of Easter lilies, the base of which was made up of hydrangeas. This was several feet high. It was sent by the members of the State Senate. The Assembly's offering was a beautiful wreath. Other tokens were sent by Mount Zion Lodge, F. and A. M.; Lieut. Gov. Timothy L. Woodruff, the teachers of School 9, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Wheeler, John Munton, Mrs. Trumble, Mr. and Mrs. H. K. Downing, Mr. and Mrs. A. P. Finder, Charles S. Francis, Assemblyman C. W. Reynolds, Ex-Gov. and Mrs. Frank S. Black, the sisters of Mrs. Russell, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Loomis, Miss Herrick of Albany and Henry and John Sherburne, of Amsterdam.
Many Officials Present.
Those who attended included Col. H. K. Bird, Military Secretary, representing Governor Odell; Secretary of State John T. McDonough, Senators McEwen, Fuller, Wagner, Martin, Marshall. Donnelly, Ambler and Brackett; Assemblymen Galbraith, Ahern, Coughtry, Kelly and Frisbie; James S. Whipple, Clerk of the Senate; L. B. Gleason, Heading Clerk of the Senate; Sergeant-at-Arms Hotaling of the Senate, Sergeant-at-Arms Johnston of the Assembly, Pages Farrell and Halsted, ex-Gov. Frank S. Black, Congressman William H. Draper, County Judge Henry T. Nason, County Treasurer Elias P. Mann, County Clerk Francis Riley. Superintendent of the Poor Levi E. Worden, Assistant District Attorney O'Brien, Coroners Meredith, Thompson and Tarbell; Supervisor M. F. Hemingway, Supervisor Knaupp, Secretary John W. Roberts, representing Mayor Conway; Assessors Jacob V. Jacobs, W. H. Munn and Robert A. Patchke; ex-Supervisor James M. Wendell of North Greenbush, ex-Assemblyman George Anderson of Castleton, James Thompson of Valley Falls, District Attorney's Officers Kaye and Murnane, John D. Kittell, keeper of the County House; Hon. Martin I. Townsend, Comptroller Rickerson, Deputy Comptroller Strecker and Clerk E. Ogden Ross, Charles Corliss, Aldermen Barnes and Fradenburgh, Deputy Sheriff Stone and Col. Isaac F. Handy, aid-de-camp on the staff of the Department Commander, G. A. R., and many veterans.
Mount Zion Lodge was represented by an escort including George H. Cole, W. W. Wood, F. C. Morey, F. A. Plum, Henry Broughton, William H. Lane, Robert T. Cary and Harry P. Fielding.
The Interment.
The funeral procession accompanied the remains to the Union depot whence a train was taken at 2:10 o'clock for Amsterdam. The interment will be at Minaville this afternoon. Only relatives and close friends were present at the interment.
State Senator Michael Russell, 30th District of New York, 1901
New York State Assembly, Rensselaer County, 3rd District, 1898–1900
Bvt. Capt. and 1st Lieut., Co. I, 169th N.Y., G.A.R.
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RUSSELL, MICHAEL. – Age, 19 years. Enrolled, August 30, 1862, at Troy, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. H, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth N. Y. Volunteer Infantry Regiment, October 6, 1862; promoted corporal, no date; sergeant, April 1, 1863; first sergeant, no date; mustered in as second lieutenant, October 31, 1864; as first lieutenant, to date September 16, 1864; transferred to Co. I, November 29, 1864; mustered out with company, July 19, 1865, at Raleigh, N. C.
Commissioned second lieutenant, September 16, 1864, with rank from August 16, 1864, vice E. R. Mosher promoted; first lieutenant, November 19, 1864, with rank from September 16, 1864, vice Jonas H. Warren promoted.
~
Memoirs of Alonzo Alden (1834-1900), 1896, Collection of Williams College Library, Williamstown, Mass.
"The 169th Moves Against Fort Fisher the Second Time. Charge of the Third Brigade.
"The Third Brigade charged forward to a line of rifle trenches and gopher holes, filled with water, a distance of about 200 paces. Then, under the direction of Colonel Charles A. Carleton, chief of staff of General Ames, and under the command of Colonel Alden, the column moved to the front and right, diagonally, over a very uneven surface, encountering sand dunes and swamps; bursting shells, grape and canister, and sharpshooters' bullets, occasioning casualties with great frequency in all the regiments of the brigade, until at last we struck a road leading over a bridge that spanned a muddy swale or brook, over which the enemy's projectiles swept, producing many casualties.
"At this supremely critical point, Colonel Bell was about effecting the promised juncture with the charging column when he fell, mortally wounded with a minié ball through his bowels. Lieut. Michael Russell, one of the best officers of the 169th regiment, who was gallantly leading his company into that maelstrom of death, was shot through the lung with a minié ball and fell in the near proximity to the writer, supposed to be mortally wounded.
"The charging column passed the northwest flank of the fort and the sally port just at that point, to the rear of the northwest wing, and deployed under the cover of the elevated sand banks and sand mounds apparently covering magazines, bombproof quarters for troops, ammunition, and supplies for hospital purposes.
