Hubbard, Richard Bennett

(1832-1901) Georgia native Richard Bennett Hubbard came to Texas in 1853 and set up a law practice in Tyler with B. T. Selman, later a state senator. Politically active, Hubbard became a leading spokesman for the Democratic Party. His early career in government included service as U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, 1857-59, and state legislator, 1859-61. At the outbreak of the Civil War Hubbard raised a battalion, which later became the 22nd Texas Infantry Regiment. He was the only colonel of the unit, which participated in the 1864 Battle of Mansfield, La., as well as other skirmishes. After the war he returned to Tyler but found his law practice restricted by the Reconstruction government. As a result, he turned his attention to railroads and was instrumental in the early development of area rail lines. Hubbard was elected lieutenant governor of Texas in 1873. Three years later he became governor when Richard Coke resigned the office to serve as U. S. Senator. An ambassador to Japan in the administration of President Grover Cleveland, Hubbard was noted for his oratorical ability and his devotion to public service. His leadership was instrumental in Texas' growth during the latter part of the 19th century.

Hubbard, Richard Bennett is a historical marker in Tyler, Smith County, dedicated in 1982. It is one of 90 historical markers documented in Smith County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 272 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 32.3542, -95.3084 near Tyler. The nearest cataloged historic site is Donley, Judge Stockton (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Oakwood Cemetery, St. James Colored Methodist Episcopal Church (Demolished c.2023), and First Baptist Church of Tyler.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5423007736. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.