John Van S. L. Pruyn

John Van Schaick Lansing Pruyn (June 22, 1811 - November 21, 1877) was a United States Representative from New York during the latter half of the American Civil War and the early days of Reconstruction.

Born in Albany, New York, Pruyn pursued classical studies and was graduated from The Albany Academy in 1826. He studied law and in 1832 was admitted to the bar and commenced practice in Albany. He held several local offices, and was appointed a regent of the University of the State of New York in 1844.

Pruyn was an unsuccessful candidate for election to the Thirty-fourth Congress in 1854 and served as member of the New York State Senate in 1861. He was elected as a Democrat to the Thirty-eighth Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Erastus Corning and served from December 7, 1863, to March 3, 1865.

Pruyn was elected to the Fortieth Congress (March 4, 1867-March 3, 1869).He was not a candidate for renomination in 1864 and 1868 and resumed the practice of law at Albany, New York. From 1868 until his death, he was Chancellor of the University of the State of New York. He died in Clifton Springs, New York; his remains were interred in Albany Rural Cemetery.

ource