Daniel Sheldon Norton

Biography

Daniel Sheldon Norton spent his career advocating for equality and progress, first as a lawyer and later as a senator representing Minnesota. A determined defender of the Union, he spoke vigorously for the rights of newly freed people and worked to bind the young state to the national project of reconstruction.

Although he died during his term in office, Norton’s commitment to justice and his efforts to establish stable governance for the western territories left a lasting impression on colleagues and constituents. He is interred at Green Mount Cemetery, a fitting resting place for a public servant of his resolve.