The Biographical Dictionary of America/Adams, Robert

ADAMS, Robert, representative, was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Feb. 26, 1849; son of Robert and Matilda Maybin (Hart) Adams. He was graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1869, studied law, and was admitted to the bar. He was a member of the U.S. geological survey on the explorations of Yellowstone Park, 1871-75; was a member of the Pennsylvania state senate, 1883-87; graduated from the Wharton school of economy and finance of the University of Pennsylvania, in 1884; was U.S. minister to Brazil, 1889-'90, and a Republican representative from the 2d Pennsylvania district in the 53d, 54th, 55th and 56th congresses, 1893-1901. He was acting chairman of the committee on foreign affairs in the 55th congress, and reported the Cuban resolutions and the declaration of war against Spain. He was elected a member of the Historical society of Pennsylvania; Society of the Cincinnati; Pennsylvania society of the Sons of the Revolution; Society of the war of 1812, and Society of Colonial wars. He was a member of the National guards of Pennsylvania, 1881-'95, serving as judge-advocate and major, also on start duty. He was an aide-de-camp on the staff of Governor Beaver of Pennsylvania with the rank of lieutenant-colonel in 1885. He was re-elected to the 57th and 58th congresses from the 2d Pennsylvania district, serving, 1901-'05, and was a member of various committees. He contributed to periodicals and lectured.