Emmett Forest Branch

Emmett Forest Branch (1874-1932), a reform-minded Republican, served Indiana as a legislator, lieutenant governor, and governor. He served in the Spanish-American War and WWI. Branch spent three terms in the Indiana House of Representatives from 1903 to 1908, rising to Speaker of the House. In 1920, he was elected lieutenant governor under Governor Warren McCray, and he became governor on April 30, 1924, after McCray resigned. During his brief term, he advocated improvements to roads, schools, and other state institutions, promoted children’s health, and dedicated the Riley Hospital for Children. He left office on January 12, 1925, and returned to his house in his native Martinsville as a lawyer and businessman.

Martinsville, Indiana · United States