Governor Ben Walter Hooper

Born in Newport on October 13, 1870, Hooper was a successful Cocke County attorney.

He was elected governor and served two terms, 1911-15. His election is attributed to the influence of fusion, the coalition of the prohibition factions of both major political parties. He later served as chairman of the U.S. Railroad Labor Board, 1921-26. Governor Hooper died on April 18, 1957 and is buried in the Union Cemetery.

Marker is on Crosby Hwy (U.S. 321).