George Peery

George Peery was a prominent American politician and lawyer who served as a U.S. Representative for Virginia's 9th congressional district from 1923 to 1929. A member of the Democratic Party, Peery's political career extended beyond his time in Congress, culminating in his role as the 52nd Governor of Virginia from 1934 to 1938. His early life in southwestern Virginia, combined with his legal background and political involvement, shaped his approach to governance and public service.

Early life and career

George Campbell Peery was born on October 28, 1873, in Cedar Bluff, Virginia, located in Tazewell County in the southwestern part of the state. His family had deep roots in the region, with ancestors settling there after the American Revolutionary War. Notably, Dr. Andrew Peery, one of his forebears, served in the Virginia House of Delegates in the early 19th century, while several relatives participated in the War of 1812. Peery's father, Dr. James Peery, was a surgeon in the Confederate Army during the Civil War, which likely influenced George's understanding of public service and leadership.

Peery's education began in local public schools, where he worked on his father's farm and in the family store. His early experiences included collecting debts for family members, which provided him with practical skills in finance and negotiation. He later took a position as an assistant clerk in the Tazewell County Clerk's office, earning a modest salary. After completing his studies at Emory & Henry College, where he graduated in 1894 with accolades in oratory and science, Peery became the principal of Tazewell High School for two years. He then pursued a law degree at Washington & Lee University, earning his LL.B. in 1897 after just one year of study.

Following his admission to the Virginia bar, Peery established a legal practice in Tazewell. He specialized in title work and expanded his practice to include areas in Wise and Dickinson Counties, as well as parts of eastern Kentucky. His legal career flourished, and he returned to Tazewell in 1915 to manage his father-in-law's estate. He subsequently formed a partnership with two former associates, creating the law firm Chapman, Peery, and Buchanan. Peery's political involvement began in earnest when he served as a Democratic elector at large for the Wilson-Marshall ticket in 1916. By 1920, he had become the chairman of the Ninth District Democratic Committee, further solidifying his role in local politics.

House tenure

In 1922, Peery was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing Virginia's 9th congressional district. He succeeded C. Bascom Slemp, who had opted not to seek re-election, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of the district. Peery's election was notable as he became the last Republican to serve in Virginia's congressional delegation for several decades. His initial victory over Republican candidate John H. Hassinger was seen as a test of the strength of the Byrd Organization, a powerful political faction in Virginia led by former Governor Harry F. Byrd, Sr.

Peery served three terms in the House from 1923 until 1929. During this time, he was re-elected twice, defeating Republican C. Henry Harman in his subsequent campaigns. His tenure in Congress coincided with a period of significant national challenges, including the onset of the Great Depression. Peery's legislative activities during this time were marked by his alignment with the Democratic Party's broader goals, which sought to address the economic difficulties facing the nation.

In 1929, Peery resigned from Congress to accept an appointment to the State Corporation Commission, where he served until 1933. His experience in the House and his understanding of the legislative process positioned him well for this role, which involved overseeing various regulatory functions within the state.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Peery's legislative focus aligned with the interests of his constituents and the Democratic Party's platform. While specific details of his committee assignments and legislative initiatives are not extensively documented, it is known that he participated actively in the political discourse of the time, contributing to discussions on issues relevant to his district and the nation.

Peery's political career did not end with his departure from Congress. In 1933, he was encouraged by Senator Byrd to run for governor of Virginia, a position he successfully attained in the November election of that year. As governor, Peery implemented several significant reforms, including the establishment of unemployment insurance and the creation of the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Board following the repeal of Prohibition. He also played a key role in the development of Virginia's state parks system, signing legislation that led to the creation of multiple parks, which were intended to provide recreational opportunities and stimulate local economies during the Great Depression.

After completing his gubernatorial term, Peery continued to engage in public service, serving on the boards of trustees for Washington and Lee University and Hollins College. His contributions to Virginia's political landscape and his commitment to public service left a lasting impact on the state.

Peery passed away on October 14, 1952, in Richlands, Virginia, just two weeks shy of his 79th birthday. He was laid to rest in Maplewood Cemetery in Tazewell. His legacy includes not only his political achievements but also his role in shaping the governance of Virginia during a challenging period in American history.