From this alignment, the Third Brigade fought the Confederate garrison of this northwest wing over the heaps of rubbish, wrecks of gun carriages, barracks and broken guns, the debris resulting from the naval bombardment; and over the shoulders of the irregular series of sand mounds which shielded the interior of the fort from any force outside.
"The eagle-eyes of the opposing forces would seek to detect a head or any part of the person of the enemy in the exposed entrances to the bombproofs of the north wing, when an effectual target practice would result disastrously to both of the contending forces."
~
New York in the War of the Rebellion, 1861 to 1865, by Frederick Phisterer, Weed, Parsons and Company, Albany, 1890.
Roll of Honor for gallant and meritorious services in the late war. Brevets from the State.
THE Legislature in concurrent resolutions of April 24th and 28th, 1865, authorized the Executive of the State, "it being a sacred and grateful duty, to acknowledge in any suitable manner the personal sacrifice and heroic deeds of the officers and soldiers of this State, who have or may aid the Government of the United States in suppressing the existing wicked rebellion," to confer commissions with brevet rank, in any of the several grades which he is now authorized to confer, upon such officers and soldiers of the Volunteer forces of this State, as have or may distinguish themselves by gallantry in battle or meritorious and honorable conduct, which mark of honor shall be stated in the commission conferred.
Under this resolution the first commission was issued September 13, 1865, and the last January 30, 1882; and the following received brevet commissions accordingly.
RUSSELL, MICHAEL, First Lieutenant, 169th Infantry; Captain, October 22, 1867, for gallant and meritorious services in the late war.
~
The Troy Daily Times (Supplement), October 13, 1900.
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES
MEN OF FINE RECORDS
Sketches of Their Lives
Facts about Representative Republicans of Rensselaer County – Frank S. Black, the Honored Leader – The Nominees for Legislative and County Offices – Their High Character and Valuable Public Service.
The Troy Times to-day presents what it believes to be one of the best campaign documents ever issued. In this Art Supplement it furnishes lifelike pictures and accurate and comprehensive sketches of the men who are the chosen leaders and standard bearers of the Republican party in Rensselaer County and the Congressional District of which, in union with Columbia County, it is a part.
Very properly, first place is given to Hon. Frank S. Black, ex-Governor of the State of New York and the brilliant and honored head of the Republican organization of Rensselaer County. Following this come in due order the candidates named for Congress, for the State Senate, for the Assembly and for County offices. These are all accompanied by excellent portraits of the gentlemen referred to. Thus the people of Rensselaer County and of this vicinity are enabled to form the acquaintance of these leaders and nominees, even if they do not know them personally.
The Art Supplement is one of the finest yet produced by The Troy Times, and will be valuable both for its political and artistic contents.
MICHAEL RUSSELL.
When the Republicans of Rensselaer County nominated Michael Russell for State Senator from the Thirtieth Senatorial District they selected the logical candidate and the man who above all others is by experience best qualified for the position. Mr. Russell’s legislative experience fits him most admirably for service in the State Senate, and he will go from the lower to the upper house of the Legislature with a prestige which will give him influence of great value to his constituents. Mr. Russell has served his party faithfully and with pronounced ability, and he thoroughly deserves the higher honor that the voters of this district will extend to him on the 6th of next month.
Michael Russell is a native of Troy. He was born in this city in 1844 and has resided here nearly all his life. His early education in the public schools of the city was cut short by his enlistment, when only eighteen years of age, as a private in Company H of the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth New York Volunteer Infantry, one of the "fighting regiments" of this state. For three years Mr. Russell saw active service at the front and participated in numerous battles, being finally seriously wounded. His bravery and soldierly ability led to his promotion through all the grades from private to Brevet Captain, with which rank he was mustered out of the service.
Returning from the war, Mr. Russell resided for a short time in Poughkeepsie, where he attended school. But in 1867 he returned to Troy and secured a position in the grocery business of Edgar F. Van Derzee, a comrade in the old regiment.
Later he was appointed to a clerkship in the Troy post office by General Alonzo Alden, his old Colonel, who was then Postmaster. While filling a night position in the employ of the federal government he studied law during the day in the office of District Attorney Wooster, thus manifesting those energetic qualities which have shown themselves so frequently since that time. He served with faithfulness and ability in the postal service and was promoted several times, until he finally became Deputy Postmaster under Judge Gilbert Robertson, Jr.
At the expiration of Judge Robertson's term Mr. Russell retired from the service and engaged in the grocery business at the corner of Congress Street and Pawling Avenue, where he has ever since been located and where he has gained the success that his sterling qualities deserve.
Mr. Russell has always been a stanch Republican and an indefatigable worker in the cause of good government. He has served as a delegate to state, congressional and county conventions and has always been found on the side of progressive Republicanism. In 1897 he was nominated for Member of Assembly from the Third District of Rensselaer County and was elected by a plurality of 1,811. In the Assembly of 1898 Mr. Russell served on the Railroads, Villages and Soldiers' Home Committees and so gained recognition among his fellow members as a hard worker and determined fighter.
