Clarence Bamberger
Clarence G. Bamberger | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S. |
| Died | February 18, 1984 (aged 97) |
| Occupation(s) | Mining industry leader, politician, benefactor |
| Years active | Early 1900s–1984 |
| Known for | Utah House of Representatives (1913), War Industries Board service, philanthropy in medical and educational institutions |
Clarence G. Bamberger (July 16, 1886 – February 18, 1984) was a prominent American figure known for his roles as a mining industry leader, political representative, and benefactor. In 1913, he held a seat in the Utah House of Representatives and contributed to the War Industries Board during the period of World War I.
Early life
Born in Salt Lake City, Utah on July 16, 1886, Clarence G. Bamberger was the son of Bertha (née Greenewald) and Jacob E. Bamberger. His education began in Salt Lake City's public schools before attending Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. He graduated with a degree in mining engineering from Cornell University in 1908, then pursued advanced studies at Berlin’s Royal School of Mines for one year and spent an additional two years at the Paris School of Mines.
Career
Following his academic training, Bamberger undertook geological surveys related to oil fields in Mexico, aligning with his family’s business ventures. A member of the Republican party, he represented Utah in the Utah House of Representatives in 1913, where he was instrumental in introducing the state's inaugural workmen's compensation legislation. He actively campaigned against prohibition within Utah and served as state commander for the Utah Association Opposed to Prohibition. In 1914, he sought election to the Utah State Senate but was defeated by George Dern.
During the First World War, Bamberger held the rank of captain within the ordnance department and participated on the War Industries Board. His involvement continued into World War II, where he acted as executive director for Utah’s war loan campaigns and served as executive vice chairman of the War Finance Committee from 1942 until 1946. Additionally, he led Utah Citizens for Eisenhower during the 1952 election cycle.
In his commercial pursuits, Bamberger partnered with his father and brother Ernest to fund and manage mining ventures across Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, alongside oil operations in Mexico and California. Notable mining interests under his management included Aspen’s Smuggler Mine, Daly & Daly West Mines, Park City’s Ontario silver mine, and Coalville’s Weber Coal Mine.
Philanthropy
Bamberger held significant positions within banking institutions, acting as director and executive committee member at Walker Bank & Trust (which later became First Interstate), as well as founding director roles at both the Bank of Utah and Bank of Kearns. Through his association with Basil O'Connor, he served as national director for the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis until his passing. During the 1930s, he played a key role in restructuring and directed efforts nationally for the American Red Cross. His philanthropic reach extended to Alcoholics Anonymous as a national board member and included chairing responsibilities at the Utah State Hospital. His medical-related contributions also encompassed board membership at Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City, leadership as chairman of the Utah National Fund for Medical Education, vice chairmanship at University of Utah Medical Center, and participation on the National Founders' Board of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.
His service extended to educational governance as a regent of the University of Utah and board member at Westminster College. He also contributed to institutions such as the Hoover Library in Palo Alto and was involved with Cornell University Council.
Personal life
On February 14, 1915, Bamberger wed Marie Odell, daughter of George T. Odell; she died in 1971. The couple had three children: two daughters named Marie and Gloria, and a son named Clarence Jr. In 1919, he acquired a home located on East South Temple Street in Salt Lake City. He maintained membership at the Alta Club from 1911 until his death.
Clarence G. Bamberger passed away on February 18, 1984, and was interred at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Salt Lake City.