Date of Birth: March 22, 1913
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Date of Death: January 8, 1983
Biography
Thomas Lawson McCall, commonly known as Tom McCall, was an influential American politician who served as the 30th Governor of Oregon from 1967 to 1975. Born in Massachusetts, McCall moved to Oregon during his youth and developed a profound connection with the state’s natural beauty. He is best remembered for his environmental advocacy, particularly his work to protect Oregon’s beaches and his efforts to control air and water pollution. McCall’s leadership extended beyond environmental issues; he was a proponent of land use planning and helped implement significant policies that shaped Oregon’s growth and development. After completing his education at the University of Oregon, McCall pursued a career in journalism, which later transitioned into politics. His tenure as governor was marked by a pragmatic approach, often crossing party lines to achieve meaningful reforms. His legacy lives on through various environmental regulations and public policies that continue to benefit Oregon and its residents.
5 Interesting Facts about Tom McCall
1. Tom McCall is well-known for the “Beach Bill” which ensured public access to all Oregon beaches.
2. He initiated the Oregon Bottle Bill, the first legislation in the U.S. to promote recycling by requiring a deposit on beverage containers.
3. McCall played a pivotal role in implementing statewide land-use planning to prevent urban sprawl and protect agricultural and forest land.
4. His famous statement “Come visit us again and again. This is a state of excitement. But for heaven’s sake, don’t move here to live,” reflected his desire to maintain Oregon’s quality of life.
5. McCall’s environmental advocacy earned him a posthumous induction into the Oregon Environmental Hall of Fame.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Tom McCall
1. “Heroes are not giant statues framed against a red sky. They are people who say: This is my community, and it’s my responsibility to make it better.”
2. “We want you to visit our state of excitement, but for heaven’s sake, don’t move here to live.”
3. “If pollution is the price of progress, then we will have no progress.”
4. “The interests of Oregon for today and in the future must be protected.”
5. “We cannot stand still. We must move forward and we must do it in a careful and intelligent manner.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Tom McCall’s highest net worth is not well-documented, given the era he lived in and the nature of his career, which was primarily in public service. However, it is known that his financial status was modest, reflective of his commitment to public duty over personal gain.
Children
Tom McCall had two children: 1. Thomas “Tad” McCall 2. Sam McCall
Relevant Links
1. [Oregon Encyclopedia: Tom McCall](https://oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/mccall_tom/
5. [PBS Oregon Experience: Tom McCall](https://www.pbs.org/video/oregon-experience-tom-mccall/