Dr. D. T. Porter Born: 1827

Dr. D. T. Porter is one of the greatest Memphians in terms of success and generosity.  His name lives on today in the Porter Building and the Porter-Leath Orphanage.  Dr. Porter apprenticed for three years as a physician.  He moved to Memphis in 1857 and formed successful partnerships with three different men at various times, including Newton Ford.

Porter never took a public stance until the more serious yellow fever outbreaks occured.  Porter worked diligently to organize relief.  When the city surrendered its charter because it could not pay its debts with such a greatly reduced population it was Porter they turned to for leadership.

After winning the popular vote Porter was appointed President of the Taxing district by Governer Marks in 1879.  This role included the functions of mayor, recorder and commissioner of the Board of Public Works.  He worked in this capacity for 2 years, resigning in 1881.  During his two years in office he made a substantial start toward the general clean up of Memphis and the installation of a sewer system.

Before his death he was President of the Memphis National Bank, President of the Gayoso Cotton Seed Oil Works, President of Planters Fire Insurance Co., vice president of the Memphis Oil Company, a Director in the Brush Electric Light Co. and a Trustee of the Leath Orphanage.