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JOHN BURROUGHS was born in Robert Lee, Texas, on April 7, 1907. His education was attained at Texas Technological College, where he graduated in 1929, and later at Colorado State University, where he took some graduate courses. After teaching several years, Burroughs established a successful business career. He became the owner of his own company, the Cotton Oil Mill and Peanut Mill, with branches in San Antonio, Texas and Portales, New Mexico. Burroughs first entered politics as a member of the New Mexico House of Representatives, a position he held in 1957. He next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by popular vote on November 4, 1958. During his tenure, a concerted effort was launched to collect outstanding funds that were owed to the state. Also, industrial development was promoted. After running unsuccessfully for reelection, Burroughs retired from political life. He continued to stay active in his various business ventures. Governor John Burroughs passed away on May 21, 1978 in Portales, New Mexico.

Sources:

Governor John Burroughs Papers, 1959-1960 (offical papers)

Governor John Burroughs Photograph Collection

The Political Graveyard

Sobel, Robert, and John Raimo, eds. Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789-1978, Vol. 3, Westport, Conn.; Meckler Books, 1978. 4 vols.

For more information please contact the New Mexico State Archives at 505-476-7948 or archives@state.nm.us.