Description:
The personal memoirs of U.S. Senator James T. Broyhill (R-NC) recounting stories from his 95 years of family life and public life of service to the citizens of North Carolina and the nation as a U.S. Congressman and Senator for 24 years from 1963-1984 and thereafter as Secretary of Commerce for the State of North Carolina. He recounts in first-person about growing up in Lenoir, working jobs after school and weekends, going off to the University of North Carolina where he met Louise Robbins, his bride of 73 years. He shares about his work life at Broyhill Furniture Industries, his introduction to politics and his experiences in Washington, D. C, and abroad across two-and-a-half decades of public service. He shares his thoughts on Statesmanship, Friendship, and presents in delightful detail a talk he enjoyed presenting, "Presidents I Have Known." Added to his reminiscences and commentary are recollections and appreciations from those who worked with him and for him. As well, this volume includes the eulogies delivered at his funeral and published tributes at his passing which confirm that Senator James T. Broyhill left a legacy of service to his constituents which set him apart notably from other elected officials and explain why he, as a leader in the Republican Party, was lauded and loved by many, and most especially by his extensive family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Brief description: James Thomas Broyhill began writing his memoirs after a 24-year career of public service as a U.S. Congressman and U.S. Senator from North Carolina and as Secretary of Commerce for the state. He grew up in Lenoir, the home of Broyhill Furniture Industries, a successful enterprise begun by his father. Born in 1927, he lived an energetic 95 years, passing away in early 2023 after serving his constituents in North Carolina from Washington, D. C. from 1963 to 1984.