This week in Chippewa Valley history.
John Doar born on December 3, 1921, in New Richmond
John Michael Doar was born in New Richmond, Wisconsin, on December 3, 1921. He served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights from 1961 to 1965 and later as head of the division. Doar was instrumental in civil rights events, including James Meredith’s admission to the University of Mississippi and the protection of Freedom Riders. He prosecuted cases involving civil rights violations, including the murders of civil rights workers in Mississippi. Doar also played a key role in the impeachment inquiry against Richard Nixon in 1974. After leaving the government, he worked in private practice and led the New York City Board of Education. Doar died in 2014. His legacy is honored in his hometown, with the John Doar History Trail dedicated to his contributions to civil rights and justice.
