Frederick H. Gillett

TIMEMagazine17Nov1924

Frederick H. Gillett

Frederick H. Gillett (October 16, 1851 – July 31, 1935) was an American politician who served as the 42nd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1919 to 1925. He was a member of the Republican Party and represented Massachusetts in the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Gillett was born in Westfield, Massachusetts. He attended local schools before enrolling at Amherst College, where he graduated in 1874. He then studied law at Harvard Law School and was admitted to the bar in 1877.

Political Career[edit | edit source]

Gillett began his political career in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, serving from 1890 to 1891. He was then elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1892, where he served until 1925. During his tenure in the House, Gillett was known for his conservative views and his support for business interests.

Speaker of the House[edit | edit source]

Gillett was elected Speaker of the House in 1919, succeeding Champ Clark. As Speaker, he presided over the House during a period of significant change, including the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. He also oversaw the House during the early years of Prohibition.

United States Senate[edit | edit source]

In 1924, Gillett was elected to the United States Senate, where he served one term from 1925 to 1931. During his time in the Senate, he continued to advocate for conservative policies and was a strong supporter of President Calvin Coolidge.

Later Life and Death[edit | edit source]

After leaving the Senate, Gillett retired from public life. He died on July 31, 1935, in Springfield, Massachusetts, and was buried in Pine Hill Cemetery in Westfield.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Gillett's tenure as Speaker of the House is remembered for his efforts to maintain order and decorum in the House and for his role in significant legislative achievements of the early 20th century.