State Web Site

EARL L. BREWER, the thirty-eighth governor of Mississippi, was born near Vaiden, Mississippi on August 11, 1869. His education was attained at the University of Mississippi, where he earned a law degree in 1892. After establishing his legal career in Water Valley, Mississippi, Brewer entered into politics. He served as a member of the Mississippi State Senate from 1895 to 1899, and was the district attorney of the Eleventh Judicial District from 1902 to 1906. Brewer next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote on November 7, 1911. He was sworn into office on January 16, 1912. During his tenure, a bureau of vital statistics was created; increased funding was secured for board of health improvements; bank reform measures were sanctioned; a higher education board was established; and a constitutional amendment was approved that made the judiciary elective positions. Brewer completed his term and left office on January 18, 1916. After an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Senate in 1924, Brewer retired from political life. Governor Earl L. Brewer passed away on March 10, 1942, and was buried in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

Resources:

Sobel, Robert, and John Raimo, eds. Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789-1978, Vol. 2, Westport, Conn.; Meckler Books, 1978. 4 vols.

Mississippi Historical Society

The Politcal Graveyard