Francis M. Dimond

Francis M. Dimond
Official portrait in the RI State House
23rd Governor of Rhode Island
In office July 20, 1853 – May 2, 1854
Preceded by	Philip Allen
Succeeded by	William W. Hoppin
Personal details
Born	June 6, 1796 Bristol, Rhode Island
Died	April 12, 1859 (aged 62)
Resting place	Juniper Hill Cemetery
Political party	Democratic
Spouse(s)	Martha Stanton Gould
Profession	Politician, Railroad man

Francis M. Dimond (June 6, 1796 – April 12, 1859) was an American politician and the 23rd Governor of Rhode Island.

He was born in Bristol, Rhode Island on June 6, 1796. During his youth, he traveled to the Caribbean and served for several years (1832-1835) as the United States consul at Port-au-Prince.

Later, Dimond became a United States Consul to Mexico. The knowledge he acquired there proved invaluable during the war with Mexico. During the war with Mexico, he was called to Washington to provide information that would help in the attack on Vera Cruz. After the battle, the United States Army occupied the area. At the tame, Dimond served as an official interpreter for General Winfield Scott. He also became a collector of the Port of Vera Cruz.

When he returned to Rhode Island, he promoted the Southern Pacific Railway and presided over its construction. He was elected lieutenant governor of Rhode Island in 1853. He became the governor of Rhode Island when Philip Allen resigned to become a Senator. He held the governor's office from July 20, 1853 to May 2, 1854. He was unsuccessful in his re-election bid. He died on April 12, 1859. Dimond was buried in the Juniper Hill Cemetery.

Sources

• Sobel, Robert and John Raimo. Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789-1978. Greenwood Press, 1988. ISBN 0-313-28093-2