Interview with O. B. Springer, April 21, 1977

Interview Summary

O.B. Springer, a longtime friend of Earle Clements, remembers Clements' charisma as a football coach, and their time in school together. He describes Clements' family and upbringing. Springer describes some of Clements' early campaigns: as campaign manager for Tom Rhea in the 1935 gubernatorial primaries against Happy Chandler; his 1941 campaign for State Senate; and his 1944 campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives. Springer tells of Clements' 1947 failed gubernatorial campaign, and the role Springer played on the campaign trail. He also discusses the effect of the Clements/Chandler party factions on the election. Springer reflects on campaign financing in the 1947 gubernatorial campaign and his experience on Clements' finance committee. Springer answers a few questions about Clements' time as governor before the discussion turns to Clements' 1950 campaign for U.S. Senate, and Clements' integrity in dealing with campaign funding. The interview is brought to a close by discussing Clements' 1956 defeat for re-election to Thruston Morton, followed by a couple questions about Clements' personality.

Interview Keyword

Earle C. Clements United States politics Football. Coaches (Athletics) Families.

Interview LC Subject

Clements, Earle C. (Earle Chester), 1896-1985 Governors Kentucky. Governor (1947-1950 : Clements) Legislators Legislators--United States Politicians Politicians--United States Springer, O.B. Springer, O.B.--Interviews Political campaigns--Kentucky Campaign funds

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.