Ohio Senate Passes Reineke Bill Designating Rutherford B. Hayes Day

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Senate has passed a bill sponsored by Senators Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin) and Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) to designate the fourth day of October as "Rutherford B. Hayes Day," by a unanimous vote of 32-0. Hayes was the nineteenth president of the United States and one of seven presidents born in Ohio.

“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,” said Reineke. "Among his many other accomplishments, President Hayes was widely recognized for his work in creating the concept of career technical education. 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." 

"President Hayes left a legacy that touched the lives of many," said Brenner. "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. He was also a military hero, rising to the rank of major general during the Civil War. Hayes was elected to Congress without even campaigning while still in the Army, and 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 to receive their pensions.