Morgan Foster Larson

Overview

Morgan Foster Larson was the 40th Governor of New Jersey, serving from 1929 to 1932. A Republican engineer turned politician, Larson’s administration focused on infrastructure, transportation, and reform of state finances during the onset of the Great Depression.

Early Life and Education

Born in Perth Amboy, Larson attended local schools before entering Rutgers University, where he earned a degree in engineering in 1907. His technical training would later influence his public-works-oriented approach to governance.

Political Career

Larson began his public career as city engineer of Perth Amboy, later serving in the New Jersey State Senate (1922 – 1928), where he became Senate President in 1926. Known for his administrative skill and civic integrity, he won the 1928 gubernatorial election as a moderate reformer promising efficient, honest government.

Governorship (1929 – 1932)

His term coincided with the Great Depression, forcing his administration to confront severe fiscal challenges. Larson emphasized budget discipline, tax reform, and public infrastructure projects to combat economic decline. Although his efforts earned respect for prudence, he lost re-election amid national dissatisfaction with the Republican Party.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving office, Larson returned to engineering and civic affairs, continuing to work in public utilities and construction. He died in 1961 in New Brunswick. Remembered as a principled public servant, Larson bridged the worlds of engineering and politics at a pivotal time in New Jersey’s history.