By 1808Delaware
Today we look at another person whose birth or residence connected him or her with Delaware County.
Benson Walker Hough was born on March 5, 1875, in Berkshire Township. His journey into public service began with an education that set the foundation for his career. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1897, followed by a Bachelor of Laws from Ohio State University in 1899. Soon after, he entered private legal practice in Delaware.
Hough’s commitment to his state and country extended beyond the courtroom. From 1915 to 1916, he served as the Adjutant General of Ohio, overseeing the state’s military affairs. When the United States entered World War I, he chose to serve actively, requesting a voluntary demotion from General to Colonel so he could accompany the 4th Ohio Infantry to France. The unit, later renamed the 166th U.S. Infantry, became part of the legendary 42nd Infantry Division, also known as the “Rainbow Division.” His leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on the men he commanded in battle.
Judicial Career and Federal Appointment
Following his return from military service, Hough shifted his focus back to the law. In 1920, he was elected as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio, where he served until 1923. His judicial expertise and dedication to justice led to his appointment as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, a role he held from 1923 to 1925.
Recognizing his contributions to the legal field, President Calvin Coolidge nominated Hough for a seat on the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio in 1925. Confirmed by the Senate, he assumed the position on February 9, 1925, succeeding Judge John Elbert Sater. His tenure as a federal judge was marked by fairness, integrity, and a deep commitment to upholding the law. He served in this role until his passing on November 19, 1935.
Honoring His Contributions
Hough’s impact on Ohio’s judicial and military history did not go unrecognized. In tribute to his legacy, a plaque dedicated to him stands in the Ohio Statehouse’s North Light Court. This plaque, installed by his comrades from the 42nd Infantry Division, honors his lifelong service in both the military and judiciary. The inscription commemorates his various roles, including his time as Ohio Adjutant General, his leadership in the 166th U.S. Infantry during World War I, his tenure as a Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court, and his service as a federal judge.
The plaque reads:
“MAJOR GENERAL BENSON W. HOUGH 1875-1935 BORN IN DELAWARE COUNTY ENLISTED CO. K. 4TH INF. O. N. G.-1892 OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY-1896 OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY LAW-1899 ADJUTANT GENERAL OF OHIO 1915-1916 COLONEL COMMANDING 166TH U.S. INF. 42ND DIV. 1917-1919 MAJOR GENERAL COMMANDING 37TH DIV 1920-1935 JUDGE SUPREME COURT OF OHIO 1920-1922 U. S. DISTRICT ATTORNEY 1922-1925 FEDERAL JUDGE SOUTHER DISTRICT OF OHIO 1925-1935 HON. MEMBER SUPREME COUNCIL ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE 33”
Dedicated to his memory on July 14, 1937, the plaque serves as a lasting tribute to Hough’s contributions to Ohio and the nation.
Benson Walker Hough’s contributions to both his state and country remain an enduring part of Ohio’s history. His dedication to justice and military leadership exemplifies a life of service, leaving a legacy that continues to be remembered and honored today.
Image by Mo Farrelly from Pixabay
