Harry Haskell Jr.

Harry Haskell Jr. was an American businessman and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Delaware's at-large congressional district from 1957 to 1959. A member of the Republican Party, Haskell's political career included notable roles such as mayor of Wilmington, Delaware, and various positions in business and government. His tenure in the House of Representatives was marked by his participation in the 85th Congress during the administration of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Early life and career

Harry Garner Haskell Jr. was born on May 27, 1921, in Wilmington, Delaware. He was the son of Elizabeth Denham Haskell and Harry Garner Haskell, who held a significant position as an executive at DuPont. Haskell's early education took place at Tower Hill School in Wilmington, followed by St. Mark's School in Southborough, Massachusetts. He furthered his education at Princeton University, where he studied from 1940 until 1942. During World War II, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard Reserve, achieving the rank of ensign in 1943. Haskell completed his military service and was discharged as a lieutenant (junior grade) in 1946.

After his military service, Haskell transitioned into the business sector. He began his career as the personnel manager at Speakman Co. in 1947 and 1948. Following this role, he became the president of Greenhill Dairies, Inc., where he served from 1948 until 1953. Haskell also owned and operated Hill Girt Farm in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. His involvement in government began in 1953 when he was appointed as secretary of the Departmental Council of the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, a position he held until 1954. In 1955, he served as a consultant to the special assistant to President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Additionally, he was the president of the University of Delaware Research Foundation, further establishing his presence in both business and public service.

Haskell's political engagement included being a delegate to the Republican National Conventions from 1952 to 1984, reflecting his active participation in the party's activities over several decades.

House tenure

Haskell's political career advanced when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1956. He ran for office against the incumbent Democratic U.S. Representative Harris McDowell and emerged victorious. His term in the House began on January 3, 1957. During his time in Congress, Haskell was a member of the Republican minority in the 85th Congress. His legislative actions included voting in favor of the Civil Rights Act of 1957, a significant piece of legislation aimed at addressing civil rights issues in the United States.

Despite his initial success in securing a congressional seat, Haskell's tenure was relatively brief. He served only one term, concluding his time in the House on January 3, 1959, after losing his bid for re-election to McDowell in 1958. His experience in Congress was part of a broader political landscape that included significant civil rights advancements and the challenges faced by the Republican Party during that era.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House, Haskell's legislative focus was shaped by the political climate of the late 1950s, particularly under the Eisenhower administration. While specific details regarding the committees he served on are not provided, it is known that he was actively involved in discussions and votes on key issues, including civil rights legislation. His support for the Civil Rights Act of 1957 indicates a commitment to addressing social justice issues, a defining characteristic of the political discourse during that period.

After his congressional tenure, Haskell continued to engage in public service and business. He was elected mayor of Wilmington, Delaware, in 1969, serving until 1973. His election marked him as the most recent Republican to hold this position in Wilmington. In addition to his role as mayor, Haskell was appointed in 1970 to the President's National Reading Council, reflecting his ongoing commitment to educational issues.

Haskell's business career continued alongside his political endeavors. He held leadership positions in various companies, including serving as president of Abercrombie and Fitch and working with organizations such as Computer International, Computer Time Sharing, Inertial Motors Corps, and Interpoint Corp. His diverse career path illustrates a blend of business acumen and public service.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Haskell was involved in community advocacy. He was a founding member of the Brandywine River Museum and Conservancy in Chadds Ford, where he served on the board for over fifty years. His commitment to community development extended to the establishment of empowerment and mentorship groups, including Dynamy in Worcester, Massachusetts, and Delaware Futures in Wilmington. These initiatives aimed to support youth and foster educational opportunities.

Haskell passed away on January 16, 2020, at the age of 98 in his home in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. At the time of his death, he was survived by eight children, nineteen grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of public service and community involvement. His life and career reflect the complexities of American political and business landscapes during the mid-20th century, as well as the ongoing evolution of civic engagement in Delaware and beyond.