Robert B. Hawley

Biography

Born in 1849, Robert B. Hawley became a respected Texas businessman whose energy and pragmatism helped nurture the commercial life of Houston and its surrounding towns. He was known for his ability to bridge agricultural interests with the growing transportation networks of the late nineteenth century.

Hawley carried that same sense of stewardship to Washington, where he served as a U.S. Representative at the turn of the century and advocated for policies that supported cotton growers and small shippers. Even after leaving office, he remained active in civic causes, working to strengthen public schools and charitable organizations throughout his community.