Prentiss M. Brown

Prentiss Marsh Brown (June 18, 1889 – December 19, 1973) was an American attorney and politician who served as a United States Senator and U.S. Representative from Michigan. A member of the Democratic Party, he was known for his advocacy of New Deal policies during the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Brown played a significant role in the establishment of the Mackinac Bridge and is remembered for his contributions to public infrastructure and economic recovery efforts during the Great Depression.

Early Life and Education

Prentiss Brown was born in St. Ignace, Michigan, to James J. Brown and Minnie Marsh Brown. He graduated from Albion College in 1911 and earned a law degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1914. Brown returned to St. Ignace to practice law and became involved in local Democratic politics, which was rare in the predominantly Republican region of northern Michigan.

Political Career

Brown’s political career began when he was elected as the prosecuting attorney of Mackinac County in 1915, serving until 1926. He later served as a United States Representative for Michigan's 11th congressional district from 1933 to 1937, a period marked by the New Deal's sweeping reforms.

In 1936, Brown was elected to the United States Senate and served from January 3, 1937, to January 3, 1943. During his tenure, he strongly supported President Roosevelt’s New Deal initiatives and played a pivotal role in shaping federal economic policies aimed at combating the Great Depression. He also chaired committees addressing transportation and public works.

Brown was an advocate for the construction of the Mackinac Bridge, a project he championed even after leaving public office. The bridge, completed in 1957, significantly improved connectivity between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas and remains one of his enduring legacies.

Later Career

After losing his re-election bid for the Senate in 1942 to Homer Ferguson, Brown returned to the practice of law. He remained active in Michigan politics and public service.

Death and Legacy

Prentiss Brown died on December 19, 1973, in St. Ignace, Michigan. He is buried in Lakeside Cemetery in St. Ignace.

See Also

• United States Senate
• Mackinac Bridge
• New Deal

References

• United States Congress. "Prentiss M. Brown (id: B000915)." Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
• Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.
• Michigan Historical Commission. "Prentiss Brown and the Mackinac Bridge." Michigan History Magazine.