Definition
Henry De Lamar Flood (January 21, 1877 – May 19, 1937) was an American attorney and Democratic politician who served as a United States Representative from Virginia's 6th congressional district for eleven consecutive terms.
Overview
Born in Appomattox County, Virginia, Flood graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1898 and was admitted to the bar the same year. He began his legal practice in Appomattox and quickly entered public service, holding positions as the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Appomattox County (1901–1905) and as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates (1908–1910). In 1910, Flood was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, succeeding William A. Jones. He served from March 4, 1911, until his death in 1937, representing Virginia’s 6th district during a period that encompassed World War I, the Roaring Twenties, and the Great Depression.
During his congressional tenure, Flood chaired several committees, most notably the Committee on Military Affairs (Sixty-seventh and Sixty-eighth Congresses) and the Committee on the District of Columbia (Seventy-first Congress). He was known for his advocacy of veterans’ benefits, infrastructure development in Virginia, and support for the agricultural interests of his constituents. Flood was a delegate to the Democratic National Conventions in 1912, 1920, and 1924.
Flood died while in office in Washington, D.C., on May 19, 1937. He was interred in Hope Cemetery, Appomattox. His son, Robert L. Flood, later served as a judge of the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
Etymology/Origin
The surname “Flood” is of English origin, derived from the Old English word flōd meaning “a flood” or “a stream.” The middle name “De Lamar” reflects a French surname, likely adopted by the family as a personal or familial name. The given name “Henry” is of Germanic origin, from Heimirich (“home ruler”).
Characteristics
- Profession: Attorney, legislator
- Political affiliation: Democratic Party
- Congressional service: 1911–1937 (Sixty‑second to Seventy‑fiveth Congresses)
- Committee leadership: Chairman, Committee on Military Affairs; Chairman, Committee on the District of Columbia
- Key legislative interests: Military affairs, veterans’ benefits, infrastructure, agriculture, and district governance
- Legacy: Longest‑serving representative from Virginia’s 6th district at the time of his death; recognized for contributions to military legislation and support for rural Virginians.
Related Topics
- United States House of Representatives
- Virginia’s 6th congressional district
- Democratic Party (United States)
- Committee on Military Affairs (U.S. House)
- Committee on the District of Columbia (U.S. House)
- Early 20th‑century American politics
- Veterans’ affairs legislation in the United States