Introduction
William Ely (August 14, 1765 – October 9, 1817) was a U.S. Representative from Massachusetts.
Early life and education
Ely was born in Longmeadow, Massachusetts on August 14, 1765. He was the youngest son of Deacon Nathaniel Ely (1716–1799) and Abigail (Colton) Ely (1724–1770); his mother died when he was 5.
Ely completed preparatory studies. He was graduated from Yale College in 1787. He studied law. Ely was admitted to the bar in 1791.
Career
Following this, Ely commenced practice in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Ely served as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1801–1803.
Ely married Abigail Bliss about November 1, 1803.
Ely was elected as a Federalist to the Ninth and to the four succeeding Congresses (March 4, 1805 – March 4, 1815).
Ely was again a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1814 and 1816.
Death
Ely died on October 9, 1817, in Springfield, Massachusetts; his wife survived him but died in 1827. They are buried in Springfield Cemetery.