Edward Harris, 1801-1872, was considered the City of Woonsocket’s most prominent citizen in the 19th century. His contributions are found in the economic, political, and social fiber of his native city, as Woonsocket’s first millionaire, and in helping to establish the area as the state’s leading textile center. A leading philanthropist, he donated numerous buildings and land areas to Woonsocket, ran three times as the “Free Soil” candidate for governor, founded two banks and much of the credit for the development of the city of Woonsocket goes to him.