Frederick C. Hicks

Frederick C. Hicks was an American attorney, politician, and naval officer who served as a United States Representative from New York. A member of the Republican Party, he represented the state's 1st congressional district for four terms during the early 20th century. His career was notably interrupted by active military service during World War I, where he served as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy.

Early life and education

Frederick C. Hicks was born on March 6, 1872, in Westbury, New York, on Long Island. He pursued his higher education at Yale University, where he was a member of the Skull and Bones society, graduating in 1894. Following his undergraduate studies, he attended New York Law School, where he earned his Bachelor of Laws degree and was admitted to the state bar in 1897. He subsequently commenced the practice of law in New York City, establishing a foundation for his future careers in both politics and public service.

Legal and political career

After establishing his legal practice, Hicks became involved in local politics within Nassau County, New York. He served as a member of the New York State Assembly from 1909 to 1914, representing the county's 1st district. In 1914, he was elected as a Republican to the 64th United States Congress, defeating the incumbent Democrat Lathrop Brown. Hicks was subsequently re-elected to the 65th, 66th, and 67th Congresses, serving from March 4, 1915, until March 3, 1923. During his tenure in the United States Capitol, he served on several committees, including the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Naval service and World War I

Following the American entry into World War I in 1917, Hicks sought active military duty. He resigned his seat in the House of Representatives and was commissioned as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy. He served with distinction in the Atlantic Fleet, primarily engaged in anti-submarine warfare and convoy protection duties against the German U-boat threat. His service connected his political work on the Naval Affairs Committee with direct operational experience. He was honorably discharged in 1919 and returned to resume his congressional duties.

Later career and death

After choosing not to seek re-election in 1922, Hicks returned to his legal practice. He remained active in veterans' affairs and political organizations following the end of his legislative career. Hicks died suddenly on December 14, 1925, in Washington, D.C. He was interred in a family plot in Westbury, New York, his birthplace. His death was noted in the Congressional Record and by contemporary newspapers such as The New York Times.

Legacy and honors

Frederick C. Hicks is remembered for his unique dual service in the United States Congress and the United States Navy. His commitment to naval policy, informed by his wartime service, left a mark on the legislative oversight of the United States Department of the Navy. His papers are held in archival collections related to Long Island history. The town of Westbury, New York, commemorates his life as a notable local figure who served in both the New York State Legislature and the federal government.

Category:1872 births Category:1925 deaths Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives from New York (state) Category:New York (state) lawyers Category:United States Navy officers of World War I