Lyman Enos Knapp (November 5, 1837 – October 9, 1904) was an American lawyer, journalist, and politician who served as the Governor of the District of Alaska from 1889 to 1893. He was also a member of the Vermont House of Representatives from 1884 to 1885.
Early life and education
Knapp was born November 5, 1837, in Somerset, Vermont, to Hiram and Elvira (Stearns) Knapp. He was educated in Manchester, Vermont, first attending Burr and Burton Academy and then graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from Middlebury College in 1862.
Career
Military service
After graduating from college, Knapp enlisted as a private in the Company I, 16th Vermont Infantry Regiment and was quickly promoted to captain of Company F, 17th Vermont Infantry Regiment. During his military service, he was wounded at Gettysburg, Spotsylvania, and Petersburg. Knapp rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel and was brevetted a colonel for his gallantry during the siege of Petersburg.
Governor of Alaska
Knapp was appointed Governor of the District of Alaska by President Benjamin Harrison, his term beginning on April 20, 1889. At the time of his appointment, many Alaskans desired a resident governor and were disappointed by receiving an "outsider". The district did, however, see a number of improvements during his administration. Postal service was extended with the creation of over of new mail routes. Knapp also helped establish a historical society and library.