In 1898 Mr. Russell was re-nominated and re-elected, his plurality over his Democratic opponent being 1,241. In the following session Mr. Russell was appointed to the Committees on Taxation and Retrenchment, Affairs of Villages and State Prisons.
Re-nominated last year, Mr. Russell was again victorious, his plurality being 1,445. Last winter he served on the important Committee on Ways and Means, as well as on the Public Education and Charitable and Religious Societies Committees. He was recognized as a Republican leader in the Assembly. During all of Mr. Russell's career in the Assembly he worked with a will to secure the passage of bills in which his constituents were interested, and it is doubtful if there was another member of the house who met with greater success in promoting legislation of benefit to his district.
Mr. Russell is a genuinely popular man. Approachable and sympathetic to a degree, he has won a host of warm friends and of admirers even among those who have been denied personal acquaintance with him. Naturally shrewd and farseeing, his legal studies have served him well, and no man could be selected who is better qualified to represent the party and the district in the Senate of New York State.
~
The Troy Daily Times, March 26, 1901.
STRICKEN AT THE CAPITOL.
Senator Michael Russell Suffered a Stroke of Apoplexy – Unconscious in the Cloak Room – Taken to the Albany Hospital – His Condition Improved To-day.
Senator Michael Russell of this city was stricken with apoplexy at the Capitol in Albany shortly after 10 o'clock last night while in attendance upon the session of the Legislature. It was a few minutes after 8 o'clock when he reached the Senate chamber from his home in this city. He had been in poor health in the winter, and last evening upon arriving at the Capitol complained of feeling ill.
Would Not Desert His Post.
Several of his friends upon learning of his indisposition urged him to return home at once. He declined to leave his post of duty, however, and joined with his colleagues in the Senate proceedings for nearly two hours.
Toward 10 o'clock some of the newspaper correspondents, whose desks fronted that of Senator Russell, noticed that he seemed to be suffering great pain. Just at this juncture he was seen to arise from his chair in the Senate chamber and make his way laboriously to the cloak room.
Fell to the Floor.
One of the assistant janitors in waiting there at his request hastened to get his coat and hat for him. Meantime the Senator leaned heavily against a chair near at hand, and complained again of the intense pain in his head.
While he was being helped on with his overcoat he suddenly staggered and began sinking to the floor.
Carried to the Clerk's Room.
Assistance was quickly at hand, and he was carried to the private room of Clerk Whipple across the corridor. There he was laid upon a couch and messages were dispatched for physicians. He appeared to be in a sort of stupor at first, but soon rallied and asked for a glass of water.
The Diagnosis.
By this time Dr. Henry of the Assembly reached Senator Russell's side and made a hurried examination. He found that the Senator had suffered a stroke of apoplexy. The left side was affected and the tongue likewise. Nevertheless he was able to articulate with some difficulty, so that those about him could understand his wishes.
More Medical Aid.
A call for medical aid from the Albany Hospital had been sent, and Dr. Richardson speedily responded. He concurred in Dr. Henry's diagnosis of Senator Russell's illness. Both agreed that his condition then was not necessarily serious, although it would require several hours to determine just what progress the hemorrhage was making.
Removed to the Hospital.
As the judgment of both physicians was that Senator Russell ought not to be removed to his home under the circumstances the Albany Hospital ambulance was telephoned for, and soon afterward he was removed to that institution.
It is believed that a wound received by the Senator during the War of the Rebellion was to some extent responsible for his present illness.
The Family Summoned.
Word was dispatched to Mrs. Russell and her son, advising them of the Senator's illness, and they arrived in Albany as quickly as possible. They were driven to the hospital, where they were permitted to see the Senator for a short time.
With the Senator.
District Attorney W. O. Howard and Sheriff M. A. Heeran, who happened to be at the Capitol last evening, were in attendance upon Senator Russell after he succumbed to the stroke before his removal to the hospital. Assemblymen Galbraith and Ahern were also present.
His Condition To-day.
At the Albany Hospital this morning it was stated that the Senator had rested comfortably during the night and that his condition was improved. He had partially recovered consciousness.
A Comfortable Night.
Senator Russell's attending physicians, Dr. Richardson and Dr. S. B. Ward, informed The Times correspondent to-day that the patient had passed a comfortable night. He rested very well, and was apparently in complete possession of his mental faculties. So far as could be determined the paralysis had not spread.
Favorable Prospect.
Dr. Richardson said this morning that unless unforeseen developments set in he expected the Senator to recover sufficiently to be out and about in three or four weeks.
~
The Troy Daily Times, May 6, 1901.
A Public Servant Faithful Unto Death.
Hon. Michael Russell, State Senator from the district composed of Rensselaer County, died to-day at his home in this city, after a long and brave struggle with illness.
The regret at the death of so good and so faithful a public servant as Senator Russell will be emphasized by the fact that his death resulted from his devotion to the people's interests. He was in truth a martyr to the public service.
