Beal, Junius E. (Junius Emery), 1860-1942

Ann Arbor, Michigan, businessman, publisher of Ann Arbor Courier, Republican politician, and regent of University of Michigan.

From the description of Junius Emery Beal papers, 1869-1946. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 82628269

From the description of Junius Emery Beal papers, 1882-1946. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 34421837

Junius E. Beal was born February 23, 1860 in Port Huron, Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1882, then assumed the editorship of the Ann Arbor Weekly Courier and the Daily Times which he had inherited from his foster father Rice A. Beal. He remained as editor until 1904. Beal was also instrumental in the development of the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti interurban in 1889, and was president of the firm until 1896. He also served as manager of the Ann Arbor Electric Light Co., 1894-1902. He was also president of the Port Huron Gas Co. during that same period.

Beal, in addition to business interests, was also civically involved. He served on the Ann Arbor Board of Education from 1884 to 1904; he filled one term (1905-1906) as state legislator in the Michigan House of Representatives; and from 1908 to 1919, he served on the Michigan Public Domain Commission where he helped further a state reforestation program.

Beal was most noteworthy in his work as regent of the University of Michigan. He served four 8-year terms from 1907 to 1939. Among his accomplishments on the board were his advocacy of a building program that saw the construction of the football stadium and Hill Auditorium. Beal was also involved in the selection of U-M presidents.

Beal died June 24, 1942.

From the guide to the Junius E. Beal Papers, 1869-1946, (Bentley Historical Library University of Michigan)