James Monroe (congressman) James Monroe (congressman) James Monroe (July 18, 1821 – July 6, 1898) was a U.S. Representative from Ohio. Born in Plainfield, Connecticut, Monroe attended the common schools and Plainfield Academy. He was graduated from Oberlin College in 1846. He pursued a postgraduate course in theology and was a professor at Oberlin College from 1849–1862. He served as a member of the State house of representatives of Ohio in 1856–1859. He served in the State senate from 1860–1862, during which time he was chosen to serve as president pro tempore from 1861 and 1862. In October 1862, he resigned his seat
Oak Hill (James Monroe house) to sell that property to pay debts he had incurred while serving as President. Monroe had put Oak Hill on the market in 1809, and placed an advertisement in "The Washingtonian" on December 23 of that year: He also attempted to sell the land in 1825, but failed to receive an acceptable bid both times. In 1822, Monroe began construction on the main house, a two-story brick mansion in the Federal style. He hired James Hoban, the designer of the White House, to serve as architect. Monroe's longtime friend and political mentor Thomas Jefferson offered many design suggestions. Monroe and