Harry E. Atkinson
American politician (1920–2001)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Harry Eugene Atkinson (February 6, 1920 – June 30, 2001)[1] was the mayor of Newport News, Virginia from July 1, 1974 to July 1, 1976.[2] His single term in office saw the development of two major landmark buildings in the city's midtown area - the Rouse Tower office complex in 1974[3] and Newmarket North Mall in 1975. Also completed during Atkinson's term was the first span of the four-lane James River Bridge that would eventually replace the original two-lane bridge.[4]
February 6, 1920
Harry E. Atkinson | |
|---|---|
| 21st Mayor of Newport News, Virginia | |
| In office July 1, 1974 – July 1, 1976 | |
| Preceded by | J. William Hornsby |
| Succeeded by | Joseph C. Ritchie |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Harry Eugene Atkinson February 6, 1920 Newport News, Virginia, U.S. |
| Died | June 30, 2001 (aged 81) Newport News, Virginia, U.S. |
| Resting place | Quantico National Cemetery, Quantico, Virginia, U.S. |
| Party | Democratic |
| Spouse |
Lora Catherine Thompson
(m. 1943) |
| Parent(s) | Joseph J Atkinson Lucille Kempton |
| Profession | Politician |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch/service | United States Marine Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
After serving as mayor, Atkinson led a group of Newport News citizens and the Newport News Historical Commission in creating Potter's Field, a city park on the former site of the Warwick County Poor Farm.
