Robert Bacon

Robert Bacon was an American politician, banker, and military officer who served as a U.S. Representative for New York's 1st congressional district from 1923 until his death in 1938. A member of the Republican Party, Bacon is notably recognized for his role in the authorship of the Davis–Bacon Act of 1931, which established wage regulations for workers on federal projects. Throughout his political career, he maintained a strong presence in Congress, contributing to various legislative efforts and serving on multiple committees.

Early life and career

Robert Low Bacon was born on July 23, 1884, in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. He was the son of Martha Waldron Cowdin and Robert Bacon, who later became the Secretary of State. Bacon received a common school education during his childhood, which laid the foundation for his future academic pursuits. He graduated from Harvard University in 1907 and subsequently earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1910.

Following his education, Bacon began his professional career at the United States Treasury Department, where he worked until 1911. He then transitioned to the banking sector, moving to Old Westbury, New York, to engage in banking activities in New York City. His involvement in banking coincided with his military service, which began in 1915 when he attended a business men's training camp at Plattsburgh. In 1916, he served with the New York National Guard along the Texas border.

Bacon's military career continued during World War I, where he served in the Field Artillery of the United States Army from April 24, 1917, until January 2, 1919. He achieved the rank of major and was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions during the war. Following the war, he was commissioned in the United States Officers' Reserve Corps, initially as a lieutenant colonel and later promoted to colonel in January 1923, a position he held until his death.

In addition to his military and banking careers, Bacon was politically active and served as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in Chicago in 1920. His entry into politics was marked by his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1922, after Frederick C. Hicks opted not to seek re-election. Bacon faced S.A. Warner Baltazzi in the election and emerged victorious, beginning his congressional career as a member of the House.

House tenure

Bacon's tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives began in 1923 and continued until his death in 1938, spanning a total of eight terms. He was known for his alignment with the Republican Party and identified as a "wet," meaning he opposed Prohibition. Throughout his congressional career, he faced minimal opposition, with the 1932 election being one of his most challenging races. In that election, he competed against Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, a fellow Long Island resident, in a contest that was marked by personal animosities and the broader political context of Franklin D. Roosevelt's landslide victory that year. Despite these challenges, Bacon successfully retained his seat.

During his time in Congress, Bacon was involved in various legislative initiatives, with a particular focus on labor and wage issues. His most significant legislative achievement was the introduction and eventual passage of the Davis–Bacon Act in 1931. This act was designed to ensure that workers on federal projects were paid fair wages, addressing concerns that cheaper labor from outside areas was undermining local job opportunities during the Great Depression. Bacon's advocacy for this legislation demonstrated his commitment to labor rights and economic fairness.

Bacon's political career was characterized by his ability to navigate the complexities of the legislative process and his dedication to the needs of his constituents. He was known for his engagement with various issues affecting New Yorkers and for his efforts to represent the interests of his district effectively.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Bacon served on several committees that shaped his legislative priorities and focus. His work on labor-related issues, particularly in relation to the Davis–Bacon Act, highlighted his commitment to ensuring fair wages for workers engaged in federal projects. This legislation not only had a lasting impact on labor standards but also reflected the economic challenges of the era.

In addition to labor issues, Bacon was a vocal supporter of the repeal of Prohibition. He introduced a proposal to amend the 18th Amendment, which would have allowed states to regulate alcohol. Although this amendment did not pass, Bacon's efforts were part of a broader movement that ultimately led to the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.

Bacon's legislative focus extended beyond labor and alcohol regulation, as he engaged with various issues pertinent to his constituents and the nation. His ability to address a range of topics and navigate the political landscape of the time contributed to his standing as a prominent figure in the House of Representatives.

Bacon's tenure in Congress came to an end with his death on September 12, 1938, due to a heart attack. He passed away near the State Police barracks in Lake Success, New York, while returning home from a speaking engagement in New York City. At the time of his death, he was 54 years old. He is interred at Arlington National Cemetery, marking the end of a significant career in public service and military service. Bacon's contributions to American politics, particularly in labor legislation, continue to be recognized as part of his legacy.