Banta, who is among the best known jurists of Westchester County, and by his activity in the espousal of every just cause has brought himself prominently before its people, both in i)olitical and social life, was born in the city of New York, October 3, 1828. He was one of ten children and the only son of Solomon Banta, who married Maria Roome, of New Jersey.

While quite young his father sent him to Public School No. 3, in the Ninth Ward, New York City, from which he graduated. He then attended the private school of Mr. Starr, in Amos Street, leaving it at the age of sixteen to enter the University of the City of New York.

In 1848, after his graduation from college, he entered the law-oflice of David E. Wheeler a-s managing clerk, remaining in this position till the death of his employer, in 186'J, when the business was divided,

THE BENCH AND BAR.

the real estate portion of it falling into his own haiuls.

Mr. Banta has since continued to manage the business. By his faithful attention to the interests of his clients and his sivill in the inanageinent of the aflaii-s which thoy liavc placed in his hands, he has accumulated for himself an extended and hicrative practice, which is continually increasing.

In 1870, after a long residence in New York, he removed to Mamaroneclc, where he resides at present. From his arrival in Westchester County he has deeply interested himself in its politics. Being a Democrat, he immediately identified himself with his party in IMamaroneck, and was elected in 1877 supervisor of the town, an ofiice he continues to hold. Tiie liberal course pursued by him in the County Board so won tiie apj)roval of his jtarty that in 188') lie was made their nominee for surrogate, and received a large majority of the votes cast at the election.