Everette Howard

Everette Howard was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Oklahoma's 1st congressional district. A member of the Democratic Party, Howard's congressional career spanned a decade from 1919 to 1929, during which he was elected to three separate terms in the House of Representatives. His political journey was preceded by a diverse career in business and public service, which included roles in the manufacturing sector and state government. Howard's contributions to Oklahoma's political landscape were shaped by his experiences in various industries and his commitment to public affairs.

Early life and career

Everette Burgess Howard was born on September 19, 1873, in Morgantown, Kentucky. He was the son of Addison A. Howard and Addie P. Harreld Howard. Growing up in Kentucky, Howard received his education in the public school system, where he developed a foundational skill set that would serve him throughout his life. He learned the art of printing, which led him to engage in newspaper work across several states, including Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Missouri. This early exposure to journalism likely contributed to his understanding of public opinion and communication, skills that would prove valuable in his later political career.

In 1895, Howard married Hollis Hope in Missouri, and the couple had one son, Paxton. The family eventually moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1905, where Howard transitioned into the business sector. In Tulsa, he became involved in the manufacture of brick and the production of oil and gas, industries that were vital to the economic development of Oklahoma during the early 20th century. His work in these sectors not only provided him with financial stability but also positioned him as a significant figure in the burgeoning oil industry, which would later play a crucial role in the state's economy.

Howard's public service career began in earnest when he was appointed to the State Board of Public Affairs, where he served from 1911 to 1915. This role allowed him to gain valuable experience in governance and public administration. Following this position, he was elected as the State Auditor of Oklahoma, serving from 1915 until 1919. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the state, further solidifying his reputation as a capable public servant.

House tenure

Howard's entry into national politics came when he was elected as a Democrat to the Sixty-sixth Congress, representing Oklahoma's 1st congressional district. His first term began on March 4, 1919, and concluded on March 3, 1921. During this initial term, Howard worked on various issues pertinent to his constituents and the nation, although specific legislative actions from this period are not detailed in the available records.

After losing his bid for reelection in 1920 to the Sixty-seventh Congress, Howard returned to the political arena and was elected to the Sixty-eighth Congress, serving from March 4, 1923, to March 3, 1925. His ability to regain a seat in Congress demonstrated his resilience and continued support from his constituents. Following this term, Howard chose not to seek renomination in 1924 but instead pursued the Democratic nomination for a seat in the U.S. Senate. Although this attempt was unsuccessful, it underscored his ongoing ambition within the political landscape.

Howard's political career continued with his election to the Seventieth Congress, where he served from March 4, 1927, to March 3, 1929. This term marked his final period in the House of Representatives. After his tenure, he did not seek reelection in 1928, concluding a decade of service in Congress. Throughout his time in the House, Howard was involved in various legislative discussions and decisions, reflecting the interests and needs of his constituents in Oklahoma.

Following his departure from Congress, Howard returned to the private sector, where he resumed his work in the oil and gas industry in both Oklahoma and Texas. His experience in business and politics likely provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of industry and governance, which would have been particularly relevant during a time when the oil industry was rapidly expanding in the region.

Legislative focus and committees

While specific details regarding Howard's legislative focus and committee assignments during his time in Congress are not extensively documented, it can be inferred that his background in business and public service informed his approach to governance. As a representative from Oklahoma, a state rich in natural resources, it is likely that Howard was involved in discussions related to the oil and gas industry, infrastructure development, and economic policies aimed at benefiting his constituents.

Howard's experience as State Auditor and his work on the State Board of Public Affairs would have equipped him with a strong understanding of fiscal responsibility and public administration, which are critical components of legislative work. His background in manufacturing and resource production may have also influenced his views on economic development and job creation, particularly in a state that was undergoing significant changes during the early 20th century.

After his congressional career, Howard continued to engage in the oil and gas sector, which remained a pivotal industry in Oklahoma and Texas. His return to business after public service reflects a common trajectory for many politicians who seek to leverage their political experience in the private sector.

Everette Howard passed away on April 3, 1950, in Midland, Texas. He was interred at Memorial Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. His life and career reflect the complexities of early 20th-century American politics, particularly in a state that was experiencing rapid growth and transformation. Howard's contributions to Oklahoma's political landscape and his involvement in key industries of the time underscore the interconnectedness of business and governance in shaping the region's development.