J. Mark Wilcox

James Mark Wilcox (May 21, 1890 – February 3, 1956) was a U.S. representative from Florida. He is remembered as the author of the Wilcox Municipal Bankruptcy Act, which became law in 1934, a bill which initially allowed a city in his district, West Palm Beach, to adjust its bonded indebtedness and avoid bankruptcy. It was later invoked to help New York City avoid bankruptcy in 1972.

Early life and career

James Mark Wilcox, commonly known by his middle name, was born May 21, 1890, in Willacoochee, Georgia, the second son of Dr. Jefferson Taylor Wilcox and his wife Marian Henson Wilcox. He attended public schools and Emory University.

Later career and death

Following his 1938 electoral defeat Wilcox resumed the practice of law in Miami, Florida. Later, he served as attorney for the Dade County Port Authority/Greater Miami Traffic Association from 1945 until his death at his farm, ChrisMar, in White Springs, Florida, on February 3, 1956.

Wilcox's body was interred in Woodlawn Park Cemetery, Miami, Florida.

Legacy Wilcox is the namesake of Miami International Airport, the official name of which is J. Mark Wilcox Field.

Footnotes