James H. Southgate

James H. Southgate, Oil on canvas, 24" x 29," Artist Unknown

James H. Southgate (1859-1916), businessman, served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Trinity College from 1897-1916.  Southgate was known as an excellent orator and public speaker, thus earning him a Vice Presidential nomination for the National party in 1896.  He was known as an  important "advocate for the education of women" and on Benefactor's Day 1919, it was announced that in his memory, funds would be raised to construct the James H. Southgate Memorial Building, a dormitory for women. The building, completed in 1921, was a "miniature coordinate college."  One can view this portrait in the small lobby just before entering the Reference Room (room 105 on the main floor).