Sumter Lowry papers

Collection

Identifier: MS-1989-07

No requestable containers
Staff Only

Abstract

Sumter Lowry papers consists of correspondence, speeches, reports, maps, news clippings, and publications with business, military, and political activities ranging from 1911- 1986.

Dates

Created: 1911-1986

Creator

Lowry, Sumter L. (1893-1985) (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

None. The contents of this collection may be subject to copyright. Visit the United States Copyright Office's website at http://www.copyright.gov/ for more information.

Biographical or Historical Information

Sumter Lowry was born in St. Augustine, FL on August 27, 1893 to Sumter DeLeon Lowry and Willie Miller Lowry. Sumter Lowry was a Lt. General in the National Guard, a businessman, and political activist. In 1894 the Lowry family moved to the Tampa Bay area, by 1914 Sumter Lowry began his military career creating Company H and Infantry Company. In 1916 Sumter married Elizabeth Bellamy Parkhill, together they had 5 children. His military career included organizing the 116th Field Artillery Regiment of the Florida National Guard in 1921, as well as establishing Benjamin Field camp (Renamed Fort Homer Hesterly in 1940). By 1934 he received a promotion to Brigadier General and command over the 56th Field Artillery U.S. National Guard. Concurrent with his military career, Lowry established the Victory National Life Insurance in 1921 serving as president. In 1928, he served on the board for Gulf Life Insurance after a merger with Victory National Life Insurance. In 1952, Sumter Lowry retired to civilian life as a Lt. General. He continued to be active in business, community affairs, and politics until his death in 1985 at the age of 91.