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Testimonial for Joseph W. Martin, Jr., Newton, MA, May 24, 1965
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Testimonial for Joseph W. Martin, Jr., Newton, MA, May 24, 1965
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The original documents are located in Box D18, folder "Testimonial for Joseph W. Martin,
Jr., Newton, MA, May 24, 1965" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and
Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box D18 of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Draft
5/21/65
Steve Hess
Testimonial for Joseph W. Martin, Jr.
Newton, Massachusetts, May 24, 1965
by Gerald Ford
Although this is a non-partisan dinner, I would like to say that I'm
particularly pleased to be here because I understand that the City of Newton
as casts the The largest leader number 7the of Republican oppressnt votes minory of any comunity in The House in Massachusetts. its n pleasure be m to
We don't see too many Republicans around the House of Representatives these days.
In fact, I'm beginning to think that the Democrats are practicing a form of
friendly such nmmel n
de facto segregation. However, I have a plan: We'll get the City of Newton to
start a "bus-in" on the Capitol. In this way - to coin a phrase - we shall
overcome!
While everyone knows that it was Nathan Hale who said, "I regret that I have
but one life to give for my country," tonight I would like to add a modern
cerollary to that famous statement. It is this: "The Republican Party regrets
that it has but one Joe Martin to give to our country!" all would apree That
more Joe Instructions would make America who greater.
Of course if we had two Martins, I an sure that we would have run one of
them in New York last November!
I feel a special kinship for our guest of honor. Joe Martin once said,
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
- 2 -
"The position of minority leader of the House of Representatives is the most
thankless job in Washington
I would not take ten times ten thousand dollars
to return to it. And now I'm the fellow whose trying to fill the giant shees
that Joe wore for so long, with such distinction, dedication and ability.
But Joe Martin and I have something else in common. We have both been avid
amateur athletes. I was once a fair football player at the University of Michigan
and he was once a very good semi-pro baseball player.
Many of you may not know that Joe has maintained his contacts with baseball
through the years. When the great Washington Senators pitcher Walter Johnson
ran for Congress, his friend Joe Martin wrote two campaign speeches for him --
one to give before labor groups, and the other to give before farmers. Unfortunately,
Johnson was a better pitcher than politician. He got the two speeches mixed up,
delivering the labor speech to farmers and vice versa. Needless to say, he
lost the election, which perhaps proves what Joe Martin learned a long time ago:
It's easier to be a great Washington Senator than a great member of the House
of Representatives!
The man we honer tonight has had the most remarkable record of public service
of any person currently active on the political scene. So, if he will forgive me,
I would like to turn these remarks into my version of "This Is Your Life."
-3-
Joseph W. Martin, Jr. was born on November 3, 1884, the day before Grover
Cleveland was elected President I for the first time. His father wanted to name
him Grover Cleveland Martin. But his mother, a staunch Republican, said, "Grover's
a dog's name."
This wife lady, who could obviously tell a future Republican Speaker of the
House when she saw one, was an Irish immigrant. She had little formal education,
but was a witty and delightful person.
His father was a hard-working North Attlebore blacksmith whose earnings
were never more than $18 a week.
Since the family was poor, young Joe started to work outside of school hours
at the age of six. One of his jobs was to brush the flies off the herses while his
father shed them. Another job was as a delivery boy for the North Attleboro
Evening Chronicle. (Now probably every newsboy dreams of one day becoming the
owner of the paper. But Joe Martin was one young man who was to make this dream
come true.)
He got his political start by marching in a torchlight parade for William
McKinley in 1896. At the time, a family friend told his father, "Don't let that
boy go into politics he's too good a boy!"
Joe, who was otherwise a fellow of extremely good sense, did not listen to
this sound advise. Travelling by horse and buggy, he campaigned for the
QERALD FORD LIBRARY
- 4 -
NAH
Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1911, and was elected age twenty-seven.
Joe later served three tarms in your state sente
After three terms in the House, he was/elected to the State Senate. It was
1914, and Calvin Coolidge was then president of that chamber. This was the be-
IN
ginning of a long friendship between the two future GOP leaders. (Coolidge, by
the way, was the only man to always call our guest of honor by his full Christian
name. He pronounced it J9-seff.) Jo-seff Martin served an unprecedented three
terms in the Massachusetts Senate.
In 1916 he began attending Republican Presidential Conventions. This would
become a habit of more than 50 years duratiom. And today he holds the record --
unsurpassed in either party of having been five times the permanent chairman
of national conventions.
His gentle humor has broken many tense moments at conventions, as all of us
recall who were at San Francisco in 1956 when a Nebaska delegate tried to nominate
"Joe Smith" for Vice President.
But not all moments at national conventions are so supercharged. At his
first convention, Joe woke up in the middle of the night to find that a poker game
was in progress in his hotel room. And to his astenishment, he discovered that
GERALD
the dealer was none other than the legendary Diamond Jim Brady!
his held that nice as your
By 1924 Joe was running for Congress The era of the horse and Buggy was over,
representative wer Amel.
- 5 -
?
and he now impaigned in a brand new Monroe automobile. So Joe Mar bin was sent
by his constituents to the quaint and sheepy oity of Washington. D.C.
These were the days of great orators in the House of Representatives. However,
?
not all Congressman could keep from wallowing in cliches. Joe remembers that one
of the first "great" speeches he heard began: "I say to you, Mr. Speaker, that
politics makes strange bedfellows. Especially since women got into tem."
Joe was put on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Of course he really
wanted to be on the Post Office Committee! (But not all freshman legislators could
Interestring
be that lucky.) At that time the Foreign Affairs Committee spent a full week
1
debating such earth-shaking questions as whether or not to authorize $20,000 for
an international poultry show in Tulsa.
The new Congressman began to establish his lifetime reputation as a fighter
for New England. But he also learned the pitfalls of his office. After getting
a new Post Office for Fall River, it turned out that the building contract went
to a firm in St. Louis! The building was constructed not with Fall River granite,
but with Indiana limestone! And to top it all off, the job of night watchman was
given to the father of Joe's Democratic opponent!
