Robert Samuel Kerr: Oklahoma's Pioneer King (1896-1963)

Kerr-McGee Oil and Gas, McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation, first Oklahoma governor and senator born in Oklahoma-- all of these relate to Robert S. Kerr. This book is a biography of his life and accomplishments. Born in a wilderness log cabin in the last decade of the nineteenth century, he died leaving a mansion built for his family. Born into a family of poverty, he died a multi-millionaire. Born in an area of lawlessness, he died as the most powerful man in the U. S. Congress. Struggling to find meaningful employment as a young man, he died as the head of a company that employed thousands across the country. Experiencing the early, sudden loss of his family, he died leaving a large family. He struggled as a public speaker in his early life, he died as one of the most powerful orators in the Senate and the country. Born into a pioneer family, he died as the acknowledged “King of the Senate.” Robert Kerr fought for the common people of Oklahoma and provided benefits to the surrounding states. Early in his life he risked sharing his big dreams with others. He was a very successful risk taker in business. He was a deeply religious person who contributed regularly and generously to charitable causes. He dared to take unpopular positions on controversial issues because of his moral beliefs. He knew how to compromise on legislative concerns and when to apply pressure on others to support his causes. U. S. presidents submitted to his legislative leadership. Although he died over a half century ago, his legacy continues and is enjoyed by a new generation largely unaware of his contributions. His life is a model for any who would dare to dream big dreams and work for the betterment of mankind.