Swann graduated from Columbia Law School in 1886, was admitted to the bar the same year and commenced practice in New York City.[1] Swann was elected as a Democrat to the 57th United States Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Amos J. Cummings and served from December 1, 1902, to March 3, 1903.Theodore Roosevelt, this had become a constant move in New York City politics, but neither Republican Charles S. Whitman nor Democrat Al Smith saw reason enough to act.After his defeat, Tammany insisted in trying to get him appointed to a vacancy in the New York Court of General Sessions, but Governor Al Smith did not yield.[1] Swann was buried at the St. Peter's Episcopal Cemetery in Fernandina Beach, Nassau County, Florida.