Henry Young Cranston (October 9, 1789 – February 12, 1864) was a U.S. Representative from Rhode Island, brother of Robert B. Cranston. Born in Newport, Rhode Island, Cranston attended the public schools.He engaged in mercantile pursuits in New Bedford, Massachusetts.He moved to Newport, Rhode Island, in 1810, and engaged in business as a commission merchant until 1815.He studied law.He was admitted to the bar in 1819 and commenced practice in Newport.He served as clerk of the court of common pleas 1818–1833.He held the rank of colonel in the Rhode Island Militia and commanded the Artillery Company of Newport from 1825–1828.He served as member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives from 1827 to 1843.He served as member and vice president of the convention that framed the State constit