Doughton, Robert Lee, 1863-1954

Robert Lee Doughton of Laurel Springs, Alleghany County, N.C., was a farmer, businessman, state legislator, and U.S. representative from North Carolina's Ninth District, 1911-1952. The following counties were in Doughton's district for at least part of his tenure in Congress: Madison, Yancey, Mitchell, Avery, Burke, Cleveland, Catawba, Lincoln, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Caldwell, Alexander, Watauga, Iredell, Rowan, Cabarrus, Stanly, Ashe, and Alleghany. Doughton was chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means from 1933 almost continually until 1952.

From the description of Robert Lee Doughton papers, 1913-1954. WorldCat record id: 27190219

Robert Lee Doughton of Laurel Springs, Alleghany County, N.C., was a farmer, businessman, state legislator, and United States representative from North Carolina's Ninth District, 1911-1952. The following counties were in Doughton's district for at least part of his tenure in Congress: Madison, Yancey, Mitchell, Avery, Burke, Cleveland, Catawba, Lincoln, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Caldwell, Alexander, Watauga, Iredell, Rowan, Cabarrus, Stanly, Ashe, and Alleghany. Doughton was chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means from 1933 almost continually until 1952.

Doughton was educated in the public schools and high schools of Laurel Springs and Sparta, N.C., and engaged in farming and raising of livestock at Laurel Springs. From 1903 through 1910 he was a member of the state Board of Agriculture. In 1908 and 1909 he served in the North Carolina Senate, and from 1909 through 1911 was a member of the state prison board. In 1911 he became president of the Deposit and Savings Bank, North Wilkesboro, N.C.

Doughton was elected to the 62nd Congress in 1910, his term beginning 4 March 1911, and served continuously through the 82nd Congress, January 1953. He announced his planned retirement in 1952 and was appointed Democratic national committeeman. In the spring of 1954 he resigned that post.

Robert Lee Doughton was married to Mrs. Robert Hicks of Concord, N.C., a widow whose maiden name was Lillie Stricker. She died in 1946. Their children included Claude Doughton of Laurel Springs, N.C.; J. Horton Doughton of Statesville, N.C.; Reba Doughton, who was hostess for her father after her mother's death; and Mrs. B. O. Edwards of Asheville, N.C. Doughton's older brother, Rufus A. Doughton, served for many years in the North Carolina General Assembly, and was lieutenant governor.

From the guide to the Robert Lee Doughton Papers, 1913-1954, (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Library. Southern Historical Collection.)