Hayes Day now official in Ohio

FREMONT — A new state law is honoring one of Ohio's most influential historical figures with a day of recognition each October. President Rutherford B. Hayes' birthday, Oct. 4, is now officially recognized as Rutherford B. Hayes Day in the state of Ohio. It occurred following the signing of Senate Bill 21 by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine on June 5. The bill was first co-sponsored by Sen. Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) and Rep. Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin). The legislation honors Hayes' enduring legacy as a native Ohioan, Civil War general, former congressman and governor and 19th president of the U.S. "President Rutherford B. Hayes developed career tech, and, to this day, we use him as our model for helping people find their true career path," Reineke said. "I am glad we have a day to recognize all his accomplishments." Born in Delaware, Ohio, Hayes practiced law in Fremont and Cincinnati, served three terms as Ohio's governor and was elected president in 1876. He was the first U.S. president to possess a law degree and was a strong advocate for education, veterans' rights and prison reform. He and First Lady Lucy Hayes were also deeply involved in supporting orphans of the Civil War. "President Hayes left a legacy that touched the lives of many," Brenner said. "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 was most proud of his Civil War Service, rising to the rank of general. After leaving the White House in 1881, he and Lucy retired to Spiegel Grove in Fremont, now home to the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums site. It's the first presidential library in the U.S. and the forerunner of the federal presidential library system. Hayes Presidential is partially funded by the state of Ohio and affiliated with the Ohio History Connection. It is located at Spiegel Grove on Buckland Avenue. People can learn more by visiting rbhayes.org or calling 419-332-2081. They can also follow Hayes Presidential on Facebook, Instagram, X and Bluesky at @rbhayespres.