State Web Site

VICTOR E. ANDERSON, the twenty-ninth governor of Nebraska, was born in Havelock, Nebraska, on March 30, 1902. His education was attained at Havelock High School, and then at the University of Nebraska. However, he left school early to work in his family's hardware business. Anderson first entered politics as a trustee of the Lancaster County Sanitary District No. 1, an appointment he secured in 1936. He also served as a member of the Nebraska Unicameral Legislature from 1949 to 1950, and was the mayor of Lincoln from 1950 to 1953. Anderson next secured the Republican gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in November 1954. He was reelected to a second term in 1956. During his tenure, mental health programs were improved; state expenditures and taxes were reduced; and a prison riot was successfully calmed. After running unsuccessfully for reelection, Anderson secured a position as a U.S. delegate to the NATO-sponsored Atlantic Congress in London. He also became involved in the insurance industry, as well as serving as a Nebraska Wesleyan University trustee. Governor Victor E. Anderson passed away on August 15, 1962, and was buried in the Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln, Nebraska.

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.

Rootsweb.com

The Political Graveyard