Benjamin Franklin Junkin (November 12, 1822 – October 9, 1908) was an American politician, lawyer, and judge who served a single term in the United States House of Representatives, representing the 16th congressional district of Pennsylvania from 1859 to 1861 as a Republican in the 36th United States Congress.

Early life and education

Junkin was born near Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on November 12, 1822, to John Junkin and Maria Adams. He graduated from Lafayette College and studied law.

Career

Junkin was admitted to the bar in 1844; he commenced practice in New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania. Junkin served as district attorney for Perry County, Pennsylvania, from 1850 to 1853. Junkin was elected as a Republican to the 36th United States Congress. He served from 1859 to 1861, representing the 16th congressional district of Pennsylvania. Junkin was an unsuccessful candidate for re-election in 1860. Following his tenure in Congress, Junkin resumed practicing law in New Bloomfield, serving as president judge of the ninth judicial district from 1871 to 1881. Junkin served as solicitor of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company from 1886 to his death in 1908.

Personal life and death

Junkin married both Ann McGowan and Laura McClurkin; he had two children with the former. Junkin was a Presbyterian. Junkin died at the age of 85 in New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania, on October 9, 1908. He was interred in New Bloomfield Cemetery.