Edwin Corning

Edwin Corning was an American businessman and politician from New York, best known for his tenure as Lieutenant Governor of New York under Governor Al Smith. A prominent figure in Albany's civic and industrial life, he served in the New York State Assembly and was a key leader in the state's Democratic Party. His business acumen was demonstrated through his leadership of the Albany Felt Company, a major industrial concern, and his legacy is further cemented by his son, Erastus Corning 2nd, who became the long-serving mayor of Albany.

Early life and education

He was born in Albany, New York, into a family with deep political and industrial roots, as the son of Parker Corning, who would later serve as a U.S. Representative. He received his early education at the Albany Academy before enrolling at Yale University, where he graduated in 1906. His formative years in the state capital exposed him to the intertwined worlds of New York State government and business, influences that would define his career. Following his graduation, he traveled extensively in Europe before returning to Albany to enter the family's industrial enterprises.

Business career

His primary business focus was the Albany Felt Company, a leading manufacturer of industrial felts used in papermaking, where he eventually rose to the position of president. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operations and maintained a significant presence in the Albany manufacturing sector. He also held directorships in other institutions, including the National Commercial Bank and Trust Company and the Delaware and Hudson Railway. His success in industry provided the financial foundation for his subsequent foray into state politics and public service.

Political career

He began his political career by winning election as a Democrat to the New York State Assembly from Albany County in 1910, serving until 1912. A loyal ally of Governor Al Smith, he was elected Lieutenant Governor of New York in 1926 and served during Smith's final term from 1927 to 1928. In this role, he presided over the New York State Senate and was an active participant in Smith's progressive administration. Although he was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for Governor of New York in 1932, he lost the primary to the eventual winner, Herbert H. Lehman.

Later life and death

After his gubernatorial primary defeat, he remained active in business and party affairs but did not seek further elected office. He continued to oversee the Albany Felt Company and maintained his involvement with various civic organizations in the Capital District. His health declined in his final years, and he died suddenly at his home in Albany, New York, on August 7, 1934. His funeral was attended by numerous political figures, including former Governor Al Smith and Governor Herbert H. Lehman.

Legacy

He is remembered as a significant industrialist and political figure in early 20th-century New York. His most enduring political legacy is his family's continued prominence, particularly through his son, Erastus Corning 2nd, who served as mayor of Albany for over 40 years. The Corning Tower, the tallest building in New York state government's Empire State Plaza complex in Albany, is named in honor of the Corning family's contributions. His career exemplified the model of the businessman-politician in the Progressive Era and the Roaring Twenties.

Category:1883 births Category:1934 deaths Category:Lieutenant Governors of New York Category:New York (state) Democrats Category:People from Albany, New York Category:Yale University alumni