Cary A. Hardee

Cary Augustus Hardee (November 13, 1876 – November 21, 1957) was an American educator, lawyer, banker, and conservative politician who served as the 23rd governor of Florida.

Biography

Early life and career Born in Taylor County, Florida, he spent most of his life in Live Oak, Florida. He was a teacher until 1900 when he was admitted to the bar and began practicing law. Additionally, he was a banker, establishing the First National Bank of Live Oak in 1902 and later serving as its president. He also organized the Mayo State Bank and was president of the Branford State Bank.

Political career In 1905 he became the state's attorney for the Third Judicial District. He served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 1915 to 1919, and was Speaker of the Florida House.

Gubernatorial campaign issues Hardee identified his positions on the issues of better and more efficient government, taxation, waterways and roads, agriculture, and veterans' affairs in a 1920 newspaper article. He was elected in 1920.

Governorship He took office as governor on January 4, 1921. He also halted the practice of leasing state prisoners out to private businesses, following the death of Martin Tabert.

He offered to send in National Guard troops in response to the Rosewood Massacre but the local sheriff refused the offer.

Post-governorship Hardee left office on January 6, 1925.

Honors and memorials Hardee County, Florida is named in his honor.

Electoral history