Yet despite such temporary setbacks, he kept getting reelected to Congress.
A dairyman from Taunton once said, "I vote the straight Democratic tikket, except
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
- 6 -
for Congressman Martin. I always vote for him because my father told me tom,
fifteen years ago." Indeed, Joe Martin had become a vital institution in his
district.
Much deserved recognition came often to Joe Martin. 1936 -- he was chosen
Republican National Committeeman from Massachusetts. 1938 -- he was elecated
Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. 1939 --- he became
the Republican Leader of the House. 1940 --- he was considered a dark horse candidate
for the Presidency, and received forty-four votes at the convention. Although he
never sought the office, this is what the great Kansas editor, William Allen White,
said of him: "He will make.. if the dice roll right, a liberty-loving president."
When Wendell Willkie was made the 1940 nominee, he begged Joe to become Chair-
man of the Republican National Committee. Putting devotien to Party above personal
wishes, as usual, Joe accepted the post. As Chairman he had the rare distinction
of seeing the Committee evicted from its building when it was purchased by
that hasn't been too friendly to most Republicans
all organizations -- GIO! However, although he was far from a wealthy man,
Joe took over anether building and obligated t himself as a personal liability for
the $33,000 lease. (Is there any wonder why Republicans love Joe Martin?)
The greatest tribute came to Joe Martin in 1947 when he was first elected
GERALD LIBRURY
Speaker of the House.
F
man who has always had little taste for public speaking,
- 7 -
it slightl fabby that he now be called Specker If
Next
to the President, as most students of government know, the Speaker is the mest
powerful elective official in the United States.
But what most people don't know is that besides presiding over the House, the
Speaker has a great many other duties --- such as supervising a Capitol bank with
assets of four million dollars. The Spekker also has responsibility for four
barbershops and a beauty parlor. But Joe, as a confirmed bacheler, told a
colleague, "I think I'll let you run the beauty parlor. You are more experienced
with the women than I am."
This questien of experience with the opposite sex was to change rapidly. For
under the new law of Presidential succession, Speaker Martin E was first in line
if anything happened to President Truman. (There was no Vice President when Truman
succeeded FDR, you will recall.) Of course the possibility of a bacheler President
was a great temptation to the single ladies of this country. Joe Martin was deluged
with effers of marriage! (One proposal that particularly amused him came from a
woman spiritualist in Clarksburg, West Virginia, who wrote that the deceased Wendell
Willkie had told her to marry Joe!)
Here is another interesting situation that resulted from the line of
?
Presidential succession, It is pessible to argue that Joe Martin was actually
President of the United States for a Iew ainutes on January 20, 1953. At noon
- 8 -
of that date the terms of President Truman and Vice President Barkley expired by
law. But the inaugeration or Dwight Eisennewer and Richard Nixon did not take
blace until e few minutes after twelve. so, I believe, our history books should
record the short but successful administration of President Joseph W. Martin, Inf
There are a great many reasons for Joe Martin's success. But I would like
to mention just two of them.
The first is his adherence to the old New England principle of thrift. Once
Joe Martin invited a President of the United States to his office for lunch. He
called a caterer for some box lunches and was told that they would cost $2 apiece.
Well, this seemed a bit high to Joe, so he shopped around until he found a man
who would provide a bex lunch fo $1.19. I am sure that this makes Joe the only
man in American history to entertain a President at such a bargain price! And,
of course, Joe has always applied this same principle to the taxpayer's dollar.
Second, Jee Martin is a very likeable person. Even those who are his politică
oppenents have come to have a special place in their hearts for him. For example,
there is quite a collection of GOP elephants in Joe's office, and one of the most
handsome was given to him by Harry Truman. The story behind this is that someone
sent it to the White House, and President Truman told his secretary, "Take this
up to Joe Martin. I don't want any damned dancing elephants around here!"
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
- 9 -
have tried to make this e light hearted biography of Jee Martin, But. in
conclusion, I would like to be more serious for a few moments
Joe has served our nation with great skill. He has been a major force in
some of the most crucial decisions of our times. To cite just one instance:
During World War II General Marshall came to him and asked for $1.6 billion to
manufacture an atomic bomb. Jée's job would be to try to get this money from
Congress largely on faith -- for the greatest secrecy had to be maintained. Thus,
to a large extent, Joe Martin was responsible for putting through a program that
eventually shortened the war and saved millions of American lives.
But speaking to you, in a sense, as a representative of Joe Martin's party,
I would also like to say a few words about "Joe Martin, Republican."
When he was first nominated for House leader in 1939, it was said of him:
"We are doing more than electing a floor leader. We are choosing a symbol of the
Republican Party... "
And Joe Martin has been a magnificent symbol of integrity, dedication, honor
and patriotism.
Threugh the darkest days of Republican Party history, he has played one of the
most significant roles in keeping the two-party system alive and functioning.
GERALD LIBRARY
- 10 - -
The dedication of Joe Martin's autobiography I reads: "To the millions of
Republicans -- and to the many Demourats and Independents as well -- who fought
with me through the years to maintain the two-party system of government in the
United States."
This has been Jee Martin's greatest fight. And all Americans, regardless
of party, are very much in his debt and owe him a lasting vote of thanks.
From all of us, Joe Martin, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
- 30 -
Testimenial for Joseph W. Martin, Jr.
Newton, Massachusetts, May 24, 1965
by Gerald R. Ford
Although this is a non-partisan dinner, I would like to say that I'm
particularly pleased to be here because I understand that the City of Newton
casts the largest number of Republican votes of any community in Massachusetts.
As the leader of the oppressed minerity in the House, it's a pleasure to be
in such a friendly environment.
While everyone knows that it was Methan Hale who said, "I regret that I
have but one life to give for my country," tonight I would like to add a
modern corollery to that famous statement. It is this: "The Republican Party
gegrets that it has but one Joe Martin to give to our country!" All would
agree that more Joe Martins would make America even greater.
GERALD
-2-
I feel a special kinship for our guest of honor. Joe Martin once said,
"The position of minority leader of the House of Representatives is the most
thankless job in Washington...I would not take ten times ten thousand dollars
to return to it." And now I'm the fellow who's trying to fill the giant shoes
that Joe wore for so long, with such distinction, dedication and ability.
