Remembering Gov. James E. Holshouser Jr.

Former Gov. James E. Holshouser Jr., the first Republican to be elected the state’s chief executive in the 20th century, died earlier today. Holshouser was 78.

A native of Boone, Holshouser earned his undergraduate degree from Davidson College. After earning a law degree from UNC in 1960, he returned to Watauga County to practice there. In 1962 Holshouser was elected to the N.C. House, where he served four terms. When he won the governorship in 1972, at the age of 38, Holshouser became the nation’s youngest chief executive in the 20th century.

Over the course of his political career, Holshouser found himself the subject of photographer Hugh Morton.

James E. Holhouser Jr. with his father, James E. Holshouser Sr.
James E. Holhouser Jr. with his father, James E. Holshouser Sr. Probably taken at Grandfather Golf and Country Club, Linville, N.C.

James E. Holshouser with Hugh Morton, possibly at an event tied to James B. Hunt's succession as Governor.
James E. Holshouser with Hugh Morton, possibly at an event tied to James B. Hunt’s succession as Governor.
Holshouser at dedication of N.C. Highway 321 near Boone, also named Holshouser Highway. Then-Governor James G. Martin is second from left.
Holshouser at dedication of N.C. Highway 321 near Boone, also named Holshouser Highway. Then-Governor James G. Martin is second from left.

One thought on “Remembering Gov. James E. Holshouser Jr.”

  1. Such a talented person left us so early…
    Rest in peace, our dear friend. You always will be in our hearts, and in hearth of thousand of students, who will remember you.

    Reply

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