Charles Sumner Hamlin

Biography

Charles Sumner Hamlin was a lawyer and banker who rose to national prominence as the first chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, guiding the young central bank through its early years with clarity and fairness. He also served in the Treasury Department and lent his expertise to shaping financial policy during a critical era of growth and reform.

Throughout his career, colleagues praised his devotion to public service and his calm judgment, traits that ensured he remained a respected figure in both government and finance.