305

Plaque presented to Theodore Francis Green upon becoming the oldest senator in American history.

Providence, RI: Gorham Co., 17 June 1956
Bronze, 7 x 10½ inches, mounted on wooden base, 9¼ x 12¾ inches, with a total thickness of ¾ inches; minimal wear

Theodore Francis Green (1867-1966) was a long-serving and much beloved Rhode Island politician: governor from 1933 to 1937, and then United States Senator from 1937 to 1961. He was a prominent supporter of New Deal and civil rights programs. The state's primary airport has been named in his honor since 1938. This plaque was presented to him on 17 June 1956 when he set a notable record, becoming the oldest senator in American history. The next day's Providence Journal described the congratulations he received from Presidents Truman and Eisenhower, and the reception where this plaque was presented to him by Congressman John E. Fogarty on behalf of "his fellow citizens of Rhode Island at Washington, D.C." The plaque was created at the foundry of Rhode Island's renowned Gorham Manufacturing Company. It describes Green as: 

"Rhode Island's distinguished son, young in spirit and vigorous in endeavor, who this day has attained seniority in age among all members of the United States Senate since the foundation of the Republic." 

Green remained in office through age 93, with this plaque hanging in his Senate office until his retirement. It is said to have been obtained from his estate.

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