March 10, 1824

Thomas James Churchill, the thirteenth governor of Arkansas, was born on his father’s farm near Louisville, Kentucky. Churchill led advances in health and education while in office. During his administration, legislation set standards for practicing medicine and established the Medical Department of Arkansas Industrial University (now the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) in Little Rock (Pulaski County). In addition to creating a facility for the mentally ill and a state board of health, his administration appropriated funds for a branch normal (teachers’ training) school in Pine Bluff (Jefferson County) for African-American students.