Oregon Historical Society

STARK, Benjamin, a Senator from Oregon; born in New Orleans, La., June 26, 1820; pursued classical studies and graduated from Union School, New London, Conn., and Hebron Academy; engaged in mercantile pursuits in New York City 1835-1848, and also studied law; moved to San Francisco, Calif., and engaged in mercantile pursuits 1849-1850, moving to Portland, Oreg., the latter year; admitted to the bar in 1850 and commenced practice in Portland, Oreg.; member, Territorial house of representatives 1852; served in the Oregon Indian hostilities in 1853 with the rank of colonel; member, State house of representatives 1860; appointed as a Democrat to the United States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Edward D. Baker and served from October 29, 1861, to September 12, 1862, when a successor was elected; was not a candidate for election; resumed the practice of law; moved to New London, Conn.; member of the board of aldermen of New London, Conn., 1873-1874; member, State house of representatives 1874; member of the Connecticut State Prison Commission; died in New London, Conn., October 10, 1898; interment in Cedar Grove Cemetery.