But Joe Martin and I have something else in common. We have both been
avid amsteur athletes. I was once a fair football player at the University of
Michigan, and he was once a very good semi-pro baseball player.
Many of you may not know that Joe has maintained has contacts with baseball
through the years. When the great Washington Senators' pitcher, Walter Johnson,
ran for Congress, his friend Joe Martin wrote two campaign speeches for him --
one to give before labor groups, and the other to give before farmers.
Unfortunately, Johnson was a better pitcher than politician. He got the two
speeches mixed up, delivering the labor speech to fermers and vice versa.
BERALD FORD LIBRARY
-3-
Needless to say, he lost the election, which perhaps proves what Jee Martin
learned a long time ago: It's easier to be a great Washington Senator then
a member of the House of Representatives!
The man we honor tonight has had the most remarkable record of public
service of any person currently active on the political scene. so, if he
will forgive me, I would like to turn these remarks into my version of
"This Is Your Life."
Joseph W. Martin, Jr., was born on November 3, 1884, the day before
Grover Cleveland was elected President for the first time. His father
wanted to name him Grover Cleveland Martin. But his mother, a staunch
Republican, said, "Grover's a dog's name."
His father was a hard-vorking North Attleboro blacksmith whose earnings
were never more than $18 a week.
Since the family was poor, young Joe started to work outside of school
hours at the age of six. One of his jobs was to brush the flies off the
GERALD
-41
horses while his father shod them. Another job was as a delivery boy for
the North Attleboro Evening Chronicle. (Now probably every newsboy dreams
of one day becoming the owner of the paper. But Joe Martin was one young
man who was to make this dream come true.)
He got his political start by marching in a torchlight parade for
William McKinley in 1896. At the time, a family friend told his father,
"Don't let that boy go into politics .. he's too good a boy!"
Joe, who was otherwise a fellow of extremely good sense, did not
listen to this sound advice. Traveling by horse and buggy, he campaigned
for the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1911, and was elected --
age twenty-seven.
In 1916 he began attending Republican Presidential Conventions. This
would become a habit of more than 50 years' duration. And teday he holds
the record -- unsurpassed in either party -- of having been five times the
permanent chairman of national conventions.
QERALD R.FORD BRARD
-5-
His gentle humor has broken many tense moments at conventions, as
all of us recall who were at San Francisco in 1956 when a Nebraska delegate
tried to nominate "Joe Smith" for Vice President.
But not all moments at national conventions are so supercharged. At
his first convention, Joe woke up in the middle of the night to find that
a poker game was in progress in his hotel room. And to his astonishment,
he discovered that the dealer was none other than the legendary Diamond
Jim Brady!
By 1924 Jee was running for Congress, and he's held that office as
your representative ever since.
Mose were the days of great crators in the House of Representatives.
However, not all Congressmen could keep from wallowing in cliches. Joe
remembers that one of the first "grest" speeches he heard began: "I say
to you, Mr. Speaker, that politics makes strange bedfellows. Especially
since woman got into 'em."
GERALD
-6-
Joe was put on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. of course, he
really wanted to be on the Post Office Committee! (But not all freshman
legislators could be that lucky.) Interestingly, at that time the Foreign
Affairs Committee spent a full week debating such earth-shaking questions
as to whether or not to authorise $20,000 for an international poultry show
in Tulsa.
The new Congressman began to establish his lifetime reputation as a
fighter for New England. But he also learned the pitfalls of his office.
After getting a new Post Office for Fall River, it turned out that the building
contract went to a firm in St. Louis! The building was constructed not with
Fall River granite, but with Indiana limestone! And to top it all off, the
job of night watchman was given to the father of Joe's Democratic opponent!
Yet, despite such temporary setbacks, he kept getting re-elected to
Congress. A dairyman from Taunton once said, "I vote the straight Democratic
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
-7-
ticket, except for Congressman Martin. I always vote for him because my
father told me to, fifteen years ago." Indeed, Joe Martin had become a
vital institution in his district.
Much deserved recognition came often to Joe Martin. 1936 -- he was
chosen Republican National Committeeman from Massachusetts. 1938 -- ) he was
elected Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. 1939 --
he became the Republican Leader of the House. 1940 -- he was considered
a dark horse candidate for the Presidency, and received forty-four votes at
the convention. Although he never sought the office, this is what the great
Kansas editor, William Allen White, said of him: "He will make.....if the
dice roll right, a liberty-loving President."
When Wendell Willkie was made the 1940 nominee, he begged Joe to become
Chairman of the Republican National Committee. Putting devotion to Party
above personal wishes, as usual, Joe accepted the post. As Chairman he had
the rare distinction of seeing the Committee evicted from its building when
GERALD LIBRARY
-8-
it was purchased by an organization that hasn't been too friendly to most
Republicans. However, although he was far from a wealthy man, Joe took
over another building and obligated himself as a personal liability for
the $33,000 lease. (Is there any wonder why Republicans love Joe Martin?)
The greatest tribute came to Joe Martin in 1947 when he was first elected
Speaker of the House. Next to the President, as most students of government
know, the Speaker is the most powerful elective official in the United States.
But what most people don't know is that besides presiding over the House,
the Speaker has a great many other duties -- such as supervising a Capitol
bank with assets of four million dollars. The Speaker also has responsibility
for four barbershops and a beauty pareor. But Joe, as a confirmed bachelor,
told a colleague, "I think I'll let you run the beauty parlor. You are more
experienced with the women than I am."
This question of experience with the opposite sex was to change rágidly.
For under the new law of Presidential succession, Specker Martin was first in
FORD
line if anything happened to President Truman. (There was no Vice President
GERAL
LIBRARY
-9-
When Truman succeeded FDR, you will recall.) Of course, the possibility
of a bachelor President was a great temptation to the single ladies of
this country. Joe Martin was deluged with offers of marriage! (One proposal
that particularly amused him came from a woman spiritualist in Clarksburg,
West Virginia, who wrote that the deceased Wandell Willkie had told her to
marry Joe!)