The beginning of Senator Russell's illness dates back to the time when, as a volunteer soldier wearing the Union blue in the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment of New York, a rebel bullet penetrated his body, causing a wound from which he never entirely recovered. When he sat with aching head at his desk in the State Senate chamber one night, and would not permit physical distress to cause him to forsake his duties to his constituents, although implored by his associates to consider his own personal safety, the stroke of apoplexy fell upon him. In all the long struggle to rally from that prostrating blow, his old wound, sustained for the American Union, interfered with its harassing pain and obstructive influence. So Senator Russell died for his country, for his state, for his county, because his fidelity always placed the public service before personal comfort even when his own life was in the balance.
Such a consideration, appealing as it does to popular gratitude, is not needed to make the people of Rensselaer County feel the sense of bereavement in Senator Russell's death. He was trusted absolutely as an honest and honorable man. To make operative his fine sense of right, there was industry which was really amazing. Senator Russell's perseverance knew no bounds. He was for three terms in the Assembly, and it became proverbial that the bills introduced by him as Assemblyman were sure to pass. For his industry was accompanied by geniality, a warmhearted friendliness that disarmed all opposition. In his last term as Assemblyman he had become so conspicuous as a legislator of influence that he was placed on the foremost committee of the Assembly – the Committee on Ways and Means.
The popular majorities which Mr. Russell received were evidence that the people liked him and believed in him. He was a winning campaigner. He was omnipresent in his district, a stirring and convincing speaker on the public platform, with a sincere hand outstretched to everybody.
Senator Russell never betrayed a trust which the people placed in his hands. When a bill was introduced in the state Assembly which would have classed Troy's collar workers in the same category with the employes of the sweatshops of New York city, Senator Russell said that it must not be. He aroused the collar manufacturers and led an organized opposition that held the entire bill motionless until the obnoxious provision was eliminated.
It is a melancholy pleasure, mingled with the sombre solemnity of this event of death, to dwell upon the noble friendship, the inflexible fidelity, of this good citizen and earnest legislator. He was a tender and thoughtful husband and father, he was helpful to neighbors and friends, he was true to the Republican party, which represented his highest national ideals, whether he was on the battlefield or in the council halls of the state; he never wavered in his allegiance to those leaders upon whom his party had placed the responsibility of leadership, and the voice of the people was to him the authority of an unquestionable law.
Whatever opponents he might have in the marshaling of the forces of political partisanship, he had no personal enemies. Every voice will speak the mournful tones of regret that Michael Russell – comrade in the Republic's armies, Senator in his state's Legislature, loyal citizen and friend in heart and hand – has passed beyond the sound of earth's roll-calls.
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The Troy Daily Times, May 8, 1901.
SENATOR RUSSELL'S FUNERAL.
A Large Attendance at the Service This Afternoon – Prominent Legislators Present – The Interment in Montgomery County.
The funeral of Senator Michael Russell was held this afternoon at 12:15 o'clock from the residence on Pine Woods Avenue, and was very largely attended by relatives, friends and officials who were associated with the deceased in public life. Delegations of state Senators and Assemblymen and Masonic representatives were among those present.
Beautiful and elaborate floral tokens were testimonials of love and esteem. Between 11 and 12:15 o'clock the remains were viewed by hundreds of friends.
The officiating clergymen were Rev. Dr. William Reed and Rev. James Caird. A quartette, composed of Ben Franklin, Edwin Humphrey, Fred C. Comstock and George H. Kewley, sang "Remember Thy Creator," Rhodes; "Lead, Kindly Light," Dykes, and "Abide With Me," Schmidt.
The bearers were Assemblyman Charles W. Reynolds of Petersburgh, District Attorney Wesley O. Howard and Sheriff Matthew A. Heeran, of Rensselaer; City Engineer E. R. Cary, School Commissioner Anthony P. Finder, James H. Potts, J. George Stiles and Sylvester N. Gardner.
Floral Offerings.
The floral tributes included a handsome wreath of American Beauty roses on a pedestal of Easter lilies, the base of which was made up of hydrangeas. This was several feet high. It was sent by the members of the State Senate. The Assembly's offering was a beautiful wreath. Other tokens were sent by Mount Zion Lodge, F. and A. M.; Lieut. Gov. Timothy L. Woodruff, the teachers of School 9, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Wheeler, John Munton, Mrs. Trumble, Mr. and Mrs. H. K. Downing, Mr. and Mrs. A. P. Finder, Charles S. Francis, Assemblyman C. W. Reynolds, Ex-Gov. and Mrs. Frank S. Black, the sisters of Mrs. Russell, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Loomis, Miss Herrick of Albany and Henry and John Sherburne, of Amsterdam.
Many Officials Present.
