RICHARD SKINNER was born in Litchfield, Connecticut, where he studied law. He moved to Manchester, Vermont in 1799, becoming State’s Attorney for Bennington County. He also served at various times as Probate Judge, representative to the U.S. Congress, state General Assemblyman, and Assistant Judge of the State Supreme Court. During his gubernatorial administration, Skinner opposed the Missouri Compromise and supported protective tariffs. After serving three terms as governor, he went on to become Chief Justice of the State Supreme Court. He died in Manchester from injuries suffered in a fall from a carriage.