There are a great many reasons for Joe Martin's success. But I would
like to mention just two of them.
The first is his adherence to the old New England principle of thrift.
Once Joe Martin invited a President of the United States to his office for
lunch. He called a caterer for some box lunches and was told that they
would cost $2 spiece. Well, this seemed a bit high to Joe, so he shopped
around until he found a man who would provide a box lunch for $1.19. I am
sure that this makes Joe the only man in American history to entertain a
President at such a bargain price! And, of course, Joe has always applied
this same principle to the taxpayer's dollar.
BERALD R.FORD LIBRARY
-10-
Second, Joe Martin is a very likemble person. Even those who are
his political opponents have come to have a special place in their hearts
for him. For example, there is quite a collection of GOP elephants in Joe's
office, and one of the most handsome was given to him by Harry Truman. The
story behind this is that someone sent it to the White House, and President
Truman told his secretary, "Take this up to Joe Martin. I don't want any
damned dancing elephants around here!"
Joe has served our nation with great skill. He has been a major force
in some of the most crucial decisions of our times. To cite just one instance:
During World War II General Marshall came to him and asked for $1.6 billion
to manufacture an atomic bomb. Joe's job would be to try to get this money
from Congress largely on faith -- for the greatest secrecy had to be maintained.
Thus, to a large extent, Jee Martin was responsible for putting through a
program that eventually shortened the war and saved millions of American lives.
GERALD
-11-
But speaking to you, in a sense, as a representative of Joe Martin's
Party, I would also like to say 4 few words about "Jee Martin -- Republican."
When he was first nominated for House leader in 1939, it was said of him:
"We are doing more than electing a floor leader. We are choesing a symbol
of the Republican Party..."
And Joe Martin has been & magnificent symbol of integrity, dedication,
honor and patriotism.
Through the darkest days of Republican Party history, he has played
one of the most significant roles in keeping the two-party system alive and
functioning.
The dedication of Joe Martin's autobiography reads: "To the millions
of Republicans -- and to the many Democrats and Independents as well -- who
fought with me through the years to maintain the two-party system of government
in the United States."
This has been Joe Martin's greatest fight. And all Americans, regardless
GERALD
-12-
of Party, are very much in his debt, and owe him a lasting vote of thanks.
the
From all of us, Joe Martin, thank you from bottom of our hearts.
Man 2 Year
Testimonial for Joseph W. Martin, Jr.
Newton, Massachusetts, May 24, 1965
by Gerald R. Ford
Sary
Although this is a non-partisan dinner, I would like to say that I'm
particularly pleased to be here because I understand that the City of Newton
casts the largest number of Republican votes of any community in Massachusetts.
H
11
As the leader of the oppressed minority in the House, it's a pleasure to be
in such a friendly environment where there so n Republican mayor, n
member of G.O.P. alderman + where Ed Brink now twis
While everyone knows that it was Nathan Hale who said, "I regret that I
have but one life to give for my country," tonight I would like to add a
modern corollary to that famous statement. It is this: "The Republican Party
vegrets that it has but one Joe Martin to give to our country!" All would
agree that more Joe Martins would make America even greater.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
-2-
I feel a special kinship for our guest of honor. Joe Martin once said,
"The position of minority leader of the House of Representatives is the most
thankless job in Washington I would not take ten times ten thousand dollars
to return to it." And now I'm the fellow who's trying to fill the giant shoes
that Joe wore for so long, with such distinction, dedication and ability. at this
point 2 would like to Thank Joe for his help of his encourement before q after Januy 4R
But Joe Martin and I have something else in common. We have both been
avid amateur athletes. I was once a fair football player at the University of
Michigan, and he was once a very good semi-pro baseball player. In all his
years in politics Many of Joe you has may been not know a good that Joe lutter has maintained of a fine fullow hás contacts for good with government baseball
through the years. When the great Washington Senators' pitcher, Walter Johnson,
ran for Congress, his friend Joe Martin wrote two campaign speeches for him --
one to give before labor groups, and the other to give before farmers.
Unfortunately, Johnson was a better pitcher than politician. He got the two
speeches mixed up, delivering the labor speech to farmers and vice versa.
GERALD FORD VIBRARY
-3-
Needless to say, he lost the election, which perhaps proves what Joe Martin
learned a long time ago:
It's easier to be a great Washington Senator than
a member of the House of Representatives!
The man we honor tonight has had the most remarkable record of public
service of any person currently active on the political scene. So, if he
will forgive me, I would like to turn these remarks into my version of
"This Is Your Life."
Joseph W. Martin, Jr., was born on November 3, 1884, the day before
Grover Cleveland was elected President for the first time. His father
wanted to name him Grover Cleveland Martin. But his mother, a staunch
Republican, said, "Grover's a dog's name." so great page 2 american
history have been written ly Joe not Nover artin ,
His father was a hard-working North Attleboro blacksmith whose earnings
were never more than $18 a week.
But Joes partnts prived something
we often Since forget the family - anothering was poor, young is Joe ? the started soul to work not outside fthe of with. school
hours at the age of six. One of his jobs was to brush the flies off the
GERALD
-4-
horses while his father shod them. Another job was as a delivery boy for
the North Attleboro Evening Chronicle. (Now probably every newsboy dreams
of one day becoming the owner of the paper. But Joe Martin was one young
man who was to make this dream come true.)
He got his political start by marching in a torchlight parade for
William McKinley in 1896. At the time, a family friend told his father,
Plitics of
"Don't let that boy go into politics -- he's too good a boy!"
preticians put
Joe, who was otherwise a fellow of extremely good sense, did not health
of
hfr.
listen to this sound advice. Traveling by horse and buggy, he campaigned
for the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1911, and was elected --
age twenty-seven.
In 1916 he began attending Republican Presidential Conventions. This
would become a habit of more than 50 years' duration. And today he holds
the record -- unsurpassed in either party -- of having been five times the
permanent chairman of national conventions.
