Ransom W. Dunham

Ransom Williams Dunham was an American businessman and politician from Chicago. A Republican, from 1883 to 1889 he served as a U.S. Representative from Illinois. He also served on the Chicago Board of Trade, including as its president.

Early life, education, and career

Dunham was born in Savoy, Massachusetts on March 21, 1838. He attended the local schools and the high school in Springfield. After completing his education, Dunham worked as a clerk for the MassMutual life insurance company from 1855 to 1857.

Chicago mercantile career and Chicago Board of Trade

In 1857, Dunham moved to Chicago, where he became a grain and provision merchant.
In 1880 he served as the Chicago Board of Trade's second vice-president. In 1881, he served as its first vice-president. In 1882, he served an elected term as its president. During his presidency of the board, the cornerstone was laid for a new building for the board, construction of which was ultimately completed in 1885.

U.S. House of Representatives

In 1882 Dunham was elected to the United States House of Representatives as a Republican. He was reelected in 1884 and 1886, and served in the 48th, 49th, and 50th United States Congress. He represented Illinois's 1st congressional district.

Later life and death

After leaving Congress, Dunham retired from politics and business. He died in Springfield, Massachusetts on August 19, 1896, while en route to attend Savoy's centennial celebration. He was buried at Mount Hope Cemetery in Chicago.