Born in Onondaga County, New York, July 11, 1821. He resided in his native State until in 1852, when he came to Iowa, locating in Muscatine and engaging in the book and stationary business. From his arrival he was interested in the welfare of his country and home city, and was always ready to talk in defense thereof. He was thoroughly posted on all matters of public interest and had a rare gift of eloquence. Not only in matters of public interest did he take a prominent part, but in the church and Sabbath school he was active. He was one of the most earnest and faithful members of the First Baptist Church, being deacon of the church and superintendent of the Sabbath school for nearly thirty years. Mr. Burnett was twice elected to the Legislature, in 1866 and 1868, faithfully serving his constituency at both sessions. He for four years held the appointment of Regent of the University and was a valued official of that institution. He was one of the organizers of the Merchants Exchange National Bank, now the First National Bank of Muscatine, and was one of its directors from its organization. Mr. Burnett was married in 1849 to Miss Frances Edwards, in Onondaga County, N. Y.

Born in Onondaga County, New York, July 11, 1821. He resided in his native State until in 1852, when he came to Iowa, locating in Muscatine and engaging in the book and stationary business. From his arrival he was interested in the welfare of his country and home city, and was always ready to talk in defense thereof. He was thoroughly posted on all matters of public interest and had a rare gift of eloquence. Not only in matters of public interest did he take a prominent part, but in the church and Sabbath school he was active. He was one of the most earnest and faithful members of the First Baptist Church, being deacon of the church and superintendent of the Sabbath school for nearly thirty years. Mr. Burnett was twice elected to the Legislature, in 1866 and 1868, faithfully serving his constituency at both sessions. He for four years held the appointment of Regent of the University and was a valued official of that institution. He was one of the organizers of the Merchants Exchange National Bank, now the First National Bank of Muscatine, and was one of its directors from its organization. Mr. Burnett was married in 1849 to Miss Frances Edwards, in Onondaga County, N. Y.