BERALD FORD VIBRARY
-5-
His gentle humor has broken many tense moments at conventions, as
all of us recall who were at San Francisco in 1956 when a Nebraska delegate
tried to nominate "Joe Smith" for Vice President.
But not all moments at national conventions are so supercharged. At
his first convention, Joe woke up in the middle of the night to find that
a poker game was in progress in his hotel room. And to his astonishment,
he discovered that the dealer was none other than the legendary Diamond
Jim Brady!
By 1924 Joe was running for Congress, and he's held that office as
your representative ever since.
Those were the days of great orators in the House of Representatives.
However, not all Congressmen could keep from wallowing in cliches. Joe
remembers that one of the first "great" speeches he heard began: "I say
to you, Mr. Speaker, that politics makes strange bedfellows. Especially
since women got into 'em."
GERALD FORD MBRARA
-6-
Joe was put on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Of course, he
really wanted to be on the Post Office Committee! (But not all freshman
legislators could be that lucky.) Interestingly, at that time the Foreign
Affairs Committee spent a full week debating such earth-shaking questions
as to whether or not to authorize $20,000 for an international poultry show
in Tulsa.
The new Congressman began to establish his lifetime reputation as a
fighter for New England. But he also learned the pitfalls of his office.
After getting a new Post Office for Fall River, it turned out that the building
contract went to a firm in St. Louis! The building was constructed not with
Fall River granite, but with Indiana limestone! And to top it all off, the
job of night watchman was given to the father of Joe's Democratic opponent!
Yet, despite such temporary setbacks, he kept getting re-elected to
Congress. A dairyman from Taunton once said, "I vote the straight Democratic
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
-7-
ticket, except for Congressman Martin. I always vote for him because my
father told me to, fifteen years ago." Indeed, Joe Martin had become a
vital institution in his district.
Much deserved recognition came often to Joe Martin. 1936 -- he was
chosen Republican National Committeeman from Massachusetts. 1938 -- he was
elected Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. 1939 --
he became the Republican Leader of the House. 1940 -- he was considered
a dark horse candidate for the Presidency, and received forty-four votes at
the convention. Although he never sought the office, this is what the great
Kansas editor, William Allen White, said of him: "He will make.....if the
dice roll right, a liberty-loving President."
When Wendell Willkie was made the 1940 nominee, he begged Joe to become
Chairman of the Republican National Committee. Putting devotion to Party
above personal wishes, as usual, Joe accepted the post. As Chairman he had
the rare distinction of seeing the Committee evicted from its building when
GERALD
-8-
it was purchased by an organization that hasn't been too friendly to most
Republicans. However, although he was far from a wealthy man, Joe took
over another building and obligated himself as a personal liability for
the $33,000 lease. (Is there any wonder why Republicans love Joe Martin?)
The greatest tribute came to Joe Martin in 1947 when he was first elected
Speaker of the House. Next to the President, as most students of government
know, the Speaker is the most powerful elective official in the United States.
Joe artm that office on two occasions with distinction & Imor.
But what most people don't know is that besides presiding over the House,
the Speaker has a great many other duties -- such as supervising a Capitol
bank with assets of four million dollars. The Speaker also has responsibility
for four barbershops and a beauty parlor. But Joe, as a confirmed bachelor,
told a colleague, "I think I'll let you run the beauty parlor. You are more
experienced with the women than I am."
This question of experience with the opposite sex was to change rapidly.
For under the new law of Presidential succession, Speaker Martin was first in
line if anything happened to President Truman. (There was no Vice President
GERALD
LIBRARY
-9-
when Truman succeeded FDR, you will recall.) Of course, the possibility
of a bachelor President was a great temptation to the single ladies of
this country. Joe Martin was deluged with offers of marriage! (One proposal
that particularly amused him came from a woman spiritualist in Clarksburg,
West Virginia, who wrote that the deceased Wendell Willkie had told her to
marry Joe!) The record shows for never successed
There are a great many reasons for Joe Martin's success. But I would
like to mention just two of them.
The first is his adherence to the old New England principle of thrift.
Once Joe Martin invited a President of the United States to his office for
lunch. He called a caterer for some box lunches and was told that they
would cost $2 apiece. Well, this seemed a bit high to Joe, so he shopped
around until he found a man who would provide a box lunch for $1.19. I am
sure that this makes Joe the only man in American history to entertain a
President at such a bargain price! And, of course, Joe has always applied
this same principle to the taxpayer's dollar.
BERALD FORD VIBRARY
-10-
Second, Joe Martin is a very likeable person. Even those who are
his political opponents have come to have a special place in their hearts
for him. For example, there is quite a collection of GOP elephants in Joe's
office, and one of the most handsome was given to him by Harry Truman. The
story behind this is that someone sent it to the White House, and President
Truman told his secretary, "Take this up to Joe Martin. I don't want any
damned dancing elephants around here!"
Joe has served our nation with great skill. He has been a major force
in some of the most crucial decisions of our times. To cite just one instance:
During World War II General Marshall came to him and asked for $1.6 billion
to manufacture an atomic bomb. Joe's job would be to try to get this money
from Congress largely on faith -- for the greatest secrecy had to be maintained.
Thus, to a large extent, Joe Martin was responsible for putting through a
program that eventually shortened the war and saved millions of American lives.
ability I master new problems, new challenges
One 3 fors greatest assits is his unique
as they Come to our society. Space
GERALD
-11-
But speaking to you, in a sense, as a representative of Joe Martin's
Party, I would also like to say a few words about "Joe Martin -- Republican."
When he was first nominated for House leader in 1939, it was said of him:
"We are doing more than electing a floor leader. We are choosing a symbol
of the Republican Party "
And Joe Martin has been a magnificent symbol of integrity, dedication,
honor and patriotism.
Through the darkest days of Republican Party history, he has played
one of the most significant roles in keeping the two-party system alive and
functioning.
The dedication of Joe Martin's autobiography reads: "To the millions
of Republicans -- and to the many Democrats and Independents as well -- who
fought with me through the years to maintain the two-party system of government
in the United States."
This has been Joe Martin's greatest fight. And all Americans, regardless
& LIBRARY GERALD
-12-
of Party, are very much in his debt, and owe him a lasting vote of thanks.
