Ellis Yarnal Berry

Ellis Yarnall Berry (October 6, 1902 – April 1, 1999) was an attorney, newspaper publisher and politician, elected to the United States House of Representatives.

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Early life and education

Berry was born in Larchwood, Iowa, and graduated from Philip High School in Philip, South Dakota.

He was a student at Morningside College from 1920 through 1922. He transferred to the University of South Dakota, where he completed his undergraduate work and studied law, graduating with a law degree in 1927. He was admitted to the bar that same year.

Career

Berry started his law practice in Kennebec, South Dakota; two years later, he moved to McLaughlin. He was elected as state's attorney, probate court judge for Corson County, and mayor of McLaughlin. He served as the publisher of the newspaper Mclaughlin Messenger beginning in 1938. He was editor of the State Bar Association Journal from 1938 through 1950.

Politics

Berry was elected to the South Dakota State Senate from 1938 through 1942, a total of two terms.

In 1950, Berry was elected as a Republican to the United States House of Representatives, and reelected nine consecutive times, retiring in 1971. Beginning in 1952, he also published the McIntosh News and Morristown World.

After retiring from Congress, Berry he settled in Rapid City, South Dakota. He lived there until his death in 1999.

Legacy and honors

United States House of Representatives
Preceded by
Francis H. Case
United States Representative (2nd District) for South Dakota
1951–1971
Succeeded by
James Abourezk

References

External links