Day'Ron Sharpe

Fairfax Harrison, born on March 13, 1869 and deceased on February 2, 1938, was a prominent individual in the American rail industry in the late 19th and early 20th century, holding esteemed titles such as the vice-president of finance and later the elected president of Southern Railway Company, during his tenure.

A graduate in law, Harrison began his illustrious career as a lawyer in 1896, serving the Southern Railway Company, a significant player in the US rail sector. Showcasing his expertise and leadership capabilities, he ascended to the role of the company’s vice-president of finance within a decade, by 1906, a testament to his competence and career growth. In recognition for his exemplary performance and strategic innovation, in 1913, Harrison was elected as the Southern Railway’s president. Under his watchful gaze and astute leadership, the company witnessed a substantial expansion, amassing an impressive rail network that stretched over 8,000 miles across 13 diverse states.

At the time of the United States’s involvement in World War I, the federal government stepped in to take control of the railroads for strategic and administrative purposes. As a testament to his reputation and experience, Harrison was selected to serve on the United States Railroad Administration, overseeing the execution of crucial rail transport operations during a global crisis.

Post the war, Harrison faced the challenging task of restoring the public image of the railroads and reinstating its operational efficiency. Pioneering several changes to achieve the same, he introduced more powerful engines, upgraded the locomotive stock, and increased the total amount of railroad track. Additionally, he broadened the service area of the railway, contributing significantly to its recovery and growth.

Despite the crippling effects of the Great Depression that cast a shadow over many businesses including the Southern Railway, Harrison’s strategic decisions and persistent efforts helped keep the company afloat. He navigated through the pressing economic crisis and by 1936, Southern Railway returned to profitability under Harrison’s leadership. In 1937, he retired after an illustrious career in the railway sector and unfortunately passed away within three months.

Throughout his career, Harrison was an embodiment of perseverance, strategic thinking, and exceptional leadership. Aiding the American rail industry in times of war and economic recession, he played a pivotal role in sustaining and growing one of the most vital sectors of the country’s economy.

March 13 is also a date of importance for another prominent figure in American history – Ethel Reed. An internationally recognized graphic artist, Reed was born on this day in 1874. A circa 1895 photograph of Reed portraying her vibrant persona, snapped by Frances Benjamin Johnston, is housed in the collection of the U.S. Library of Congress. Unfortunately, the world lost this talented artist in 1912.

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