The Biographical Dictionary of America/Ames, Oakes

AMES, Oakes, manufacturer, was born in Easton, Mass , Jan. 10, 1804; the elder son of Oliver and Susanna (Angier) Ames. He early gained a thorough knowledge of the details of the shovel business, and became overseer of the manufactory. In 1860 Mr. Ames was elected councillor from the Bristol district, and served in the cabinet of Governor Andrew. He was in 1862 elected to represent his district in the 38th Congress, and was re-elected to four succeeding congresses. Prior to 1864 Congress had attempted, by offering land grants and other inducements, to persuade men of enterprise to open a railroad through the great central plains and so connect the east and west. Government interests imperatively needed such a a road. Urged by President Lincoln and others, Oakes Ames undertook this immense and hazardous work, risking his entire fortune in the enterprise, and though the difficulties to be overcome were very great, they were conquered, and on the 10th of May, 1869, the rails of the Union Pacific and the Central Pacific were joined, and the east and west united. This was seven years earlier than the terms of the contract required, and in the carriage of mails and the transportation of troops and supplies was of vast service to the government. The necessary limits of this sketch forbid adequate treatment of the Credit Mobilier affair, about which there has been much misunderstanding. It was simply a construction company similar to those by which other railroads were built at that time and afterwards. It was not until this matter was given a political turn that it became a subject of public scandal. Several representatives and senators in Congress were found to have an interest in it, and it is claimed that Mr. Ames had interested them thus, in order to influence their legislation. Congress ordered an investigation, and he was finally condemned and censured by the house of representatives for "Seeking" — so reads the resolve — "to procure congressional attention to the affairs of a corporation in which he was interested." The facts appear to be that no special legislation was expected or desired. Those congressmen who openly avowed their ownership in the stock retained public confidence, while those who, frightened by public clamor, denied their ownership, were politically ruined. Up to that time the honor and integrity of Oakes Ames had never been questioned, and those who knew him best gave no heed to the charge of corrupt intent on his part. In the spring of 1883 the legislature of Massachusetts passed resolutions of gratitude for his work, and faith in his integrity, and called for a like recognition on the part of the national Congress. Mr. Ames was simple and democratic in his tastes, caring little for the luxuries that wealth commands; he was a total abstainer from intoxicating drinks, and under a rugged exterior he carried a kind heart. He made a bequest of fifty thousand dollars for the benefit of the children of his native village, which proved of great advantage to them. He died at North Easton, Mass., May 5, 1873.