James W. Hughes

James W. Hughes was born in Washington, D.C. He graduated from the United States College of Veterinary Surgeons in 1918 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.[1] He graduated from the Washington College of Law in 1928.[1]

Following graduation, Hughes opened a veterinary practice in Amendale, Prince George's County, Maryland. He was an instructor at Washington College's veterinary school.[1] In 1929, Hughes moved to Elkton and opened law offices. He also served as a member of the University of Maryland extension staff in Cecil County.[1]

Hughes was a Republican. Hughes was a member of the Maryland Senate, representing Cecil County, from 1943 to 1947.[1][2] Hughes ran for re-election in 1946, but lost to Guy Johnson.[3] In 1951, Hughes was appointed police magistrate by Governor Theodore McKeldin. Due to ill health, he resigned from the post in 1954.[1]

Hughes was an editor and publisher of the Cecil Whig. In 1947, Hughes purchased the Cecil Whig and The Midland Journal.[1][4] Hughes was a member of the board of the Seventh Day Adventist Hospital in Wytheville, Virginia, and president of the board of the Union Hospital. In 1944, he led a campaign to fund a new building at Union Hospital.[1]

Hughes married Gertrude Ruth Tyrrell in 1930.[1][5][6] Hughes was an elder of the Seventh Day Adventist Church for 30 years.[1]

Hughes died on November 8, 1955, at the age of 57, at Union Hospital in Elkton. He was buried at Gilpin Manor Cemetery.[1][6]