George Washington Glick, American lawyer and politician, 9th Governor of Kansas (b. 1827)

George Washington Glick, born on the nation's Independence Day, July 4, 1827, and passing on April 13, 1911, left an indelible mark on Kansas history as its ninth Governor. Notably, Glick holds the distinction of being the very first Democrat to serve as the state's chief executive, a remarkable achievement in what was then a predominantly Republican political landscape.

Early Life, Military Service, and Legal Apprenticeship

Glick's formative years were spent on his father's farm near Greencastle, Ohio, where he undoubtedly learned the values of hard work and self-reliance that would define his later career. The mid-19th century was a period of national expansion and conflict, and at a young age, Glick felt the call to serve his country. He enlisted for duty during the Mexican-American War (1846–1848); however, fate would have it that he saw no direct combat action. Following his brief military service, Glick embarked on a path that would shape his professional life. At the age of 21, he began diligently studying law, apprenticing in the esteemed law offices of Buckland and Hayes. This was a particularly significant experience, as one of his mentors was none other than Rutherford B. Hayes, who would later ascend to the presidency of the United States. Glick's dedication paid off, and he was admitted to the bar just two years later, subsequently establishing a respected, though initially moderate, law practice. It was during this period that he began to forge a reputation as an exceptionally diligent and capable attorney.

A New Chapter: Moving to Kansas and Civil War Service

In 1859, a pivotal year for the territory on the cusp of statehood and civil strife, Glick made the bold decision to relocate to Atchison, Kansas. This move placed him at the heart of a rapidly developing frontier. Upon arriving, he quickly formed a legal partnership with Alfred P. Otis, further solidifying his legal standing in the nascent state. The tumultuous years that followed saw the outbreak of the American Civil War, and Glick once again answered the call to duty, this time enlisting as a Union soldier. He served honorably in the 2nd Kansas Infantry, contributing to the Union cause during one of the most challenging periods in American history.

Distinguished Legislative Career

Following his military service, George Glick transitioned seamlessly into public service. In 1862, he was elected to the Kansas State Legislature, marking the beginning of a significant and impactful career in state politics. Over the next eighteen years, Glick served for fourteen of them, demonstrating remarkable consistency and dedication. His colleagues held him in high regard, describing him as "just and expert," a testament to his integrity and legislative skill. His influence within the legislature grew, culminating in his selection as Speaker pro tempore in 1876. Glick's extensive experience encompassed service in both houses of the state legislature, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process and the diverse needs of the Kansan populace.

The Governorship: Breaking Barriers and Shaping Kansas

In 1882, George Washington Glick achieved a momentous political victory, being elected Governor of Kansas. He served a full term, from 1883 to 1885. His election was groundbreaking not only because he became the state's ninth governor overall but, more significantly, because he was the very first Democrat to hold the governorship in a state that had been a stronghold for the Republican Party since the Civil War. This electoral triumph underscored Glick's widespread appeal and ability to bridge partisan divides. During his tenure, Governor Glick championed several crucial pieces of legislation that laid foundational groundwork for the state's development. These included the establishment of a vital railroad commission, tasked with regulating the powerful and often monopolistic railroad industry; a "good roads" law, which aimed to improve infrastructure and connectivity across the vast state; a comprehensive reassessment of the state's tax laws to ensure fairness and efficiency; and the creation of a livestock sanitary commission, a critical measure for an agriculturally dependent state to protect its vital animal resources from disease.

Life After Public Office and Lasting Legacy

After his successful governorship, Glick continued to serve the public in various capacities. He was appointed pension agent in Topeka by President Grover Cleveland, another prominent Democrat, demonstrating his continued political influence and connection at the national level. However, after fifteen dedicated years of civic service, Glick's political career was tragically curtailed by a severe throat infection. This debilitating condition nearly destroyed his ability to speak, making the demands of public life untenable. Despite this personal setback, Glick remained professionally active. He continued to practice law, notably serving as an attorney for various railroad companies, leveraging his extensive knowledge and experience. Beyond his legal work, he also managed his farm, maintaining a connection to his agricultural roots. Glick's commitment to his adopted state extended to its history and culture; he was a charter member and the first vice president of the Kansas Historical Society, playing a crucial role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Kansas. George Washington Glick passed away in his adopted hometown of Atchison, Kansas, on April 13, 1911, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated public servant, a pioneering political figure, and a foundational contributor to the state's development.

Frequently Asked Questions About George Washington Glick

Who was George Washington Glick?
George Washington Glick was the ninth Governor of Kansas, serving from 1883 to 1885. He is particularly notable as the first Democrat to hold the governorship in the state's history.
What was George Glick's early life and education like?
Glick was raised on his father's farm near Greencastle, Ohio. He briefly served in the Mexican–American War without seeing combat. At age 21, he began studying law and was admitted to the bar two years later, establishing a practice and earning a reputation as a diligent lawyer. He famously studied under Rutherford B. Hayes, who later became U.S. President.
When did Glick move to Kansas and what was his role during the Civil War?
Glick moved to Atchison, Kansas, in 1859, where he formed a law partnership. During the Civil War, he served as a Union soldier in the 2nd Kansas Infantry.
What was significant about Glick's legislative career?
Glick served in the Kansas State Legislature for 14 of 18 years, starting in 1862. He was Speaker pro tempore in 1876 and served in both houses. He was highly respected by his colleagues, who considered him "just and expert."
Why was Glick's election as governor particularly notable?
His election in 1882 was highly significant because Kansas was historically a strong Republican state, especially after the Civil War. Glick's victory as the first Democrat governor marked a pivotal shift in the state's political landscape.
What major legislation did Governor Glick oversee during his tenure?
During his time as governor (1883–1885), Glick was instrumental in enacting several key pieces of legislation, including the creation of a railroad commission, a "good roads" law to improve infrastructure, a reassessment of tax laws, and the establishment of a livestock sanitary commission.
What led to the end of George Glick's political career?
After 15 years of civic service, George Glick was forced to abandon his political career due to a severe throat infection that nearly destroyed his ability to speak, making it impossible for him to fulfill public speaking duties.
What did George Glick do after his time as governor and political retirement?
Following his governorship and political retirement, Glick continued his legal work as an attorney for various railroad companies. He also managed his farm and played a crucial role as a charter member and the first vice president of the Kansas Historical Society, contributing to the preservation of state history.