John Adams HARPER, Congress, NH (1779-1816)

HARPER, John Adams, a Representative from New Hampshire; born in Derryfield, N.H., November 2, 1779; attended Phillips Exeter Academy, Exeter, N.H., in 1794; studied law; was admitted to the bar about 1802 and commenced practice in Sanbornton, N.H.; first postmaster of Sanbornton, N.H.; moved to Meredith Bridge (now Laconia, Belknap County) in 1806; clerk of the State senate 1805-1808; member of the State house of representatives in 1809 and 1810; served in the State militia 1809-1812; elected as a Republican to the Twelfth Congress (March 4, 1811-March 3, 1813); unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1812 to the Thirteenth Congress; died at Meredith Bridge, N.H., June 18, 1816; interment in Union Cemetery.

Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present