From all of us, Joe Martin, thank you from/bottom the of our hearts.
We are proud & honored that you
have been selected as man of the year,
you deserve This high hmm
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
TESTIMONIAL for JOSEPH W. MARTIN, JR.
Newton, Massachusetts May 24, 1965
by Gerald R. Ford
Although this is a non-partisan dinner, I would like to say that I'm parti-
cularly pleased to be here because I understand that the City of Newton casts the
largest number of Republican votes of any community in Massachusetts. As the
leader of the oppressed minority in the House, it's a pleasure to be in such a
friendly environment.
While everyone knows that it was Nathan Hale who said, "I regret that I have
but one life to give for my country," tonight I would like to add a modern corollary
to that famous statement. It is this: "The Republican Party regrets that it has
but one Joe Martin to give to our country!" All would agree that more Joe Martins
would make America even greater.
I feel a special kinship for our guest of honor. Joe Martin once said,
"The position of minority leader of the House of Representatives is the most
thankless job in Washington I would not take ten times ten thousand dollars to
return to it." And now I'm the fellow who's trying to fill the giant shoes that
Joe wore for so long, with such distinction, dedication and ability.
But Joe Martin and I have something else in common. We have both been avid
amateur athletes. I was once a fair football player at the University of Michigan,
and he was once a very good semi-pro baseball player.
Many of you may not know that Joe has maintained his contacts with baseball
through the years. When the great Washington Senators' pitcher, Walter Johnson,
ran for Congress, his friend Joe Martin wrote two campaign speeches for him--
one to give before labor groups, and the other to give before farmers. Unfortunately
Johnson was a bettempitcher than politician. He gct the two speeches mixed up,
delivering the labor speech to farmers and vice versa. Needless to say, he lost
the election, which perhaps proves what Joe Martin learned a long time ago: It's
easier to be a great Washington Senator than a member of the House of Representatives!
The man we honor tonight has had the most remarkable record of public service
of any person currently active on the political scene. So, if he will forgive me,
I would like to turn these ramarks into my version of "This Is Your Life."
Joseph W. Martin, Jr., was born on November 3, 1884, the day before Grover
Cleveland was elected President for the first time. His father wanted to name him
Grover Cleveland Martin. But hismother, a staunch Republican, said, "Grover's a
dog's name."
His father was a hard-working North Attleboro blacksmith whose earnings
were never more than $18 a week.
-2-
Since the family was poor, young Joe started to work outside of school hours
at the age of six. One of his jobs was to brush the flies off the horses while his
father shod them. Another job was as a delivery boy for the North Attleboro
EVENING CHRONICLE. (Now probably every newsboy dreams of one day becoming the owner
of the paper. But Joe Martin was one young man who was to make this dream come true.)
He got his political start by marching in a torchlight parade for William
McKinley in 1896. At the time, a family friend told his father, "Don't let that boy
go into politics -- he's too good a boy!"
Joe, who was otherwise a fellow of extremely good sense, did not listen to
this sound advice. Traveling by horse and buggy, he campaigned for the Massachusetts
House of Representatives in 1911, and was elected -- age twenty-seven.
In 1916 he began attending Republican Presidential Conventions. This would
become a habit of more than 50 years' duration. And today he holds the record --
unsurpassed in either party -- of having been five times the permanent chairman of
national conventions.
His gentle humor has broken many tense moments at conventions, as all of us
recall who were at San Francisco in 1956 when a Nebraska delegate tried to nominate
"Joe Smith" for Vice President.
But not all moments at national conventions are so supercharged. At his
first convention, Joe woke up in the middle of the night to find that a poker game
was in progress in his hotel room. And to his astonishment, he discovered that the
dealer was none other than the legendary Diamond Jim Brady!
By 1924 Joe was running for Congress, and he's held that office as your
representative ever since.
Those were the days of great orators in the House of Representatives. However,
not all Congressmen could keep from wallowing in cliches. Joe remembers that one
of the first "great" speeches he heard began: "I say to you, Mr. Speaker, that
politics makes strange bedfellows. Especially since women got into 'em."
Joe was put on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Of course, he really
wanted to be on the Post Office Committee! (But not all freshmen legislators could
be that lucky.) Interestingly, at that time the Foreign Affairs Committee spent a
full week debating such earth-shaking questions as to whether or not to authorize
$20,000 for an international poultry show in Tulsa.
The new Congressman began to establish his lifetime reputation as a fighter
for New England. But he also learned the pitfalls of his office. After getting a
new Post Office for Fall River, it turned out that the building contract went to a
firm in St. Louis! The building was constructed not with Fall River granite, but with
Indiana limestone! And to top it all off, the job of night watchman was given to
-3-
the father of Joe's Democratic opponent!
Yet, despite such temporary setbacks, he kept getting re-elected to Congress.
A dairyman from Taunton once said, "I vote the straight Democratic ticket, except
for Congressman Martin. I always vote for him because my father told me to,
fifteen years ago." Indeed, Joe Martin had become a vital institution in his
district.
Much deserved recognition came often to Joe Martin. 1936 -- he was chosen
Republican National Committeeman from Massachusetts. 1938 -- he was elected
Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. 1939 -- he became
the Republican Leader of the House. 1940 -- he was considered a dark horse candi-
date for the Presidency, and received forty-four votes at the convention. Although
he never sought the office, this is what the great Kansas editor, William Allen
White, said of him: "He will make if the dice roll right, a liberty-loving
President.
"
When Wendell Willkie was made the 1940 nominee, he begged Joe to become
Chairman of the Republican National Committee. Putting devotion to Party above
personal wishes, as usual, Joe accepted the post. As Chairman he had the rare
distinction of seeing the Committee evicted from its building when it was purchased
by an organization that hasn't been too friendly to most Republicans. However,
although he was far from a wealthy man, Joe took over another building and obligated
himself as a personal liability for the $33,000 lease. (Is there any wonder why
Republicans love Joe Martin?)
The greatest tribute came to Joe Martin in 1947 when he was first elected
Speaker of the House. Next to the President, as most students of government know,
the Speaker is the most powerful elective official in the United States.
