McDaniel, Lawrence

The following data is extracted from Centennial History of Missouri.

Lawrence McDaniel, member of the St. Louis bar and professor of law at Benton College, is a man who at all times has measured up to the fullest requirements 'and highest standards of American citizenship and whose activity clearly reflects credit and honor upon the profession which he represents. Born in Savannah, Missouri, January 31, 1884, he is a son of Gilbert and Jane McDaniel. He completed his education in the University of Missouri, which conferred upon him the LL. B. degree, and, having thus prepared for the bar, he entered at once upon the active practice of law, in which he has since continued. He has not only tried many cases but many kinds of cases and has tried all well. From 1913 until 1917 he served as assistant circuit attorney in St. Louis and in the latter year was called to the office of circuit attorney, in which position he continued for a four years' term, or until 1921. His knowledge of the law is comprehensive and exact, and he has shown marked ability in accurately applying its principles to the point in litigation. Moreover, he has won a most creditable position as an educator in professional fields, being now professor of law in Benton College.

Mr. McDaniel has been married twice. On the 30th of August, 1906, in St. Joseph, Missouri, he wedded Miss Claire Webster and on the 22d of June, 1918, in St. Louis, he was married to Miss Elsie Belle Smith. His children are three in number: Gilbert W., Lydia and Lawrence, aged respectively thirteen, nine and five years, all born of his first marriage.

In politics Mr. McDaniel has always been a democrat, active in support of the party and its principles. In 1919 and 1920 he served as federal fair price commissioner ror Missouri and during the war period he acted as chairman of the soldiers and sailors protective commission for St. Louis. He has never held political office outside the strict path of his profession but as a private citizen does everything in his power to secure the adoption of democratic principles because of his firm belief in the platform of the party. Fraternally he is well known, having membership in all the various Masonic bodies, the Knights of Pythias, Royal Arcanum, Woodmen of the World, Ancient Order of United Workmen and Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is likewise identified with a number of leading clubs and is now president of the Western Rowing Club, a member of the University Club, Riverview Club, Midland Valley Country Club, City Club, Etks Club, Optimist Club and the Advertising Club. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, and his belief in its teachings have been the underlying force in all of his activities and his interests.

Source: Centennial History of Missouri

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