Byrne was active in several civic organizations , including the YMCA and Elks . After attending the 1896 Democratic National Convention and hearing William Jennings Bryan speak , Byrne developed a lifelong interest in oratory . In addition to honing his own speaking skills through study and practice , Byrne instructed a course on public speaking for the Albany-area YMCA . He also taught public speaking at Albany Law School . Byrne spoke frequently at public events and developed a nationwide reputation as an orator on behalf of these and other organizations . In 1922 and 1924 , Byrne nominated Al Smith for governor at the state Democratic convention . In 1938 , he was called upon to nominate Herbert H. Lehman for reelection as governor
1896 Democratic National Convention
1896 Democratic National Convention
William T. Byrne