Those who attended included Col. H. K. Bird, Military Secretary, representing Governor Odell; Secretary of State John T. McDonough, Senators McEwen, Fuller, Wagner, Martin, Marshall. Donnelly, Ambler and Brackett; Assemblymen Galbraith, Ahern, Coughtry, Kelly and Frisbie; James S. Whipple, Clerk of the Senate; L. B. Gleason, Heading Clerk of the Senate; Sergeant-at-Arms Hotaling of the Senate, Sergeant-at-Arms Johnston of the Assembly, Pages Farrell and Halsted, ex-Gov. Frank S. Black, Congressman William H. Draper, County Judge Henry T. Nason, County Treasurer Elias P. Mann, County Clerk Francis Riley. Superintendent of the Poor Levi E. Worden, Assistant District Attorney O'Brien, Coroners Meredith, Thompson and Tarbell; Supervisor M. F. Hemingway, Supervisor Knaupp, Secretary John W. Roberts, representing Mayor Conway; Assessors Jacob V. Jacobs, W. H. Munn and Robert A. Patchke; ex-Supervisor James M. Wendell of North Greenbush, ex-Assemblyman George Anderson of Castleton, James Thompson of Valley Falls, District Attorney's Officers Kaye and Murnane, John D. Kittell, keeper of the County House; Hon. Martin I. Townsend, Comptroller Rickerson, Deputy Comptroller Strecker and Clerk E. Ogden Ross, Charles Corliss, Aldermen Barnes and Fradenburgh, Deputy Sheriff Stone and Col. Isaac F. Handy, aid-de-camp on the staff of the Department Commander, G. A. R., and many veterans.
Mount Zion Lodge was represented by an escort including George H. Cole, W. W. Wood, F. C. Morey, F. A. Plum, Henry Broughton, William H. Lane, Robert T. Cary and Harry P. Fielding.
The Interment.
The funeral procession accompanied the remains to the Union depot whence a train was taken at 2:10 o'clock for Amsterdam. The interment will be at Minaville this afternoon. Only relatives and close friends were present at the interment.
New York State Assembly, Rensselaer County, 3rd District, 1898–1900
Bvt. Capt. and 1st Lieut., Co. I, 169th N.Y., G.A.R.
~
RUSSELL, MICHAEL. – Age, 19 years. Enrolled, August 30, 1862, at Troy, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. H, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth N. Y. Volunteer Infantry Regiment, October 6, 1862; promoted corporal, no date; sergeant, April 1, 1863; first sergeant, no date; mustered in as second lieutenant, October 31, 1864; as first lieutenant, to date September 16, 1864; transferred to Co. I, November 29, 1864; mustered out with company, July 19, 1865, at Raleigh, N. C.
Commissioned second lieutenant, September 16, 1864, with rank from August 16, 1864, vice E. R. Mosher promoted; first lieutenant, November 19, 1864, with rank from September 16, 1864, vice Jonas H. Warren promoted.
~
Memoirs of Alonzo Alden (1834-1900), 1896, Collection of Williams College Library, Williamstown, Mass.
"The 169th Moves Against Fort Fisher the Second Time. Charge of the Third Brigade.
"The Third Brigade charged forward to a line of rifle trenches and gopher holes, filled with water, a distance of about 200 paces. Then, under the direction of Colonel Charles A. Carleton, chief of staff of General Ames, and under the command of Colonel Alden, the column moved to the front and right, diagonally, over a very uneven surface, encountering sand dunes and swamps; bursting shells, grape and canister, and sharpshooters' bullets, occasioning casualties with great frequency in all the regiments of the brigade, until at last we struck a road leading over a bridge that spanned a muddy swale or brook, over which the enemy's projectiles swept, producing many casualties.
"At this supremely critical point, Colonel Bell was about effecting the promised juncture with the charging column when he fell, mortally wounded with a minié ball through his bowels. Lieut. Michael Russell, one of the best officers of the 169th regiment, who was gallantly leading his company into that maelstrom of death, was shot through the lung with a minié ball and fell in the near proximity to the writer, supposed to be mortally wounded.
"The charging column passed the northwest flank of the fort and the sally port just at that point, to the rear of the northwest wing, and deployed under the cover of the elevated sand banks and sand mounds apparently covering magazines, bombproof quarters for troops, ammunition, and supplies for hospital purposes.
From this alignment, the Third Brigade fought the Confederate garrison of this northwest wing over the heaps of rubbish, wrecks of gun carriages, barracks and broken guns, the debris resulting from the naval bombardment; and over the shoulders of the irregular series of sand mounds which shielded the interior of the fort from any force outside.
"The eagle-eyes of the opposing forces would seek to detect a head or any part of the person of the enemy in the exposed entrances to the bombproofs of the north wing, when an effectual target practice would result disastrously to both of the contending forces."
~
New York in the War of the Rebellion, 1861 to 1865, by Frederick Phisterer, Weed, Parsons and Company, Albany, 1890.
Roll of Honor for gallant and meritorious services in the late war. Brevets from the State.
THE Legislature in concurrent resolutions of April 24th and 28th, 1865, authorized the Executive of the State, "it being a sacred and grateful duty, to acknowledge in any suitable manner the personal sacrifice and heroic deeds of the officers and soldiers of this State, who have or may aid the Government of the United States in suppressing the existing wicked rebellion," to confer commissions with brevet rank, in any of the several grades which he is now authorized to confer, upon such officers and soldiers of the Volunteer forces of this State, as have or may distinguish themselves by gallantry in battle or meritorious and honorable conduct, which mark of honor shall be stated in the commission conferred.
Under this resolution the first commission was issued September 13, 1865, and the last January 30, 1882; and the following received brevet commissions accordingly.
