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Lew M. O'Bannon


Lew McClellan O'Bannon

August 18, 1864-February 16, 1943

Lew McClellan O'Bannon was born in Corydon, Indiana. He attended public schools in Harrison County and worked with his father on the farm and in the manufacture of shingles. He taught school for nine terms while he studied law.

He began to practice law in Corydon in 1895. A life-long Democrat, O'Bannon began his political career as county surveyor and county recorder. It was noted in his 1932 campaign brochure for the U.S. Senate, that he became a platform orator for his party before he could vote. He was a director of the Savings and Loan Association of Corydon for many years.

O'Bannon served as private secretary to Congressman William Taylor Zenor for ten years. He was owner and editor of the Corydon Democrat beginning in 1907. He was named chairman of the Democratic State Convention in 1928 and served as a member of the George Rogers Clark Memorial Commission of Indiana and the Federal George Rogers Clark Sesquicentennial Commission and as a member of the Historical Commission.

Typically described as a prominent Democratic leader and a public-spirited man, Lew O'Bannon is the grandfather of Indiana Governor, Frank O'Bannon.

Sources:
Indiana Biography Series, Indianapolis: Indiana State Library, 8:106; 9:113.