Everis Hayes

Everis Hayes was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from California's 8th congressional district for seven consecutive terms from 1905 to 1919. A member of the Republican Party, Hayes was known for his involvement in local media and his political stances during a transformative period in American history. His tenure in Congress was marked by significant national events, including World War I, during which he took a controversial stance against the war. After leaving Congress, he returned to his business interests in the newspaper industry and mining.

Early life and career

Everis Anson Hayes was born on March 10, 1855, in Waterloo, Wisconsin, to Anson and Mary Hayes. He grew up in a family that valued education, which was evident in his academic pursuits. Hayes attended public schools in his hometown and graduated from Waterloo High School in 1873. He furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he completed both the literary and law programs, earning his degrees in 1879. Following his graduation, Hayes was admitted to the bar and began his legal career in Madison, Wisconsin.

In 1883, Hayes relocated to Ashland, Wisconsin, where he continued to practice law. Three years later, in 1886, he moved to Hurley, Wisconsin, furthering his legal career in the region. During this time, he also ventured into the mining industry, moving to Ironwood, Michigan, in the same year. His involvement in mining complemented his legal practice, showcasing his diverse interests and entrepreneurial spirit.

In 1887, Hayes made a significant move to San Jose, California. This transition marked a new chapter in his life, as he engaged in fruit farming and mining activities. His business acumen became evident when he and his brother, Jay Orley Hayes, purchased the San Jose Mercury in 1900. The following year, they acquired the San Jose Herald, and Hayes took on the roles of publisher and proprietor for both newspapers. This involvement in the media industry not only solidified his presence in the community but also provided him with a platform to influence public opinion and engage in local politics. The Hayes family further established their legacy in San Jose by constructing the Hayes Mansion in 1903, a notable landmark that reflected their prominence in the area.

House tenure

Hayes's political career took a significant turn when he decided to run for the U.S. House of Representatives. He successfully defeated the incumbent Democratic congressman William J. Wynn and was elected as a Republican to the Fifty-ninth Congress, beginning his first term on March 4, 1905. Hayes was re-elected to six additional Congresses, serving until March 3, 1919. His tenure in the House spanned a period of considerable change in the United States, including the Progressive Era and the onset of World War I.

During his time in Congress, Hayes was known for his strong stance on various issues, particularly his opposition to Japanese immigration, which reflected the nativist sentiments prevalent in certain political circles during that era. His views on immigration were part of a broader national discourse that sought to restrict the entry of specific ethnic groups into the United States. This aspect of his political identity was significant, as it aligned him with a faction of the Republican Party that was concerned about the cultural and economic implications of immigration.

One of the most notable moments in Hayes's congressional career occurred on April 5, 1917, when he was one of only fifty representatives who voted against the declaration of war on Germany. This vote positioned him as a controversial figure during a time when the nation was rallying in support of the war effort. His opposition to the war reflected a commitment to his principles, even in the face of widespread public support for military engagement. This decision would later impact his political career, as he faced challenges in the subsequent election.

Despite his long tenure in Congress, Hayes was unsuccessful in his bid for re-election in 1918 to the Sixty-sixth Congress. His defeat marked the end of his political career in the House, concluding a significant chapter in his life that had begun over a decade earlier. After leaving Congress, Hayes returned to his previous business interests, resuming his activities in the newspaper industry in San Jose while also maintaining mining interests in Ironwood, Michigan, and Sierra City, California.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Hayes's legislative focus was shaped by the political climate of the early 20th century and his personal beliefs. His opposition to Japanese immigration was a defining aspect of his political identity, and he often aligned himself with other lawmakers who shared similar views. This stance was indicative of the broader nativist movement that sought to limit immigration from Asia and other regions, reflecting concerns about cultural assimilation and economic competition.

In addition to his immigration stance, Hayes's voting record and public statements during his time in Congress suggest that he was engaged with the pressing issues of his day, including labor rights, economic development, and national security. His vote against the declaration of war on Germany is particularly noteworthy, as it illustrated his commitment to a non-interventionist foreign policy, which was a contentious position at the time. This vote may have stemmed from a belief in diplomatic solutions over military action, a perspective that resonated with certain constituents who were wary of U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts.

While specific details regarding the committees on which Hayes served are not provided, it is common for members of Congress to participate in committees that align with their legislative interests and the needs of their constituents. Given his background in law and business, it is plausible that he may have been involved in committees related to commerce, labor, or judiciary matters, although this cannot be confirmed without additional information.

After leaving Congress, Hayes continued to influence his community through his work in the newspaper industry, where he likely used his platform to address local and national issues. His involvement in mining also suggests a continued interest in economic development and resource management, areas that were critical to the growth of California during the early 20th century.

Everis Hayes passed away on June 3, 1942, in San Jose, California. He was interred at Oak Hill Memorial Park Cemetery, leaving behind a legacy marked by his contributions to both the legal field and American politics during a pivotal era. His life and career reflect the complexities of early 20th-century American society, characterized by rapid change, immigration debates, and the challenges of global conflict.