William Prichard

Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame

Affectionately known as "Mr. Soybean," Mr. Prichard was leader and spokesperson for agriculture. He started his career as a professional baseball player, but after two years became a county agent. His real interest turned out to be farming, and he established a successful seed processing/warehouse business. Mr. Prichard was a champion for the cause of farmers and very active in public policy debates. As a result, he dropped his efforts at seed production - a major portion of his lively-hood - because of his strong belief that he could represent the industry better if he did not have a vested interest in that industry. He influenced United States agriculture policy in the 1970's and 1980's, and helped shape agriculture policy to enhance exports of soybeans and soybean products. During the Reagan administration, Mr. Prichard was instrumental in forming a policy of banning embargoes on agricultural products. Under his leadership, soybeans emerged as a major cash crop in Georgia and the southeast.

Birth: 1913

Death: November 10, 1993

Occupation: Farmer; Georgia Soybean President 1968-1980; Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Soybean Chairman 1970-1984; American Soybean Association Director 1970-1983, Vice-President 1980; American Soybean Association Research Foundation 1976-1982.