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SAMUEL C. FORD, the twelfth governor of Montana, was born in Albany, Kentucky on November 7, 1882. His early education was attained in the public schools of Kansas, and later at the University of Kansas, where he earned a LL.B. degree in 1906. Ford established a legal practice, as well as a public service career in Helena, Montana. He served as assistant U.S. attorney for Montana from 1908 to 1914, was the attorney general of Montana from 1917 to 1921, and served as a justice on the Montana State Supreme Court from 1929 to 1933. Ford next secured the Republican gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote on November 5, 1940. He was reelected to a second term in 1944. During his tenure, the budget was balanced; World War II issues were dealt with; and the Missouri River development project was launched. After running unsuccessfully for reelection, Ford left office and retired from political life. Governor Samuel C. Ford passed away on November 25, 1961, and was buried in the Forestvale Cemetery.

Sources:

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.

Montana Governor's Papers, 1889-1905 (MC 35; boxes 86-124). Montana Historical Society.

Montana State Capitol Complex

Thumbnail History of Montana Governors

The Political Graveyard