Our Arklahoma Heritage: Charkes H. Brough served as Governor of Arkansas during crucial WWI period
- Dennis McCaslin
- 31 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Charles Hillman Brough was born on July 9 1876, near Ozark in Franklin County
His family lineage traced back to early settlers in the region with roots in the American South.
His father, Charles Milton Brough, a farmer and local leader, instilled in young Charles the values of hard work and community involvement.Brough pursued higher education with remarkable determination. He graduated from Mississippi College in 1894, earned a degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1898, and completed studies at the University of Mississippi in 1901.
This rigorous academic path focused on history, political science and economics. It prepared him for a life of scholarship and public service.
He built an extensive career in teaching serving at Mississippi College Hillman College and the University of Arkansas. His work as an educator and lecturer earned him respect across the state.
Brough married Anne Wade Roark in 1908. The couple had no children but maintained a devoted partnership. Anne was an active partner in his public life and shared his commitment to education and reform.
In 1916, . Brough was elected as a Democrat and became the 25th Governor of Arkansas, serving from 1917 to 1921. His administration was marked by significant progressive reforms.
The state reformatory for women was founded a girls' industrial school was opened, an illiteracy commission was created, and a law was passed allowing women to vote in all primary elections.
The Arkansas Corporation Commission was also established during his term. As governor he led the state through World War I, organizing mobilization efforts, Liberty Bond drives, and patriotic initiatives.
After leaving office, Brough continued his public service. He served as director of the State Public Information Bureau from 1925 to 1928 was president of Central Baptist College in 1929, and later chaired the Virginia District of Columbia Boundary Commission from 1934 until his death.
Charles Hillman Brough died on December 15 1935, at the age of 59 in Washington D.C.
His body was returned to Arkansas, and he was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Conway.
Brough rose from the hills of Franklin County to become one of Arkansas most forward thinking governors. His life of scholarship teaching and progressive leadership left a lasting mark on the state.
From his rural roots he carried the values of hard work and community service into a career that advanced education reform and opportunity for all Arkansans. His story stands as a proud chapter in Arkansas heritage.
