H0YT, Oliver, merchant, born in Stamford, Connecticut, 15 August, 1823; died there, 5 May, 1887. He was educated in the common schools of his native town, and began life as a currier. In 1844 he removed to New York city, and, with his brother, William, established himself as a leather-merchant, the firm becoming one of the most successful in the trade. Mr. Hoyt took an active part in public affairs, and served three terms as senator in the Connecticut legislature, during two of which he acted as president. He was also an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and a liberal patron of its various institutions. He contributed largely to the church at Stamford, gave $25,000 to Wesleyan university, and $2,000 to the Wesley memorial church at Savannah, Georgia He was for many years a leading member of the board of managers of the General missionary society, and for a time served as treasurer of the Church board of education. He was a founder of "The Methodist," and in 1881 represented his church in the International assembly of Methodists in London. He was chosen a presidential elector in 1872, and cast his vote for General Grant, of whom he was a devoted admirer. When the fund of $250,000 was raised for the latter by private subscription, Mr. Hoyt was one of the first to subscribe, and greatly aided the enterprise by his zeal and earnestness. He was also a pall-bearer at General Grant's funeral. By his will he bequeathed nearly $100,000 to various charitable and religious institutions.