Governor Jim and Mrs. Brenda Edgar talk about their long life together, much of it in the public eye as Jim worked his way up the political ladder, first as Student Body President at Eastern Illinois University, then through an unsuccessful legislative campaign in 1974, and a successful campaign in 1976. The two discuss Jim's selection as the legislative liaison for Governor Jim Thompson, and Jim's surprising appointment as the Secretary of State in 1980. They shared several anecdotes about the campaign trail, and about their life together as Governor and First Lady from 1991 through January, 1999.
Interview Links
Abstract
Interview Session (Audio)
Related Materials
See Also
The extensive interview with Governor Jim Edgar, as well as the interview with Mrs. Edgar, both part of the Governor Jim Edgar series.
Photos
Caption
Jim and Brenda Edgar relax while on their way to a National Secretary of State conference in Vail Colorado. It was at this conference that Edgar received a call from Governor Jim Thompson where Thompson announced he would not be running for reelection.
Where:
Vail, Colorado
When:
July, 1989
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.
Caption
Secretary of State Edgar, Mrs. Edgar with children Elizabeth and Brad (on the right) at the 1989 Illinois State Fair. The Edgars shared the spotlight with Matthew Raben, the exhibitor of the Junior Grand Champion Rabbit.
Where:
Illinois State Fair
When:
1989
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.
Caption
Election night in Chicago’s Hyatt Hotel. It was a long night for the Edgars, and early morning before his election became official. From left to right are Elizabeth, Brad, Brenda and Gov. Jim Edgar, Jennifer Kustra, Lt. Gov. Bob Kustra and Kathy Kustra.
Where:
Chicago’s Hyatt Hotel
When:
November 6, 1990
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.
Caption
Governor and Mrs. Edgar with their dogs Emy and Daisy, at the Hayes Home on the DuQuin State Fairgrounds. The Edgars loved their dogs.
Where:
Hayes Home on the DuQuin State Fairgrounds
When:
Unknown
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.
Caption
In his last parade as governor, Edgar and his wife, Brenda, greet supporters in Charleston during Eastern Illinois University’s 1998 homecoming festivities.
Where:
Charleston, Illinois
When:
1998
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.
Caption
Governor Edgar’s official portrait. The governor was proud that he was able to sneak Brenda into the portrait by way of a photo on the fireplace mantle.
Where:
Unknown
When:
Unknown
Ownership:
May be restricted. Patrons desiring to use this photograph should contact the ALPL Audio-Visual Curator.
Caption
The Edgars featured their five grandchildren and the family dog in their 2008 Christmas card. From left to right are Ellie Edgar, Dakota Edgar, the family dog Buddy, Cali Ann Edgar, Cecilia Lowe and Jake Lowe.
Where:
Unknown
When:
2008
Ownership:
Narrator’s photo