Pennsylvania Governor. He graduated from Dickinson College’s law school in 1904, was admitted to the bar and began the practice of law in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. He was District Attorney of Luzerne County (1920-26) and served as the 14th Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania (1927-31). He then was Judge of the Superior Court of Pennsylvania (1932-39). In 1939, he was elected as a Republican the 31st Governor of Pennsylvania, serving until 1943. As Governor, he created the state Department of Commerce and the Anthracite Emergency Commission, extended the Pennsylvania Turnpike, signed a bill banning sit-down strikes, strengthened the civil service, reinforced liquor control laws, and provided for the retirement of a significant portion of the state’s bonded debt. He also helped mobilize Pennsylvania’s efforts during World War II by establishing the State Council of Defense and the Selective Service Board. After leaving office, he practiced law and was involved in local civic organizations until his death.
Pennsylvania Governor. He graduated from Dickinson College’s law school in 1904, was admitted to the bar and began the practice of law in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. He was District Attorney of Luzerne County (1920-26) and served as the 14th Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania (1927-31). He then was Judge of the Superior Court of Pennsylvania (1932-39). In 1939, he was elected as a Republican the 31st Governor of Pennsylvania, serving until 1943. As Governor, he created the state Department of Commerce and the Anthracite Emergency Commission, extended the Pennsylvania Turnpike, signed a bill banning sit-down strikes, strengthened the civil service, reinforced liquor control laws, and provided for the retirement of a significant portion of the state’s bonded debt. He also helped mobilize Pennsylvania’s efforts during World War II by establishing the State Council of Defense and the Selective Service Board. After leaving office, he practiced law and was involved in local civic organizations until his death.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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