Reader Wright Clarke (May 18, 1812 – May 23, 1872) was a U.S. Representative from Ohio for two terms from 1865 to 1869.

Biography

Born in Bethel, Ohio, Clarke was the son of Houten Clarke (1766–1835) and Nancy (Riley) Clarke (1786–1857). Clarke learned the art of printing as well as studying law. He was admitted to the bar in 1836 and commenced practice in Batavia, Ohio. Clarke published a Whig paper in Shawneetown, Illinois before returning to Batavia, Ohio. He also served as member of the State House of Representatives 1840–1842 along with being a Presidential elector in 1844 for Whigs Clay/Frelinghuysen. He also served as clerk of the court of Clermont County 1846–1852. Clarke was elected as a Republican to the Thirty-ninth and Fortieth Congresses (March 4, 1865 – March 3, 1869). He also become the third auditor of the Treasury from March 26, 1869, to March 26, 1870. Eventually, he was appointed collector of internal revenue in Ohio.

Death

He died in Batavia, Ohio, May 23, 1872, where he was interred in the Union Cemetery.

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