RUSSELL, MICHAEL, First Lieutenant, 169th Infantry; Captain, October 22, 1867, for gallant and meritorious services in the late war.
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The Troy Daily Times (Supplement), October 13, 1900.
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES
MEN OF FINE RECORDS
Sketches of Their Lives
Facts about Representative Republicans of Rensselaer County – Frank S. Black, the Honored Leader – The Nominees for Legislative and County Offices – Their High Character and Valuable Public Service.
The Troy Times to-day presents what it believes to be one of the best campaign documents ever issued. In this Art Supplement it furnishes lifelike pictures and accurate and comprehensive sketches of the men who are the chosen leaders and standard bearers of the Republican party in Rensselaer County and the Congressional District of which, in union with Columbia County, it is a part.
Very properly, first place is given to Hon. Frank S. Black, ex-Governor of the State of New York and the brilliant and honored head of the Republican organization of Rensselaer County. Following this come in due order the candidates named for Congress, for the State Senate, for the Assembly and for County offices. These are all accompanied by excellent portraits of the gentlemen referred to. Thus the people of Rensselaer County and of this vicinity are enabled to form the acquaintance of these leaders and nominees, even if they do not know them personally.
The Art Supplement is one of the finest yet produced by The Troy Times, and will be valuable both for its political and artistic contents.
MICHAEL RUSSELL.
When the Republicans of Rensselaer County nominated Michael Russell for State Senator from the Thirtieth Senatorial District they selected the logical candidate and the man who above all others is by experience best qualified for the position. Mr. Russell’s legislative experience fits him most admirably for service in the State Senate, and he will go from the lower to the upper house of the Legislature with a prestige which will give him influence of great value to his constituents. Mr. Russell has served his party faithfully and with pronounced ability, and he thoroughly deserves the higher honor that the voters of this district will extend to him on the 6th of next month.
Michael Russell is a native of Troy. He was born in this city in 1844 and has resided here nearly all his life. His early education in the public schools of the city was cut short by his enlistment, when only eighteen years of age, as a private in Company H of the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth New York Volunteer Infantry, one of the "fighting regiments" of this state. For three years Mr. Russell saw active service at the front and participated in numerous battles, being finally seriously wounded. His bravery and soldierly ability led to his promotion through all the grades from private to Brevet Captain, with which rank he was mustered out of the service.
Returning from the war, Mr. Russell resided for a short time in Poughkeepsie, where he attended school. But in 1867 he returned to Troy and secured a position in the grocery business of Edgar F. Van Derzee, a comrade in the old regiment.
Later he was appointed to a clerkship in the Troy post office by General Alonzo Alden, his old Colonel, who was then Postmaster. While filling a night position in the employ of the federal government he studied law during the day in the office of District Attorney Wooster, thus manifesting those energetic qualities which have shown themselves so frequently since that time. He served with faithfulness and ability in the postal service and was promoted several times, until he finally became Deputy Postmaster under Judge Gilbert Robertson, Jr.
At the expiration of Judge Robertson's term Mr. Russell retired from the service and engaged in the grocery business at the corner of Congress Street and Pawling Avenue, where he has ever since been located and where he has gained the success that his sterling qualities deserve.
Mr. Russell has always been a stanch Republican and an indefatigable worker in the cause of good government. He has served as a delegate to state, congressional and county conventions and has always been found on the side of progressive Republicanism. In 1897 he was nominated for Member of Assembly from the Third District of Rensselaer County and was elected by a plurality of 1,811. In the Assembly of 1898 Mr. Russell served on the Railroads, Villages and Soldiers' Home Committees and so gained recognition among his fellow members as a hard worker and determined fighter.
In 1898 Mr. Russell was re-nominated and re-elected, his plurality over his Democratic opponent being 1,241. In the following session Mr. Russell was appointed to the Committees on Taxation and Retrenchment, Affairs of Villages and State Prisons.
Re-nominated last year, Mr. Russell was again victorious, his plurality being 1,445. Last winter he served on the important Committee on Ways and Means, as well as on the Public Education and Charitable and Religious Societies Committees. He was recognized as a Republican leader in the Assembly. During all of Mr. Russell's career in the Assembly he worked with a will to secure the passage of bills in which his constituents were interested, and it is doubtful if there was another member of the house who met with greater success in promoting legislation of benefit to his district.
Mr. Russell is a genuinely popular man. Approachable and sympathetic to a degree, he has won a host of warm friends and of admirers even among those who have been denied personal acquaintance with him. Naturally shrewd and farseeing, his legal studies have served him well, and no man could be selected who is better qualified to represent the party and the district in the Senate of New York State.
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The Troy Daily Times, March 26, 1901.
STRICKEN AT THE CAPITOL.
Senator Michael Russell Suffered a Stroke of Apoplexy – Unconscious in the Cloak Room – Taken to the Albany Hospital – His Condition Improved To-day.
Senator Michael Russell of this city was stricken with apoplexy at the Capitol in Albany shortly after 10 o'clock last night while in attendance upon the session of the Legislature. It was a few minutes after 8 o'clock when he reached the Senate chamber from his home in this city. He had been in poor health in the winter, and last evening upon arriving at the Capitol complained of feeling ill.
