Peter Cartwright

(1785-1872)

Peter Cartwright was a Methodist minister born in Amherst County, Virginia, in 1785. His family moved to Logan County, Kentucky, when he was five years old. Cartwright joined the Methodists after a Great Revival camp meeting near his family’s home in 1801. Licensed to preach in 1802, he became known as “Kentucky Boy” because of his powerful speaking voice and skills in oratory.

In 1824, Cartwright moved to Sangamon County, Illinois, because of his strong feelings against slavery. He entered politics and was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives in 1828 and 1832. The election of 1832 brought Cartwright and Abraham Lincoln into direct competition since they were both running for the Sangamon County seat in the Illinois House. The election results ended with Lincoln’s defeat.

Peter Cartwright

Courtesy of the University of Kentucky, Wilson Family Photographic Collection