Details for Stevenson, Coke R., Texas Statesman

Historical Marker — Atlas Number 5267005118

Data

Marker Number 5118
Atlas Number 5267005118
Marker Title Stevenson, Coke R., Texas Statesman
Index Entry Stevenson, Coke R.
Address
City Junction
County Kimble
UTM Zone 14
UTM Easting 426290
UTM Northing 3373320
Subject Codes governors
Marker Year 1966
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark No
Marker Location Courthouse grounds (corner of Main and 6th.), Junction
Private Property No
Marker Condition In Situ
Marker Size 27" x 42"
Marker Text First Texas governor to serve more than two terms (1941-1947). First speaker of the house to succeed himself (1935-1937). Lieutenant Governor, 1939-1941. Was first to hold the three highest state offices. As governor, placed state on a cash basis without curtailment of services to the people and without a tax increase. Changed a $34,000,000 deficit to a $35,000,000 surplus. Lifetime resident, Kimble County. Son of pioneer settlers, R. M. and Virginia Hurley Stevenson. Born March 20, 1888. In school only 22 months; studied throughout his life. At 10 got a ranch job; at 16 owned and operated Junction-Brady Freight Line; at 18, entered banking as a janitor, advancing to president. Studied law and was licensed in 1913. County attorney, county judge; legislator, 1929-1939. While he was speaker, State House of Representatives, landmark legislation included first driver's license law; municipal indebtedness reporting Law; creation of state auditor's office; Lower Colorado River Authority; Highway Department pay-as-you-go plan. Over 50 years a Methodist, lawyer, Mason, rancher. Married in 1912, Fay Wright (deceased 1942); in 1954, Mrs. Marguerite King Heap. Children; Coke, Jr. and Jane.

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