Would Not Desert His Post.
Several of his friends upon learning of his indisposition urged him to return home at once. He declined to leave his post of duty, however, and joined with his colleagues in the Senate proceedings for nearly two hours.
Toward 10 o'clock some of the newspaper correspondents, whose desks fronted that of Senator Russell, noticed that he seemed to be suffering great pain. Just at this juncture he was seen to arise from his chair in the Senate chamber and make his way laboriously to the cloak room.
Fell to the Floor.
One of the assistant janitors in waiting there at his request hastened to get his coat and hat for him. Meantime the Senator leaned heavily against a chair near at hand, and complained again of the intense pain in his head.
While he was being helped on with his overcoat he suddenly staggered and began sinking to the floor.
Carried to the Clerk's Room.
Assistance was quickly at hand, and he was carried to the private room of Clerk Whipple across the corridor. There he was laid upon a couch and messages were dispatched for physicians. He appeared to be in a sort of stupor at first, but soon rallied and asked for a glass of water.
The Diagnosis.
By this time Dr. Henry of the Assembly reached Senator Russell's side and made a hurried examination. He found that the Senator had suffered a stroke of apoplexy. The left side was affected and the tongue likewise. Nevertheless he was able to articulate with some difficulty, so that those about him could understand his wishes.
More Medical Aid.
A call for medical aid from the Albany Hospital had been sent, and Dr. Richardson speedily responded. He concurred in Dr. Henry's diagnosis of Senator Russell's illness. Both agreed that his condition then was not necessarily serious, although it would require several hours to determine just what progress the hemorrhage was making.
Removed to the Hospital.
As the judgment of both physicians was that Senator Russell ought not to be removed to his home under the circumstances the Albany Hospital ambulance was telephoned for, and soon afterward he was removed to that institution.
It is believed that a wound received by the Senator during the War of the Rebellion was to some extent responsible for his present illness.
The Family Summoned.
Word was dispatched to Mrs. Russell and her son, advising them of the Senator's illness, and they arrived in Albany as quickly as possible. They were driven to the hospital, where they were permitted to see the Senator for a short time.
With the Senator.
District Attorney W. O. Howard and Sheriff M. A. Heeran, who happened to be at the Capitol last evening, were in attendance upon Senator Russell after he succumbed to the stroke before his removal to the hospital. Assemblymen Galbraith and Ahern were also present.
His Condition To-day.
At the Albany Hospital this morning it was stated that the Senator had rested comfortably during the night and that his condition was improved. He had partially recovered consciousness.
A Comfortable Night.
Senator Russell's attending physicians, Dr. Richardson and Dr. S. B. Ward, informed The Times correspondent to-day that the patient had passed a comfortable night. He rested very well, and was apparently in complete possession of his mental faculties. So far as could be determined the paralysis had not spread.
Favorable Prospect.
Dr. Richardson said this morning that unless unforeseen developments set in he expected the Senator to recover sufficiently to be out and about in three or four weeks.
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The Troy Daily Times, May 6, 1901.
A Public Servant Faithful Unto Death.
Hon. Michael Russell, State Senator from the district composed of Rensselaer County, died to-day at his home in this city, after a long and brave struggle with illness.
The regret at the death of so good and so faithful a public servant as Senator Russell will be emphasized by the fact that his death resulted from his devotion to the people's interests. He was in truth a martyr to the public service.
The beginning of Senator Russell's illness dates back to the time when, as a volunteer soldier wearing the Union blue in the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment of New York, a rebel bullet penetrated his body, causing a wound from which he never entirely recovered. When he sat with aching head at his desk in the State Senate chamber one night, and would not permit physical distress to cause him to forsake his duties to his constituents, although implored by his associates to consider his own personal safety, the stroke of apoplexy fell upon him. In all the long struggle to rally from that prostrating blow, his old wound, sustained for the American Union, interfered with its harassing pain and obstructive influence. So Senator Russell died for his country, for his state, for his county, because his fidelity always placed the public service before personal comfort even when his own life was in the balance.
Such a consideration, appealing as it does to popular gratitude, is not needed to make the people of Rensselaer County feel the sense of bereavement in Senator Russell's death. He was trusted absolutely as an honest and honorable man. To make operative his fine sense of right, there was industry which was really amazing. Senator Russell's perseverance knew no bounds. He was for three terms in the Assembly, and it became proverbial that the bills introduced by him as Assemblyman were sure to pass. For his industry was accompanied by geniality, a warmhearted friendliness that disarmed all opposition. In his last term as Assemblyman he had become so conspicuous as a legislator of influence that he was placed on the foremost committee of the Assembly – the Committee on Ways and Means.
The popular majorities which Mr. Russell received were evidence that the people liked him and believed in him. He was a winning campaigner. He was omnipresent in his district, a stirring and convincing speaker on the public platform, with a sincere hand outstretched to everybody.
Senator Russell never betrayed a trust which the people placed in his hands. When a bill was introduced in the state Assembly which would have classed Troy's collar workers in the same category with the employes of the sweatshops of New York city, Senator Russell said that it must not be. He aroused the collar manufacturers and led an organized opposition that held the entire bill motionless until the obnoxious provision was eliminated.
