Edward J. Breen Papers

Collection

Identifier: MsC0334

Staff Only
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Scope and Contents

The papers of Edward J. Breen consist of five boxes (2.5 linear feet) of manuscripts dating from 1936 to 1973. Arranged chronologically within an alphabetical sequence, these papers relate primarily to Breen's political career. Subject files, Senate bills, correspondence, clippings, and speech material make up the bulk of the collection. There are thirty-seven folders of Senate bills, some with drafts and correspondence. The correspondence files include letters from Guy M. Gillette, Clyde L. Herring, and Nelson G. Kraschel. There are also two folders concerning Fred Gilchrist. Subject files range in topics from the Townsend National Recovery Plan to the Mutual Affiliates Advisory Committee to the Democratic Party.

Dates

Creation: 1936 - 1973
Creation: Majority of material found within 1936-1942

Creator

Breen, Edward J. (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Biographical / Historical

Edward J. Breen (1899 -- 1978) of Fort Dodge, Iowa, attended the University of Wisconsin and Drake University. After completing his law degree at Drake, Breen entered into practice with his brother in their hometown. He was also a broadcasting station executive in Fort Dodge. He owned the radio station (KVFD) in Fort Dodge and in 1953 bought a television station (KQTV later renamed KVFD TV).

Breen was a member of the Democratic Party and was president of the Young Democratic Club of Iowa in 1933. He became the Webster County Attorney that same year, and remained so until 1937. Breen was elected to the Iowa state senate in 1936, serving until 1942. He was the Democratic floor leader for some time. He ran two unsuccessful campaigns, one for governor in 1940 and one for U.S. Representative in 1942.

Extent

2.50 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Iowa state legislator, attorney, and broadcasting station executive. Senate bills, correspondence, speeches, and subject files ranging from the Democratic Party to the Townsend National Recovery Plan document his career in Iowa 's state senate.