Preceded by Francis H. Case Party Republican Party Role Politician | Name Ellis Berry Political party Republican Succeeded by James Abourezk | |
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Born October 6, 1902
Larchwood, Iowa ( 1902-10-06 ) Alma mater Morningside College
University of South Dakota School of Law Died April 1, 1999, Rapid City, South Dakota, United States Education University of South Dakota, Morningside College, University of South Dakota School of Law | ||
Ellis Yarnall Berry (October 6, 1902 – April 1, 1999) was an attorney, newspaper publisher and politician, elected to the United States House of Representatives.
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Early life and education
Berry was born in Larchwood, Iowa, and graduated from Philip High School in Philip, South Dakota.
He was a student at Morningside College from 1920 through 1922. He transferred to the University of South Dakota, where he completed his undergraduate work and studied law, graduating with a law degree in 1927. He was admitted to the bar that same year.
Career
Berry started his law practice in Kennebec, South Dakota; two years later, he moved to McLaughlin. He was elected as state's attorney, probate court judge for Corson County, and mayor of McLaughlin. He served as the publisher of the newspaper Mclaughlin Messenger beginning in 1938. He was editor of the State Bar Association Journal from 1938 through 1950.
Politics
Berry was elected to the South Dakota State Senate from 1938 through 1942, a total of two terms.
In 1950, Berry was elected as a Republican to the United States House of Representatives, and reelected nine consecutive times, retiring in 1971. Beginning in 1952, he also published the McIntosh News and Morristown World.
In 1966, journalist Drew Pearson reported that Berry was one of a group of Congressman who had received the "Statesman of the Republic" award from Liberty Lobby for his "right-wing activities".
After retiring from Congress, Berry he settled in Rapid City, South Dakota. He lived there until his death in 1999.