Bill would designate ‘Rutherford B. Hayes Day’ in Ohio

The Ohio Senate recently passed a bill to designate the fourth day of October as “Rutherford B. Hayes Day.”

“He made waves in 1879 by signing into law that women may be admitted to the Supreme Court Bar and allowed to argue cases at the high court, impacting the careers and education of women across America,” state Sen. Bill Reineke, R-Tiffin, said in a release.

“Among his many other accomplishments, President Hayes was widely recognized for his work in creating the concept of career technical education,” Reineke added. “To this day, trade skills are the backbone of the American economy, and President Hayes’ commitment to developing these programs has resulted in the creation of new jobs that had not previously existed. This still holds true today.”

Lawmakers voted 32-0 to pass the bill honoring Hayes, the 19th president of the United States and one of seven presidents born in Ohio.

“President Hayes left a legacy that touched the lives of many,” state Sen. Andrew Brenner, R-Delaware, said in a release. “He attended Kenyon College and Harvard Law School, and practiced law in the cities of Sandusky and Cincinnati. A longstanding advocate and steward for education, President Hayes is also known for his efforts as governor, including laying the foundation for Ohio State University by appointing trustees and getting the ball rolling.”

Hayes became a Republican because of his opposition to slavery and rose to the rank of major general during the Civil War. He was elected to Congress while still in the Army and without campaigning.

He refused to take his seat until the Union had won the war.

Hayes was elected governor of Ohio three times before he became President of the United States on March 4, 1877. He refused to serve a second term and retired to Fremont, Ohio, where he promoted universal education, worked to improve prison conditions, and fought to help veterans receive their pensions.