To pass S. J. RES. 181, a resolution appropriating $25,000 for educational purposes for use of wilberforce university for colored boys. (p. 3800-2)

On May 25, 1870, the Senate voted 35–11 (SJR 181). Result: passed. By party: Republicans 33–5, Democrats 2–6. It was a split vote: the parties took opposite sides, with some members crossing over. 7 members voted against their own party.

During the 41st Congress (1869–1870), Ulysses S. Grant was president, and Republicans held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Yes: 35
No: 11
Did not vote: 34
Date: May 25, 1870

By party

Republicans33 yes · 5 no · 29 didn’t vote
Democrats2 yes · 6 no · 5 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

Orris Sanford Ferry R-CT voted no
William Alfred Buckingham R-CT voted no
Edmund Gibson Ross R-KS voted no
Garrett Davis D-KY voted yes
James Willis Patterson R-NH voted no
George Henry Williams R-OR voted no
John Warfield Johnston D-VA voted yes

How each senator voted: Yes

How each senator voted: No

Did not vote

Other votes

From Voteview roll call records.

Cite or embed this page

Capitol Receipts, “To pass S. J. RES. 181, a resolution…: Senate Vote, May 25, 1870,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/41-S-318/to-pass-s-j-res-181-a-resolution-appropriating (accessed 2026-10-16).