Gus Franklin Mutscher facts for kids
Gus Franklin Mutscher (born November 19, 1932 – died February 26, 2023) was an important American politician from Texas. He served as the Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives from 1969 to 1972. During his time, he faced a major challenge related to a financial issue known as the Sharpstown bank stock issue. Although he was initially involved in a legal case, he was later cleared on appeal. Some of his political opponents, even from his own Democratic Party, were known as the "Dirty 30." These included Joseph Hugh Allen and Carlos F. Truan from different Texas cities.
Early Life and Education
Gus Mutscher was born on November 19, 1932, in a small community called William Penn. This community is located in Washington County. He went to school in William Penn and later graduated from Brenham High School in Brenham.
He then attended Blinn College, which is a community college in Brenham. He received a baseball scholarship to play there. After earning his Associate of Arts degree from Blinn College, Mutscher went on to the University of Texas at Austin. In 1956, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. He also received a reserve commission to serve in the United States Army.
Political Journey
Gus Mutscher began his career working for the Borden Company. In 1960, when he was 28 years old, he was first elected to the Texas House of Representatives. This was the same year that Kennedy and Johnson won the election in Texas.
After serving in the state legislature, Mutscher took on another important role. He was first appointed, and then elected, as the administrative county judge for his home, Washington County. He lived in Brenham, which is the county seat.
Later Life
Gus Mutscher married Donna Axum, who was crowned Miss America in 1964. She was from El Dorado, Arkansas. Gus Mutscher passed away on February 26, 2023, at the age of 90.
