Philip W. McKinney facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Philip Watkins McKinney
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| 41st Governor of Virginia | |
| In office January 1, 1890 – January 1, 1894 |
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| Lieutenant | James Hoge Tyler |
| Preceded by | Fitzhugh Lee |
| Succeeded by | Charles Triplett O'Ferrall |
| Member of the Virginia House of Delegates | |
| In office 1858 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | March 17, 1832 Buckingham County, Virginia |
| Died | March 1, 1899 (aged 66) Farmville, Virginia |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouses | Ann Fleming Christian (Divorced) Annie Clay |
| Alma mater | Hampden–Sydney College, Washington College |
Philip Watkins McKinney (born March 17, 1832 – died March 1, 1899) was an American lawyer, soldier, and politician. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates. McKinney was also a lawyer for Prince Edward County. Later, he was elected as the 41st Governor of Virginia. He served as governor from 1890 to 1894.
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Early Life and Education
Philip McKinney was born in New Store, in Buckingham County, Virginia. His parents were Charles and Martha McKinney. He went to Hampden–Sydney College for his college education. Philip graduated with honors in 1851.
After college, McKinney studied law. He attended Washington College. His law teacher was John White Brockenbrough. After finishing his studies, he became a lawyer. Philip McKinney was married twice. He had one child from each marriage.
Soldier and Politician
In 1858, McKinney was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. He represented Buckingham County. When the Civil War began, he joined the Confederate army. He was an officer in Company K of the 4th Virginia Cavalry.
In 1863, he was badly hurt. This happened during the Battle of Brandy Station. His injury meant he could no longer fight in the war.
Post-War Career
After the war, McKinney started a law practice. He worked in Farmville. Soon, he returned to politics. For about twenty years, he served as a lawyer for Prince Edward County.
During this time, he also ran for several other offices. He tried to become a U.S. Congressman. He also ran for Virginia Attorney General and Governor. However, he lost these elections.
Governor of Virginia
McKinney ran for Governor a second time in 1889. This time, he won by a large margin. He beat Republican William Mahone. McKinney received 57.19% of the votes.
As governor, his main goal was to improve Virginia's economy. He also worked to make the Virginia Democratic party stronger.
Later Life and Legacy
After his term as governor ended, McKinney left public office. He retired to private life. He lived with his wife in Farmville, Virginia.
Philip McKinney passed away in Farmville in 1899. He was buried in Farmville Cemetery. His old house, built in the Queen Anne style, can still be seen in Farmville today.
