Findlay Times

The Ohio Senate has passed Senate Bill 62, sponsored by State Senator Bill Reineke, to designate October 4 as Rutherford B. Hayes Day in Ohio. This bill aims to honor President Hayes, who is credited with starting career technical education.

In a statement, Senator Reineke expressed his admiration for President Hayes, describing him as "a great Ohioan and a great American." He highlighted Hayes' legacy of leadership, which moved the nation forward in both good and troubled times. Senator Reineke also expressed his pride in having the Rutherford B. Hayes Library and Museums, the first presidential library, located in Fremont. He hopes that celebrating Hayes on his birthday every year will educate all Ohioans about this venerable statesman.

President Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency was marked by his commitment to protecting the voting rights of African Americans and pursuing education for equality. He is considered the father of career technical education, advocating for opportunities that would allow all people to prosper in the United States. President Hayes also championed civil service reforms, ensuring that high offices were filled based on merit and hard work rather than political patronage. Additionally, he signed a bill that allowed female attorneys to appear before the Supreme Court.

Before serving as President, Hayes made significant contributions to Ohio and the nation. He was born and educated in Ohio, attending Kenyon College and Harvard Law School. Upon completing his legal education, Hayes returned to Ohio and became actively involved in anti-slavery work, taking on cases to help fugitive slaves.

When the Civil War broke out, Hayes enlisted in the Union Army and rose to the rank of major general. Despite not campaigning, he was elected to Congress and took office only after the war was won. In Congress, Hayes fought for legislation to secure the rights of black citizens. Subsequently, he became the Governor of Ohio.

True to his word, Hayes chose not to run for a second term as President. After his time in Washington, he retired to Spiegel Grove in Fremont, where he continued to advocate for all Americans until his death at the age of 70.

Senate Bill 62 will now be considered by the Ohio House, marking an important step in honoring the legacy of President Rutherford B. Hayes and his contributions to Ohio and the nation.

Click this link to access more information: https://ohiosenate.gov/members/bill-reineke/news/senate-passes-reineke-bill-to-honor-president-rutherford-b-hayes