Hardee, Cary A. (Cary Augustus), 1876-1957.

Cary Augustus Hardee served as Florida's twenty-third governor from January 4, 1921 to January 6, 1925. Hardee was born in Taylor County on November 13, 1876. Hardee's pre-gubernatorial career included employment as a school teacher in Taylor, Jefferson, and Madison Counties, and principal of the Perry School. He then began the study of law and was admitted to the Florida Bar at the turn of the century. In 1905, he was elected State Attorney for the Third Judicial Circuit, a position he held until 1913. Hardee also became involved in the banking profession, helping establish the First National Bank in Live Oak and the Farmer's Bank in Madison.

In 1915, Hardee won election to the Florida House of Representatives from Suwannee County and became Speaker of the House his first term of office. He was re-elected to the House in 1917.

In 1920, Hardee won the Democratic nomination for Governor and defeated Republican candidate George E. Gay in the general election. Hardee's term of office was a busy one. Constitutional amendments reapportioned the State Legislature and outlawed state income and inheritance taxes. The controversial convict-lease system was outlawed in the state, and the governor placed a strong emphasis on public education and fiscal responsibility.

Following his term, Hardee continued his involvement in the banking and legal fields. He campaigned for the Democratic nomination for governor in 1932 but was defeated. Hardee resided in Live Oak until his death on November 21, 1957.