Frank McLaughlin papers, 1930-1960

Frank McLaughlin was president of Seattle's Puget Sound Power and Light Company from 1931 to 1960. Initially sent by his employer, the nationwide utility holding firm Stone and Webster, McLaughlin had the task of salvaging the firm's investment in Puget Power as it confronted the Depression economy and the social and political agitation for public ownership of electric power companies. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Puget Power faced public condemnation and repeated attempts at confiscation. McLaughlin countered with legal action, advertising, rate reductions, and a public speaking campaign. He personally gave some 3,000 speeches to groups during the first 20 years of his tenure. McLaughlin retired from Puget Power in 1960 and died May 28, 1972.