Walter Raleigh Danforth (April 1, 1787 – August 11, 1861) was a jurist, journalist, and 4th mayor of Providence, Rhode Island 1853-1854.
Danforth was born April 1, 1787, in Providence, Rhode Island,[2][3] son of Job Danforth.[4] He graduated from Brown University in 1805.[2][3] He studied law.[2]
Danforth was clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court for Providence County from 1807 to 1818 in the Court of Common Pleas.[2]
In 1820 he entered journalism as editor and joint owner of the Providence Gazette newspaper.[2][3] As a journalist, he became known for his wit and political satire.[1] The Gazette often supported the Federalists.[3] He was also affiliated with the publications the Microcosm, the Express, and the Republican Herald.[3]
Danforth was an ardent supporter of President Andrew Jackson, who appointed him Collector of Customs in Providence from 1829 until his retirement in 1841.[3] Danforth left retirement in 1853 to become mayor for a single term, and after that he was elected to a single term in the General Assembly.[3]
Danforth was also a historian and lecturer on the history of Providence.[1] He also led the Providence Association of Mechanics and Manufacturers, which is now known as the Board of Trade and Chamber of Commerce.[1]
Danforth died at his home in Providence August 11, 1861[2] and was buried at Swan Point Cemetery.
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