Franklin Townsend

Biography

Franklin Townsend was born in 1821 and became a familiar sight in Albany’s civic and business circles, serving with the Albany militia before taking the helm of the state’s Adjutant General’s office on the eve of the Civil War. His organizational skill helped ready the state’s regiments and kept the citizen-soldiers of New York well supplied and well led.

Once the conflict ended he returned to private affairs without relinquishing his interest in public service, supporting veterans’ reunions, encouraging industrial innovation, and quietly sustaining philanthropic efforts that educated the city’s youth. Those who worked beside him recalled his calm temper and high standard of honor.