Walter Preston Brownlow

Republican Representative of Tennessee's 1st district

Congresses Served

House Terms

March 27, 1851 (59 years old)

Birthday

July 8, 1910

Death

Served as a U.S. Congressman for Tennessee’s 1st district from 1897 until his death in 1910.
Held the position of Doorkeeper of the United States House of Representatives from 1881 to 1883.
Worked as a newspaper editor and publisher, specifically of the Jonesboro Herald and Tribune from 1876 to 1910.
Played a significant role in Tennessee Republican Party politics, engaging in intraparty battles for control.
Secured substantial federal appropriations for his district, including the establishment of a national cemetery for President Andrew Johnson and the Mountain Branch of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers.
Advocated for a unified system of national, state, and local roads, laying groundwork for future federal highway initiatives.
Faced challenges in maintaining control over the state Republican Party, particularly against rival factions.
Known for his strong oratory skills and passionate defense of his district’s contributions during the Civil War.
Married with six children, five of whom survived into adulthood.