13 Facts About Alton Lennon

Alton Asa Lennon was an American Democratic politician who represented North Carolina in the US House of Representatives and Senate.

Alton Lennon first served as an interim appointment to the Senate from 1953 to 1954, unsuccessfully sought re-election, and later represented the Cape Fear region in the House from 1957 to 1973.

Alton Lennon was born in Wilmington, North Carolina August 17,1906.

Alton Lennon was the son of Rosser Yates Lennon and Minnie Lennon.

Alton Lennon attended the public schools, and graduated from Wake Forest College in 1929.

Alton Lennon was admitted to the bar in 1929 and began practice in Wilmington.

Alton Lennon served as the judge of New Hanover County Recorder's Court from 1934 to 1942.

Alton Lennon was elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 1947, and served until 1951.

Alton Lennon was appointed on July 10,1953, as a Democrat to the United States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Willis Smith and served from July 10,1953, to November 28,1954.

Alton Lennon was an unsuccessful candidate for the nomination in 1954 to fill the vacancy.

Alton Lennon resumed law practice, then was elected as a Democrat to the 85th Congress, and was reelected to the seven succeeding Congresses.

Alton Lennon voted in Congress against civil rights and social legislation, although about half of the constituents in his district were African-Americans or Native Americans.

Alton Lennon voted against the Civil Rights Acts of 1957,1960,1964, and 1968 as well as the 24th Amendment to the US Constitution and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.