Edward Patton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward A. "Ed" Patton
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Texas House of Representatives | |
| In office January 13, 1891 – January 10, 1893 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1859 |
| Political party | Republican |
| Occupation | Teacher, farmer, politician |
Edward A. "Ed" Patton was an important American teacher, farmer, and politician. He was born around 1859. Ed Patton was a member of the Republican Party. He lived in a place called Evergreen, Texas.
Patton represented San Jacinto and Polk counties in the Texas House of Representatives. This was during the time of the Twenty-second Texas Legislature. When he was elected, he was the only Black person serving in the Texas Legislature.
Contents
Who Was Edward A. Patton?
Edward A. Patton played a key role in Texas politics. He was a teacher and a farmer before becoming a politician. His work helped shape laws in Texas during the late 1800s. He focused on helping people in his community.
Early Life and Career
Ed Patton was born around 1859. Not much is known about his early life. We know he worked as a teacher and a farmer. These jobs helped him understand the needs of everyday Texans. His experiences likely led him to become interested in politics. He wanted to make a difference for his community.
A Voice in the Texas Legislature
In 1891, Ed Patton was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. This was a big achievement. He was the only Black member in the legislature at that time. He worked hard for the people he represented.
Working for Education
One of Patton's main goals was to improve education. He served on the Education Committee in the House. He worked to get money for the Prairie View State Normal School. This school was very important for training teachers. It helped many students get a good education.
Supporting Texans
Patton supported several important ideas. He wanted to create the Railroad Commission of Texas. This group would help control railroads and protect people from unfair prices. He also worked to lower property taxes for farmers. Many farmers in his area had their lands damaged by floods. He wanted to help them recover. Patton also spoke out against the poll tax. A poll tax was a fee people had to pay to vote. This tax often stopped poorer people from voting.
Life After Politics
After serving one term in the Texas House, Patton moved. By 1920, he was living in Washington, D.C.. There, he worked for the United States federal government. He continued to serve the public in a different way.
A Family Legacy
Ed Patton's family continued his legacy of public service. His granddaughter, Arlyne Patten, had a daughter named Barbara Jordan. Barbara Jordan became a very famous politician. She was the first Black person to serve in the Texas Senate since 1893. She was also the first Black woman from a Southern state to serve in the United States House of Representatives. Ed Patton's work helped pave the way for future leaders like Barbara Jordan.
See also
