Caleb Houstan

Fairfax Harrison was a prominent American lawyer and businessperson, born on the 13th of March 1869. He is best remembered for his contributions to the Southern Railway Company where he served in various capacities including as a lawyer, the vice-president of finance, and as president. His tenure saw the company grow significantly in size and influence.

In 1896, Fairfax Harrison commenced his career with the Southern Railway Company serving as their legal counsel. A natural and talented leader, he worked his way up the corporate ladder and by 1906, he held the position of vice-president of finance. His most significant achievement came seven years later, when he was elected as president in 1913.

Under his potent leadership, Southern Railway Company witnessed immense growth and development. The railway network expanded drastically to cover a staggering 8,000 miles, spanning 13 states across the United States. This marked an unprecedented period of success and expansion for the company.

As the United States entered World War I, the federal government gained control over the railways. Fairfax Harrison took up an active role in the newly formed United States Railroad Administration that oversaw the running of the railroads during wartime.

Upon the conclusion of the war, Harrison returned to the Southern Railway Company with a renewed determination. He worked assiduously to ameliorate the company’s public relations, which were still on edge due to the government’s prior control. Harrison also spearheaded operational advancements and aimed at upgrading the locomotive stock by introducing more technologically advanced and power-packed engines.

He was instrumental in their strategic decision-making process and secured a significant increase in the volume of railroad track owned by the Southern Railway Company. Owing to his crucial initiatives, the area serviced by the railway was also substantially expanded.

However, soon the Great Depression engulfed the nation and Southern Railway was severely affected as well. Despite the formidable economic challenges, Fairfax Harrison was undeterred. He fought tooth and nail to keep the company afloat during these tumultuous times, and by 1936 he achieved this seemingly impossible task; the Southern Railway was back in profits.

After an astoundingly successful career at the Southern Railway, Harrison decided to take a step back and bid adieu to the corporate world. In 1937 he retired, yet his remarkable leadership legacy continued to steer the company forward. Tragically, he only had three months of peaceful retirement as he breathed his last on February 2, 1938.

March 13 isn’t only significant for Fairfax Harrison’s birth, but it’s also the birthdate of Ethel Reed, a renowned American graphic artist. Born in 1874, Reed was recognized globally for her creativity and artistic prowess. A photograph dating back to circa 1895, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, immortalizes Reed and is currently housed in the U.S. Library of Congress.

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