111th Congress, 2nd Session
Speaker of the House Michael Kerr of Indiana
March 15, 1827
On this date, Speaker of the House Michael Kerr of Indiana was born. Before entering politics, Kerr taught and practiced law. Elected to the 39th Congress (1865–1867), he served five non-consecutive terms in the House of Representatives. A party stalwart, the Indiana Representative served as a Democratic floor leader. After losing re-election to the 43rd Congress (1873–1875) by a slim margin, Kerr returned in the 44th Congress (1875–1877) where he was elected Speaker of the House on December 6, 1875. An Indiana newspaper, the Galveston Daily News, noted that Kerr, “was regarded with unbridled admiration by Democrats and almost universal dread and hatred by the more illiberal and unscrupulous class of Republicans.” In a party line vote of 173 to 106, the House elected Kerr Speaker on December 6, 1875. Ill for a number of years, Kerr presided over the House until he passed away on August 19, 1876. The Atlanta Journal Constitution eulogized, “Being an impressive speaker, and at all times fortified with facts, he commanded the attention of the house whenever he spoke.”
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Cite this Highlight
Office of History and Preservation, Office of the Clerk, http://clerk.house.gov/art_history/highlights.html?action=view&intID=206, (December 08, 2010).For Additional Information
Office of History and Preservation(202) 226-1300
history@mail.house.gov
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Serving five terms in the House, Speaker Michael Kerr of Indiana was known for impressive oratory skills.
Oil on canvas, Charles A. Gray, 1912, Collection of U.S. House of Representatives
Teaching Tip
Wielding the Gavel
Ask students to locate three stories pertaining to Speakers of the House. Have students select and conduct research on one of the Speakers using historical highlights and the Biographical Directory bibliography.
