James Hoge Tyler (1846-1925) returned to southwest Virginia after serving in the Confederate Army to assume the responsibilities of the family farm.  The depressed economic conditions of the region developed in him an early interest in state politics, and he served one term in the state senate (1877-1879) as a friend of the farmer.

During the 1880's, while becoming a successful businessman and commercial farmer, he developed the added reputation of a political workhorse attempting to restore Democratic control in the 9th Congressional District.  After two unsuccessful attempts, Tyler was elected governor in 1897.  After leaving the governorship in 1902, Tyler continued to maintain an interest in state and national affairs until his death in 1925.
 
 

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