Harvey V. Higley
American businessman (1892–1986)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Harvey Vanzandt Higley (October 26, 1892 – October 15, 1986) was an American businessman, civil servant and political operative.
Harvey Higley | |
|---|---|
| Administrator of Veterans Affairs | |
| In office July 22, 1953 – November 13, 1957 | |
| President | Dwight Eisenhower |
| Preceded by | Carl Gray |
| Succeeded by | Sumner Whittier |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Harvey Vanzandt Higley February 12, 1893 |
| Died | October 15, 1986 (aged 93) |
| Party | Republican |
| Education | University of Wisconsin, Madison (BS) |
Early life, family and education
Higley was born in Cheshire, Ohio. He studied chemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, graduating in October 1915.[1] He served in World War I.
Career
He worked for the Ansul Chemical Company of Marinette, Wisconsin, which specialized in making fire retardant chemicals. Higley eventually became the company's president (1938–48)[2] and chairman of the board.[3]
Higley was also active in politics and veteran's affairs. He joined the American Legion and served as Wisconsin State Commander from 1941 to 1942.[4]
From 1947 to 1953, he was chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin. In July 1953, President Dwight D. Eisenhower appointed Higley to be the Administrator of Veterans Affairs,[5][6] where he helped to establish Veterans Day as a federal holiday.[7]
