David De Armond

David De Armond was an American lawyer and politician who served as a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives from Missouri. His congressional career spanned nearly two decades, during which he represented two different congressional districts. Known for his strong public speaking skills and commitment to labor law, De Armond was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party during his tenure, although he did not attain the leadership positions for which he was considered.

Early life and career

David Albaugh De Armond was born on March 18, 1844, in Altoona, Pennsylvania. He was the eldest of six children born to James De Armond and Catherine Albaugh De Armond, with ancestral roots tracing back to Irish and Dutch heritage. De Armond received his early education in public schools and later graduated from Lycoming College in 1866. To support his education, he worked as an educator, demonstrating an early commitment to public service and community engagement.

In 1866, De Armond relocated to Davenport, Iowa, where he began studying law. He was admitted to the bar in 1867 and commenced his legal practice in Davenport. His career in law laid the foundation for his future political endeavors. In 1869, he moved to Greenfield, Missouri, where he continued to build his legal career and became involved in local politics.

De Armond's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Missouri Senate, serving from 1879 to 1882, representing the 20th district. His political involvement deepened in 1884 when he served as a Presidential Elector, casting his vote for Grover Cleveland. Following this, he held the position of commissioner of the Supreme Court of Missouri in 1885 and served as Judge of the 22nd Judicial Court from 1886 to 1890. These roles not only enhanced his legal expertise but also established him as a significant figure in Missouri politics.

House tenure

David De Armond's tenure in the United States House of Representatives began on March 4, 1891, and lasted until November 23, 1909. Initially, he represented Missouri's 12th congressional district from 1891 to 1893 before transitioning to represent the 6th congressional district from 1893 until the end of his congressional career. Over the course of his ten terms in the House, De Armond became recognized for his legislative contributions and his active participation in various congressional committees.

During his time in Congress, De Armond was a member of several important committees, including the Committee on Rules, the Committee on the Judiciary, and the Joint Committee on Printing. His involvement in these committees allowed him to influence significant legislative matters and engage in the governance of the nation. In the spring of 1908, he was removed from the Committee on Rules and replaced by John J. Fitzgerald, a change that occurred following the appointment of Speaker Joseph Gurney Cannon.

De Armond's legislative focus often revolved around labor law, reflecting his commitment to workers' rights and related issues. He was known for his strong convictions and was sometimes willing to vote against the Democratic Party's positions when they conflicted with his beliefs. This independence of thought and action contributed to his reputation as a Democratic leader during his time in the House. Despite being a favored candidate for higher leadership roles within the party, including Democratic Party Leader and Speaker of the House, he did not attain these positions.

Throughout his congressional career, De Armond was recognized for his eloquence as a public speaker. He often employed humor and sarcasm in his speeches, which contributed to his distinctive style. However, this approach also led to confrontations, such as a notable altercation with fellow Congressman John Sharp Williams in 1907, though neither sustained serious injuries.

Legislative focus and committees

David De Armond's legislative focus was primarily centered on labor law, an area in which he demonstrated a strong commitment to advocating for workers' rights. His tenure in Congress was marked by a willingness to challenge prevailing party lines when necessary, reflecting his dedication to his principles. This independent stance earned him respect among his peers, although it sometimes placed him at odds with the Democratic Party's leadership.

In addition to his work on labor issues, De Armond's involvement in various congressional committees provided him with a platform to influence legislation on a broader scale. His participation in the Committee on Rules, for example, allowed him to engage in the procedural aspects of legislative governance, while his role on the Committee on the Judiciary placed him at the forefront of legal and constitutional matters. His work on the Joint Committee on Printing further exemplified his engagement with the administrative functions of Congress.

Throughout his congressional career, De Armond was involved in significant legislative discussions, including those related to the impeachment of federal judges, such as his participation in the committee deliberating the impeachment of Judge Charles Swayne in 1905. His legal background and experience in the judiciary informed his contributions to these discussions, underscoring his expertise in legal matters.

Despite his significant contributions and leadership potential, De Armond's aspirations for higher office, including a run for the United States Senate in 1902, did not come to fruition. He withdrew his nomination for the Senate, and he was also encouraged to run for governor of Missouri on two occasions, both of which he declined.

David De Armond's life came to an untimely end on November 23, 1909, when he perished in a fire at his home in Butler, Missouri. He was 65 years old at the time of his death. The fire, whose cause remains unknown, also claimed the life of his grandson. De Armond's legacy includes his contributions to labor law and his role as a prominent figure in Missouri's political landscape during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was laid to rest in Oak Hill Cemetery in Butler, leaving behind a family that continued to serve in various public roles.