Harry f byrd biography wife

Harry f byrd 1960 presidential election

Harry Flood Byrd Jr. December 20, — July 30, was an American orchardist, newspaper publisher and politician. Byrd Sr. His public service spanned thirty-six years, while he was a publisher of several Virginia newspapers. He rehabilitated his political career, becoming the first independent in the history of the U. Senate to be elected by a majority of the popular vote.

His uncle, Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd , was a pilot and polar explorer. Two years later, Byrd transferred to the University of Virginia , where he became a member of the St. Anthony Hall fraternity, but left before graduating due to familial obligations. On August 9, , Byrd married Gretchen Thompson. They had sons Harry and Thomas, and a daughter Beverley.