George W. McCrary

Biography

George W. McCrary (1835-1890) built a distinguished career as a lawyer and statesman, representing Iowa in Congress and eventually serving as Secretary of War under President Hayes, where he worked to professionalize the regular army and to uphold civil order during a time of national transition. His legal mind and steady leadership also guided boundary and land cases that demanded diligence and clarity.

Back home, he continued to champion civic causes and to mentor younger attorneys, earning the respect of colleagues and citizens alike; his remains lie at Oakland Cemetery, a testimony to the broad public trust he earned.