Delaware County Review

The Ohio Senate has passed a bill to designate October 4 as "Rutherford B. Hayes Day." The bill, sponsored by Senators Andrew Brenner and Bill Reineke, was approved unanimously with a 32-0 vote. Rutherford B. Hayes, the nineteenth president of the United States, was one of seven presidents born in Ohio, specifically in Delaware, which is currently represented by Senator Brenner.

"President Hayes left a legacy that touched the lives of many," said Brenner. He highlighted Hayes' educational background at Kenyon College and Harvard Law School and his legal practice in Sandusky and Cincinnati. Brenner also noted Hayes' contributions as governor, including his role in establishing Ohio State University.

Reineke emphasized Hayes' influence on career technical education. "Hayes was widely recognized for his work in creating the concept of career technical education," he stated. Reineke praised Hayes' commitment to developing programs that have continued to generate new job opportunities.

Hayes was known for his opposition to slavery, leading him to join the Republican Party. During the Civil War, he rose to major general and was elected to Congress without campaigning while still serving in the Army. He refused to take office until after the Union's victory.

After being elected governor of Ohio three times, Hayes became President on March 4, 1877. He chose not to seek a second term and retired to Fremont, Ohio. There, he focused on promoting universal education, improving prison conditions, and advocating for veterans' pensions.