Frederick Zihlman

Frederick Zihlman was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Maryland's 6th congressional district from 1917 to 1931. A member of the Republican Party, Zihlman had a notable career in both state and federal government, marked by his involvement in labor issues and his leadership within various labor organizations. His tenure in Congress included participation in significant committees and a focus on issues pertinent to his constituents and the nation.

Early life and career

Frederick Nicholas Zihlman was born on October 2, 1879, in Carnegie, Pennsylvania, located in Allegheny County. In 1882, when he was just three years old, his family relocated to Cumberland, Maryland. Zihlman received his early education in the public school system of Cumberland, where he developed skills that would later serve him in his professional life. At the age of eleven, he began working as an apprentice glass blower in a local glass factory, marking the start of his long career in the glass industry.

Zihlman's early professional experiences were closely tied to labor organizations. He became actively involved in labor rights, serving as president of the local flint-glass workers' union from 1904 to 1909. His leadership extended beyond the local level; he was elected to the national executive board of the union in 1905 and 1906. Additionally, Zihlman was president of the Allegany Trades Council during the same period, further solidifying his reputation as a labor leader. His commitment to labor issues was recognized when he served as president of the Maryland State Federation of Labor in 1906 and 1907.

In 1912, Zihlman transitioned from the glass industry to the fields of real estate and insurance, establishing a business in Cumberland. This shift marked a significant change in his career, allowing him to broaden his professional scope while remaining engaged in community affairs.

House tenure

Zihlman's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Maryland State Senate, where he served from 1909 until 1917. During his time in the state senate, he held the position of Republican floor leader in 1914 and 1916, demonstrating his leadership capabilities and his influence within the party. Although he made an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Congress in 1914, Zihlman was elected to the Sixty-fifth Congress in 1916 and subsequently served a total of seven terms in the House of Representatives, from March 4, 1917, to March 3, 1931.

Throughout his congressional tenure, Zihlman was involved in various legislative matters and was recognized for his leadership roles on several committees. He served as the chairman of the Committee on Expenditures in the Post Office Department during the Sixty-sixth and Sixty-seventh Congresses. In addition to this role, he was a member of the Committee on the District of Columbia during the Sixty-seventh Congress and the Sixty-ninth through Seventy-first Congresses. He also contributed to the Committee on Labor during the Sixty-seventh and Sixty-eighth Congresses, reflecting his ongoing commitment to labor issues.

Zihlman's voting record included notable positions on several key pieces of legislation. He was the only Representative from Maryland to support the Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill, which aimed to address racial violence and discrimination. His stance on this issue highlighted his willingness to take a stand on social justice matters, even when it was not a popular position within his party or constituency.

Despite his accomplishments, Zihlman's career was not without controversy. In 1929, he faced accusations of corruption and bribery, which led to an inquiry into his conduct. However, the investigation did not yield any evidence against him, and he was acquitted of all charges. This incident did not significantly impact his political career at the time, but it may have contributed to challenges he faced in subsequent elections.

Zihlman's time in Congress came to an end when he was unsuccessful in his bid for reelection in 1930. He also attempted to return to Congress in 1934 but was again defeated. Following his departure from public office, Zihlman returned to his business pursuits in Cumberland, where he continued to engage in real estate and insurance until his death.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Frederick Zihlman was involved in various legislative initiatives and served on several important committees that shaped policy in his areas of interest. His role as chairman of the Committee on Expenditures in the Post Office Department allowed him to oversee financial matters related to the postal service, a critical aspect of government operations during his tenure.

Zihlman's involvement with the Committee on the District of Columbia reflected his interest in urban issues and governance, particularly as they pertained to the federal district. This committee's work often involved addressing the unique challenges faced by the nation's capital, including infrastructure, public services, and local governance.

His participation in the Committee on Labor underscored his longstanding commitment to labor rights and issues affecting workers. This committee was pivotal during a time when labor movements were gaining momentum across the country, and Zihlman's experience as a labor leader likely informed his contributions to discussions and legislation in this area.

Overall, Zihlman's legislative focus was characterized by a blend of labor advocacy and attention to the needs of his constituents in Maryland. His voting record and committee assignments indicate a dedication to addressing both local and national issues, particularly those affecting working-class individuals and communities.

After leaving Congress, Zihlman resumed his business activities in Cumberland, where he continued to live until his death on April 22, 1935. He is interred in St. John's Cemetery in Forest Glen, Maryland, leaving behind a legacy marked by his contributions to labor rights and public service in Maryland.