Edmund Platt

Edmund Platt was an American politician and corporate executive who served as the 4th vice chairman of the Federal Reserve from 1920 to 1930. A member of the Republican Party, he had represented in the United States [House of Representatives] for four terms from 1913 to 1920.

Biography

Born in Poughkeepsie, New York he attended a private school and Riverview Academy. He graduated from Eastman Business College in Poughkeepsie and learned the printer's trade. He graduated from Harvard University in 1888 and taught school and studied law.

Early career

He moved to Wisconsin and edited the Superior Evening Telegram in 1890 and 1891. He returned to Poughkeepsie in 1891 and engaged in editing and publishing the Poughkeepsie Eagle; he was also a member of the board of water commissioners of Poughkeepsie.

Congress

Platt was elected as a Republican to the Sixty-third and to the three succeeding Congresses and held office from March 4, 1913 to June 7, 1920, when he resigned to accept appointment by President Woodrow Wilson to the Federal Reserve Board.
While in the House of Representatives, he was chairman of the Committee on Banking and Currency.

Federal Reserve

Platt became vice chairman of the Federal Reserve Board in August 1920 and served until 1930 when he resigned. Ironically, as a congressman he voted against the creation of the Federal Reserve in 1913.

Later career

He returned to Poughkeepsie and engaged in an extensive banking business.

Death and burial

Platt died in Chazy, New York while on a visit in 1939; interment was in the Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.