But what most people don't know is that besides presiding over the House, the
Speaker has a great many other duties -- such as supervising a Capitol bank with
assets of four million dollars. The Speaker also has responsibility for four barber-
shops and a beauty parlor. But Joe, as a confirmed bachelor, told a colleague, "I
think I'll let you run the beauty parlor. You are more experienced with the women
than I am."
This question of experience with the opposite sex was to change rapidly. For
under the new law of Presidential succession, Speaker Martin was first in line if
anything happened to President Truman. (There was no Vice President when Truman
succeeded FDR, you will recall.) Of course, the possibility of a bachelor President
was a great temptation to the single ladies of this country. Joe Martin was deluged
with offers of marriage! (One proposal that particularly amused him came from a
woman spiritualist in Clarksburg, West Virginia, who wrote that the deceased Wendell
-4-
Willkie had told her to marry Joe!)
There are a great many reasons for Joe Martin's success. But I would like
to mention just two of them.
The first is his adherence to the old New England principle of thrift. Once
Joe Martin invited a President of the United States to his office for lunch. He
called a caterer for some box lunches and was told that they would cost $2 apiece.
Well, this seemed a bit high to Joe, so he shopped around until he found a man who
would provide a box lunch for $1.19. I am sure that this makes Joe the only man in
American history to entertain a President at such a bargain price! And, of course,
Joe has always applied this same principle to the taxpayer's dollar.
Second, Joe Martin is a very likeable person. Even those who are his political
opponents have come to have a special place in their hearts for him. For example,
there is quite a collection of GOP elephants in Joe's office, and one of the most
handsome was given to him by Harry Truman. The story behind this is that someone
sent it to the White House, and Preisdent Truman told his secretary, "Take this up
to Joe Martin. I don't want any damned dancing elephants around here!"
Joe has served our nation with great skill. He has been a major force in
some of the most crucial decisions of our times. To cite just one instance:
During World War II General Marshall came to him and asked for $1.6 billion to
manufacturean atomic bomb. Joe's job would be to try to get this money from Congress
largely on faith for the greatest secrecy had to be maintained. Thus, to a large
extent, Joe Martin was responsible for putting through a program that eventually
shortened the war and saved millions of American lives.
But speaking to you, in a sense, as a representative of Joe Martin's Party,
I would also like to say a few words about "Joe Martin Republican."
When he was first nominated for House leader in 1939, it was said of him:
"We are doing more than electing a floor leader. We are choosing a symbol of the
Republican Party "
And Joe Martin has been a magnificent symbol of integrity, dedication, honor
and patriotism.
Through the darkest days of Republican Party history, he has played one of
the most significant roles in keeping the two-party system alive and functioning.
The dedication of Joe Martin's autobiography reads: "To the millions of
Republicans and to the many Democrats and Independents as well who fought with
me through the years to maintain the twe-party system of government in the United
States."
This has been Joe Martin's greatest fight. And all Americans, regardless of
Party, are very much in his debt, and owe him a lasting vote of thanks.
the
From all of us, Joe Martin, thank you from/bottom of our hearts.
TESTIMONIAL for JOSEPH W. MARTIN, JR.
Newton, Massachusetts May 24, 1965
by Gerald R. Ford
Although this is a non-partisan dinner, I would like to say that I'm parti-
cularly pleased to be here because I understand that the City of Newton casts the
largest number of Republican votes of any community in Massachusetts. As the
leader of the oppressed minority in the House, it's a pleasure to be in such a
friendly environment.
While everyone knows that it was Nathan Hale who said, "I regret that I have
but one life to give for my country," tonight I would like to add a modern corollary
to that famous statement. It is this: "The Republican Party regrets that it has
but one Joe Martin to give to our country!" All would agree that more Joe Martins
would make America even greater.
I feel a special kinship for our guest of hunor. Joe Martin once said,
"The position of minority leader of the House of Representatives is the most
thankless job in Washington I would ot take ten times ten thousand dollars to
return to it." And now I'm the fellow who's trying to fill the giant shoes that
Joe wore for so long, with such distinction, dedication and ability.
But Joe Martin and I have something else in common. We have both been avid
amateur athletes. I was once a fair football player at the University of Michigan,
and he was once a very good semi-pro baseball player.
Many of you may not know that Joe has maintained his contacts with baseball
through the years. When the great Washington Senators' pitcher, Walter Johnson,
ran for Congress, his friend Joe Martin sote two campaign speeches for him--
one to give before labor groups, and the other to give before farmers. Unfortunately
Johnson was a betterpitcher than politician. He got the two speeches mixed up,
delivering the labor speech to farmers and vice versa. Needless to say, he lost
the election, which perhaps proves what Joe Martin learned a long time ago: It's
easier to be a great Washington Senator than a member of the House of Representatives!
The man we honor tonight has had the most remarkable record of public service
of any person currently active on the political scene. So, if he will forgive me,
I would like to turn these remarks into my version of "This Is Your Life."
Joseph W. Martin, Jr., was born on November 3, 1884, the day before Grover
Cleveland was elected President for the first time. His father wanted to name him
Grover Cleveland Martin. But hismother, a staunch Republican, said, "Grover's a
dog's name."
His father was a hard-working North Attleboro blacksmith whose earnings
were never more than $18 a week.
BERALB R.FORD LIBRARY
-2-
Since the family was poor, young Joe started to work outside of school hours
at the age of six. One of his jobs was to brush the flies off the horses while his
father shod them. Another job was as a delivery boy for the North Attleboro
EVENING CHRONICLE. (Now probably every newsboy dreams of one day becoming the owner
of the paper. But Joe Martin was one young man who was to make this dream come true.)
He got his political start by marching in a torchlight parade for William
McKinley in 1896. At the time, a family friend told his father, "Don't let that boy
go into politics -- he's too good a boy!"
Joe, who was otherwise a fellow of extremely good sense, did not listen to
this sound advice. Traveling by horse and buggy, he campaigned for the Massachusetts
House of Representatives in 1911, and was elected age twenty-seven.
