Preston Lea

1841–1916 (age 75)

Governor

Biography

Preston Lea guided Delaware with steady resolve as the state’s governor from 1905 to 1909, balancing the needs of Wilmington industry with those of rural communities while preserving fiscal discipline and careful governance.

Before taking office, he was a Wilmington businessman and civic leader who championed education, roads, and public parks, leaving a legacy of thoughtful stewardship that earned wide respect.