Tomas G. Pollard, Sr.
Tyler, Smith County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1895-1962) Tomas G. Pollard was an attorney and legislator whose work improved the lives of East Texans. While in college, Pollard married Edna Martin, with whom he reared three children, and was elected as a state representative (1919-21). After being elected as state senator in 1921, Pollard sponsored legislation that focused on education, small businesses, oil and gas production, and consumer protection; he also chaired the Senate's Finance Committee and was elected president pro-tem in 1927. After retiring from office in 1935, Pollard reestablished a civil law practice in Tyler. In 1970, Pollard's family donated property for a park named in his honor. (2009)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Tomas G. Pollard was a Tyler attorney and lawmaker whose career reshaped life for East Texans. Elected a state representative while still in college and a state senator in 1921, he sponsored legislation on education, small business, oil and gas, and consumer protection, chairing the Senate Finance Committee and serving as president pro tem in 1927. After leaving office in 1935 he returned to law practice, and in 1970 his family donated land for a park in his honor.
Why it matters
Pollard's legislative record reflects the Progressive-era conviction that state government could actively improve schooling, commerce, and the protection of ordinary citizens.
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Related people
- · Tomas G. Pollard
- · Edna Martin Pollard
Themes & tags
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