Winthrop Rockefeller was an American politician and philanthropist best known for serving as the first Republican governor of Arkansas since Reconstruction and for his contributions to various charitable causes. He was a third-generation member of the Rockefeller family.
Personal and Family Life
Born on May 1, 1912, in New York City, Winthrop was the son of philanthropists John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Abigail Greene Aldrich. He graduated from Loomis Chaffee School and attended Yale University from 1931 to 1934. Winthrop was married twice, first to Barbara Sears from 1948 to 1954, with whom he had one child, and later to Jeanette Edris from 1956 until their divorce in 1971.
Career Highlights
Winthrop Rockefeller moved to central Arkansas in 1953, where he founded Winrock Enterprises and Winrock Farms. His political career included being appointed chairman of the Arkansas Industrial Development Commission by Governor Faubus in 1955. He was known for initiating numerous philanthropic projects, including the construction of medical clinics in underserved areas and supporting higher education across the state.
Death and Legacy
Winthrop Rockefeller passed away on February 22, 1973, in Palm Springs, California, due to cancer. He left behind a significant legacy through his philanthropic efforts, which continue through the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation. His contributions to Arkansas governance and community welfare are remembered as impactful and transformative.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Governor & J.J. | 1970 | Governor of Arkansas (as Hon. Winthrop Rockefeller) |