BEP Directors

Truman Burrill was born and raised in Elbridge, New York.  In the 1850s, he and his brother operated a dry goods and clothing store in Penn Yan, New York.  With the Civil War underway, Burrill formed and headed an infantry company from New York in 1862, serving until he was discharged for a physical disability in 1863.  He was again commissioned as a captain in 1864 and served on the staffs of several commanding officers as a commissary officer.  After his discharge from the military in 1866, Burrill worked in the furniture-making business in both Rochester and Buffalo, New York.  He entered the Bureau of Engraving and Printing as a storekeeper in 1880 and later was made clerk in charge of proposals and supplies.  From this position, Burrill was appointed Chief in 1883 after the sudden death of O.H. Irish, passing over the Assistant Chief and others closer in line for promotion to the top spot.  He served for just over two years.  After leaving the BEP, Burrill followed various pursuits until his death in New York City in 1896.