William Godshalk

Biography

William Godshalk combined his early studies of law with hard work on the land, establishing himself as a respected Pennsylvanian public servant. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican, he carried the voice of his district to Washington in the late 1870s and early 1880s, championing infrastructure improvements and accountable governance.

After leaving Congress he returned to the local bar, yet he remained an active supporter of civic charities and a clear-minded advisor to younger leaders who followed his example of principled service.