William Preston Johnston

Biography

William Preston Johnston, born in 1831, forged a reputation as a soldier, lawyer, and educator after serving as a Confederate officer and then returning to civilian life to practice law and promote Southern letters. He channeled his energies into university service, believing that scholarship and discipline could aid the region in healing.

As president of Tulane University he encouraged broader study of Southern history and literature, published biographies and essays, and shared the lessons of his life with readers across the nation; he now rests at Cave Hill Cemetery amid the city he served.