born: Charlottetown, P.E.I., 1 September 1809
died: Charlottetown, P.E.I., 3 November 1889
representing: P.E.I.
position: Anti-Confederation

After receiving a local education in Charlottetown, Edward Palmer studied law with his father, an Irish-born attorney. At the age of 26 he began his career in politics by representing Charlottetown as a Tory in the Legislature. Palmer served for 35 years in the Island's government as solicitor-general, attorney-general, president of the council, as well as other positions of importance.

In 1849, Palmer became the leader of the Tories and ten years later emerged as the premier of the Island. In 1863 he was replaced as premier although he did still attend the Charlottetown Conference. Palmer was strongly opposed to the idea of Confederation and was forced to resign his position in the senate because of his views. Eventually Palmer sided with the unionists and voted in favour of P.E.I.'s entry into Confederation with better terms offered by Canada.