He began his political career as keeper of the archives of his native canton, St. Gall. This position gave him the opportunity of learning the topography, history, laws, and legal relations of the canton. In 1822 he was made official secretary; in 1825 he became a member of the great council of the canton and was appointed chancellor.
He began his political career as a custodian of records in his native canton, St. Gall. This role provided him with the chance to learn about the topography, history, laws, and legal relationships of the canton. In 1822, he was appointed official secretary; in 1825, he became a member of the great council of the canton and was appointed chancellor.