Engel, Albert J. (Albert Joseph), 1888-1959

Prosecuting attorney for Missaukee County, Michigan, Republican State Senator, and U.S. Congressman from the 9th Michigan District from 1935 to 1951.

From the description of Albert Joseph Engel papers, 1885-1960. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 79108239

From the description of Albert Joseph Engel papers, 1911-1959. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 34418521

Albert J. Engel was born in New Washington, Ohio on January 1, 1888. He graduated from the law department of Northwestern University in 1910. He then was admitted to the bar and commenced the practice of law in Lake City, Michigan. He was prosecuting attorney of Missaukee County in 1916-1917 and 1919-1920. During the first World War, Engel served as a first lieutenant in the War Department, later promoted to captain where he served overseas for twenty-three months, 1917-1919.

Engel served four terms in the state senate 1921 and 1927-1931. He was elected to the U.S. Congress in 1934 from Michigan's Ninth District. He came to serve eight terms, from 1935 to 1951. While in the congress, Engel served ten years as a member and chairman of the House Armed Forces appropriations subcommittee. In 1943, he began a one-man investigation of Army waste in which he traveled about the country touring army bases. Upon his return Engel proposed reforms which saved the government billions of dollars. He did not seek reelection in 1950 but rather sought (without success) the Republican nomination for governor. In his retirement, Engel operated a Christmas tree plantation near Lake City. He died December 2, 1959.

From the guide to the Albert Joseph Engel Papers, 1885-1960, (Bentley Historical Library University of Michigan)