1914 Biography - Oswald W. McNeese

McNeese, Oswald W., of Baton Rouge, adjutant-general of the state of Louisiana, was born Oct. 18, 1880, in Lake Charles, La.; son of John and Susan (Bilbo) McNeese, the former having been reared in Maryland, and the latter, in Lake Charles, daughter of William Bilbo, one of the pioneer settlers of that section of the State. Gen. McNeese's father came to Louisiana about 1870, located in Calcasieu parish, in the practice of law, was appointed superintendent of public education. His wife is still living in the city of Lake Charles. Two daughters and 5 sons were born to their union. The subject of this sketch is the second of the family, and was educated in the high school of his native city, and at Louisiana state university. In 1902 he engaged in the banking business, and was assistant cashier of the Lake Charles National bank until appointed adjutant-general of Louisiana, by the governor. That change in profession necessitated a removal of residence to Baton Rouge. In early manhood Gen. McNeese showed a lively interest in military matters, for which he had a natural aptitude. He served as 1st lieutenant of Company K, 1st infantry; was promoted to captain and next major, serving till June 3, 1912. In the year 1910, he married Miss Grover Cleveland Dupre, daughter of Laurent Dupre of Opelousas, La. Gen. McNeese is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon; also of the Knights of Pythias; and is affiliated with the democratic party of which he is a stanch and loyal supporter, always taking the greatest interest in public affairs.

Contributed 2021 Nov 04 by Mike Miller, from Louisiana: Comprising Sketches, edited by Alcee Fortier, published in 1914, volume 3, pages 275-276.