It is a melancholy pleasure, mingled with the sombre solemnity of this event of death, to dwell upon the noble friendship, the inflexible fidelity, of this good citizen and earnest legislator. He was a tender and thoughtful husband and father, he was helpful to neighbors and friends, he was true to the Republican party, which represented his highest national ideals, whether he was on the battlefield or in the council halls of the state; he never wavered in his allegiance to those leaders upon whom his party had placed the responsibility of leadership, and the voice of the people was to him the authority of an unquestionable law.
Whatever opponents he might have in the marshaling of the forces of political partisanship, he had no personal enemies. Every voice will speak the mournful tones of regret that Michael Russell – comrade in the Republic's armies, Senator in his state's Legislature, loyal citizen and friend in heart and hand – has passed beyond the sound of earth's roll-calls.
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The Troy Daily Times, May 8, 1901.
SENATOR RUSSELL'S FUNERAL.
A Large Attendance at the Service This Afternoon – Prominent Legislators Present – The Interment in Montgomery County.
The funeral of Senator Michael Russell was held this afternoon at 12:15 o'clock from the residence on Pine Woods Avenue, and was very largely attended by relatives, friends and officials who were associated with the deceased in public life. Delegations of state Senators and Assemblymen and Masonic representatives were among those present.
Beautiful and elaborate floral tokens were testimonials of love and esteem. Between 11 and 12:15 o'clock the remains were viewed by hundreds of friends.
The officiating clergymen were Rev. Dr. William Reed and Rev. James Caird. A quartette, composed of Ben Franklin, Edwin Humphrey, Fred C. Comstock and George H. Kewley, sang "Remember Thy Creator," Rhodes; "Lead, Kindly Light," Dykes, and "Abide With Me," Schmidt.
The bearers were Assemblyman Charles W. Reynolds of Petersburgh, District Attorney Wesley O. Howard and Sheriff Matthew A. Heeran, of Rensselaer; City Engineer E. R. Cary, School Commissioner Anthony P. Finder, James H. Potts, J. George Stiles and Sylvester N. Gardner.
Floral Offerings.
The floral tributes included a handsome wreath of American Beauty roses on a pedestal of Easter lilies, the base of which was made up of hydrangeas. This was several feet high. It was sent by the members of the State Senate. The Assembly's offering was a beautiful wreath. Other tokens were sent by Mount Zion Lodge, F. and A. M.; Lieut. Gov. Timothy L. Woodruff, the teachers of School 9, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Wheeler, John Munton, Mrs. Trumble, Mr. and Mrs. H. K. Downing, Mr. and Mrs. A. P. Finder, Charles S. Francis, Assemblyman C. W. Reynolds, Ex-Gov. and Mrs. Frank S. Black, the sisters of Mrs. Russell, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Loomis, Miss Herrick of Albany and Henry and John Sherburne, of Amsterdam.
Many Officials Present.
Those who attended included Col. H. K. Bird, Military Secretary, representing Governor Odell; Secretary of State John T. McDonough, Senators McEwen, Fuller, Wagner, Martin, Marshall. Donnelly, Ambler and Brackett; Assemblymen Galbraith, Ahern, Coughtry, Kelly and Frisbie; James S. Whipple, Clerk of the Senate; L. B. Gleason, Heading Clerk of the Senate; Sergeant-at-Arms Hotaling of the Senate, Sergeant-at-Arms Johnston of the Assembly, Pages Farrell and Halsted, ex-Gov. Frank S. Black, Congressman William H. Draper, County Judge Henry T. Nason, County Treasurer Elias P. Mann, County Clerk Francis Riley. Superintendent of the Poor Levi E. Worden, Assistant District Attorney O'Brien, Coroners Meredith, Thompson and Tarbell; Supervisor M. F. Hemingway, Supervisor Knaupp, Secretary John W. Roberts, representing Mayor Conway; Assessors Jacob V. Jacobs, W. H. Munn and Robert A. Patchke; ex-Supervisor James M. Wendell of North Greenbush, ex-Assemblyman George Anderson of Castleton, James Thompson of Valley Falls, District Attorney's Officers Kaye and Murnane, John D. Kittell, keeper of the County House; Hon. Martin I. Townsend, Comptroller Rickerson, Deputy Comptroller Strecker and Clerk E. Ogden Ross, Charles Corliss, Aldermen Barnes and Fradenburgh, Deputy Sheriff Stone and Col. Isaac F. Handy, aid-de-camp on the staff of the Department Commander, G. A. R., and many veterans.
Mount Zion Lodge was represented by an escort including George H. Cole, W. W. Wood, F. C. Morey, F. A. Plum, Henry Broughton, William H. Lane, Robert T. Cary and Harry P. Fielding.
The Interment.
The funeral procession accompanied the remains to the Union depot whence a train was taken at 2:10 o'clock for Amsterdam. The interment will be at Minaville this afternoon. Only relatives and close friends were present at the interment.
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MICHAEL RUSSELL 1844-1901
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