In 1916 he began attending Republican Presidential Conventions. This would
become a habit of more than 50 years' duration. And today he holds the record --
unsurpassed in either party -- of having been five times the permanent chairman of
national conventions.
His gentle humor has broken many tense moments at conventions, as all of us
recall who were at San Francisco in 1956 when a Nebraska delegate tried to nominate
"Joe Smith" for Vice President.
But not all moments at national conventions are so supercharged. At his
first convention, Joe woke up in the middle of the night to find that a poker game
was in progress in his hotel room. And to his astonishment, he discovered that the
dealer was none other than the legendary Diamond Jim Brady!
By 1924 Joe was running for Congress, and he's held that office as your
representative ever since.
Those were the days of great orators in the House of Representatives. However,
not all Congressmen could keep from wallowing in cliches. Joe remembers that one
of the first "great" speeches he heard began: "I say to you, Mr. Speaker, that
politics makes strange bedfellows. Especially since women got into 'em."
Joe was put on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Of course, he really
wanted to be on the Post Office Committee! (But not all freshmen legislators could
be that lucky.) Interestingly, at that time the Foreign Affairs Committee spent a
full week debating such earth-shaking questions as to whether or not to authorize
$20,000 for an international poultry show in Tulsa.
The new Congressman began to establish his lifetime reputation as a fighter
for New England. But he also learned the pitfalls of his office. After getting a
new Post Office for Fall River, it turned out that the building contract went to a
firm in St. Louis! The building was constructed not with Fall River granite, but with
Indiana limestone! And to top it all off, the job of night watchman was given to
-3-
the father of Joe's Democratic opponent!
Yet, despite such temporary setbacks, he kept getting re-elected to Congress.
A dairyman from Taunton once said, "I vote the straight Democratic ticket, except
for Congressman Martin. I always vote for him because my father told me to,
fifteen years ago." Indeed, Joe Martin had become a vital institution in his
district.
Much deserved recognition came often to Joe Martin. 1936 -- he was chosen
Republican National Committeeman from Massachusetts. 1938 -- he was elected
Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. 1939 -- he became
the Republican Leader of the House. 1940 --- he was considered a dark horse candi-
date for the Presidency, and received forty-four votes at the convention. Although
he never sought the office, this is what the great Kansas editor, William Allen
White, said of him: "He will make if the dice roll right, a liberty-loving
President.
When Wendell Willkie was made the 1940 nominee, he begged Joe to become
Chairman of the Republican National Committee. Putting devotion to Party above
personal wishes, as usual, Joe accepted the post. As Chairman he had the rare
distinction of seeing the Committee evicted from its building when it was purchased
by an organization that hasn't been too friendly to most Republicans. However,
although he was far from a wealthy man, Joe took over another building and obligated
himself as a personal liability for the $33,000 lease. (Is there any wonder why
Republicans love Joe Martin?)
The greatest tribute came to Joe Martin in 1947 when he was first elected
Speaker of the House. Next to the President, as most students of government know,
the Speaker is the most powerful elective official in the United States.
But what most people don't know is that besides presiding over the House, the
Speaker has a great many other duties - such as supervising a Capitol bank with
assets of four million dollars. The Speaker also has responsibility for four barber-
shops and a beauty parlor. But Joe, as a confirmed bachelor, told a colleague, "I
think I'll let you run the beauty parlor. You are more experienced with the women
than I am."
This question of experience with the opposite sex was to change rapidly. For
under the new law of Presidential succession, Speaker Martin was first in line if
anything happened to President Truman. (There was no Vice President when Truman
succeeded FDR, you will recall.) Of course, the possibility of a bachelor President
was a great temptation to the single ladies of this country. Joe Martin was deluged
with offers of marriage! (One proposal that particularly amused him came from a
woman spiritualist in Clarksburg, West Virginia, who wrote that the deceased Wendell
-4-
Willkie had told her to marry Joe!)
There are a great many reasons for Joe Martin's success. But I would like
to mention just two of them.
The first is his adherence to the old New England principle of thrift. Once
Joe Martin invited a President of the United States to his office for lunch. He
called a caterer for some box lunches and was told that they would cost $2 apiece.
Well, this seemed a bit high to Joe, so he shopped around until he found a man who
would provide a box lunch for $1.19. I am sure that this makes Joe the only man in
American history to entertain a President at such a bargain price! And, of course,
Joe has always applied this same principle to the taxpayer's dollar.
Second, Joe Martin is a very likeable person. Even those who are his political
opponents have come to have a special place in their hearts for him. For example,
there is quite a collection of GOP elephants in Joe's office, and one of the most
handsome was given to him by Harry Truman. The story behind this is that someone
sent it to the White House, and Preisdent Truman told his secretary, "Take this up
to Joe Martin. I don't want any damned dancing elephants around here!"
Joe has served our nation with great skill. He has been a major force in
some of the most crucial decisions of our times. To cite just one instance:
During World War II General Marshall came to him and asked for $1.6 billion to
manufacturean atomic bomb. Joe's job would be to try to get this money from Congress
largely on faith -- for the greatest secrecy had to be maintained. Thus, to a large
extent, Joe Martin was responsible for putting through a program that eventually
shortened the war and saved millions of American lives.
But speaking to you, in a sense, as a representative of Joe Martin's Party,
I would also like to say a few words about "Joe Martin -- Republican.'
When he was first nominated for House leader in 1939, it was said of him:
"We are doing more than electing a floor leader. We are choosing a symbol of the
Republican Party
"
And Joe Martin has been a magnificent symbol of integrity, dedication, honor
and patriotism.
Through the darkest days of Republican Party history, he has played one of
the most significant roles in keeping the two-party system alive and functioning.
The dedication of Joe Martin's autobiography reads: "To the millions of
Republicans -- and to the many Democrats and Independents as well -- who fought with
me through the years to maintain the two-party system of government in the United
States."
This has been Joe Martin's greatest fight. And all Americans, gegardless of
Party, are very much in his debt, and owe him a lasting vote of thanks.
the
From all of us, Joe Martin, thank you from/bottom of our hearts.