Quick Facts
Biography
Wilbur John Carr (1870-1942) was an American diplomat. He was named one of three Great Civil Servants, along with William Hunter, and Alvey Augustus Adee.
Early life and education
He was born in Taylorsville, Ohio. He attended College in Kentucky, graduating from the Commercial College of the University of Kentucky in 1889. After taking a shorthand course, he became a stenographer and accountant at Peekskill Military Academy while continuing his education.
Career
On June 1, 1892, he was appointed a clerk in the Department of State. Ten years later, he became Chief of the Consular Bureau, then Chief Clerk of the Department. On November 30, 1909, he became Director of the Consular Service, an office created specifically for him, and which he held through June 30, 1924. He helped establish Civil Service reform, leading to the Rogers Act.
From July 1, 1924 – July 28, 1937, Carr was Assistant Secretary of State.
His papers are held at the Library of Congress.
Works
- "W. J. Carr Discusses Consular Service". The Harvard Crimson. March 21, 1921.
- "What Your Consuls Do". American Consular Bulletin. 4 (1): 3–5; 20–25. January 1922. Retrieved 19 January 2017.