Benjamin T. Pitts

Benjamin Thomas Pitts (died July 21, 1964) was an American politician and movie theater owner from Virginia. He served in the Virginia Senate and ran a chain of movie theaters in Virginia and West Virginia, including theaters in Fredericksburg, Culpeper and Richmond.

Early life Benjamin Thomas Pitts was born in Fredericksburg, Virginia. His mother's name was Victoria. His parents moved to the country for a time and then his family returned to Fredericksburg when he was eight. He attended public schools in Fredericksburg. His first job was working for plumber George W. Heflin.

Career

Pitts started in the movie theater business by running shows at the Opera House in Fredericksburg by renting the building for a night.

In 1933, Pitts was appointed to the city council of Fredericksburg to fill a vacancy. He was elected in 1936. He then served as president of the chamber of commerce for five terms. In 1933, he was named to the State Ports Authority. He served as treasurer there for five years. He was chairman and member of the state's Democratic campaign finance committee.

Personal life Pitts married Eleanor Hughlett, daughter of Robert H. Hughlett, on April 24, 1910, in Rockville, Maryland. They had a daughter, Mrs. Walter Lowry Jr. His wife died in 1955. He was a member of the Elks in Eastern Virginia, at one point serving as an exalted ruler and district deputy. He was also a member of Kiwanis. He died on July 21, 1964, aged 75, at the Medical College of Virginia Hospital in Richmond. He was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg. At the time of his death, his estate was valued at .