Vance Plauché

Vance Plauché was an American attorney and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Louisiana's 7th congressional district. A member of the Democratic Party, he held office during the 77th Congress from 1941 to 1943. His career was marked by his involvement in local governance and law, as well as his service in the U.S. Army during World War I. After completing his term in Congress, he returned to his legal practice and continued to engage in various civic and professional activities until his passing in 1976.

Early life and career

Vance Gabriel Plauché was born on August 25, 1897, in Plaucheville, Louisiana. He grew up in Avoyelles Parish, where he attended both private and public schools. His educational journey culminated in 1914 when he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from St. Francis Xavier Commercial College in New Orleans. During his time at the college, he distinguished himself academically, receiving awards for his excellence in typing and final examinations.

Following his undergraduate studies, Plauché pursued a legal education at Loyola University in New Orleans, earning his Bachelor of Laws degree in 1918. While at Loyola, he demonstrated leadership skills by serving as class president. After being admitted to the bar in the same year, he began practicing law in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Plauché's career was interrupted by World War I, during which he served in the United States Army. He was inducted at Camp Beauregard, Louisiana, and became a member of a hospital unit affiliated with Loyola University. This unit was deployed to Vicenza, Italy, where it operated as Base Hospital 102. Plauché achieved the rank of private first class before his discharge at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, in 1919.

Upon returning to civilian life, Plauché took on various roles in local government and legal practice. He served as the city attorney of Lake Charles from 1928 to 1932 and later held the position of district counsel for the Home Owners' Loan Corporation from 1933 to 1935. His political involvement deepened in the late 1930s when he managed the successful gubernatorial campaign of Sam H. Jones in late 1939 and early 1940. In 1940, he was appointed secretary of the State Civil Service Commission and participated as a delegate at the Democratic state convention.

House tenure

In 1940, Vance Plauché successfully secured the Democratic nomination for a seat in the United States House of Representatives. He was elected to represent Louisiana's 7th congressional district and began his term in the 77th Congress on January 3, 1941. His tenure in the House lasted until January 3, 1943.

During his time in Congress, Plauché was involved in several committees that addressed a range of issues. He served on the Committee on Irrigation and Reclamation, which focused on water management and conservation efforts, particularly relevant to the agricultural needs of his home state. Additionally, he was a member of the Committee on Invalid Pensions, which dealt with matters related to veterans and their benefits, reflecting his own military service and concern for those who had served in the armed forces. Plauché also participated in the Committee on Patents, which oversaw issues related to intellectual property and innovation.

Despite his active role in Congress, Plauché chose not to seek reelection in 1942. After completing his term, he returned to his legal practice in Louisiana, where he continued to contribute to the community through his professional work.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional tenure, Vance Plauché's legislative focus was shaped by the needs of his constituents and the broader context of the time. His involvement in the Committee on Irrigation and Reclamation underscored the importance of water resources in Louisiana, particularly for agricultural and economic development. This committee's work was crucial in addressing the challenges of irrigation and land reclamation, which were vital for the state's agricultural sector.

His role on the Committee on Invalid Pensions highlighted his commitment to veterans' affairs. Given the backdrop of World War II, issues related to veterans' benefits were particularly pressing. Plauché's participation in this committee allowed him to advocate for policies that supported those who had served in the military, ensuring they received the necessary assistance and recognition for their sacrifices.

Additionally, Plauché's work on the Committee on Patents reflected his interest in fostering innovation and protecting intellectual property rights. This committee's responsibilities included reviewing patent applications and addressing issues related to inventions and technological advancements, which were increasingly significant in the post-war economy.

After his congressional service, Plauché remained active in various professional and civic organizations. He practiced law and took on leadership roles in local financial institutions, including serving as a director of Calcassieu Savings & Loan and the Plauché Engineering Company. His engagement extended to civic and fraternal organizations, where he was a member of the American Legion, Kiwanis, and the chamber of commerce, among others. He also maintained memberships in local, county, and state bar associations, as well as the American Bar Association.

In recognition of his contributions to the Catholic Church, Plauché was honored with the Order of St. Gregory the Great by Pope John XXIII, reflecting his commitment to his faith and community.

Vance Plauché passed away on April 2, 1976, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He was laid to rest at Consolata Cemetery in the same city, leaving behind a legacy of public service and community involvement. His life and career exemplified a dedication to both legal practice and civic engagement, marking him as a notable figure in Louisiana's political history.