William H. West: The 'Blind Man Eloquent' of Ohio's Legal and Political Arenas​

William Henry West (1824–1911) was a prominent figure in Ohio's legal and political history, renowned for his eloquence and resilience. Born in Millsboro, Pennsylvania, West moved to Ohio in 1830, where he pursued education and later graduated from Jefferson College in 1846. He began his career as a teacher before studying law under Judge William Lawrence in Bellefontaine, Ohio, eventually becoming his partner. ​

West's political journey commenced with his election as Logan County's prosecuting attorney in 1852. A pivotal moment in his career was his role in founding the

Republican Party in Ohio in 1854. He served in both the Ohio House of Representatives and the State Senate, and was elected as Ohio's Attorney General in 1865, serving two terms. In 1871, he ascended to the Ohio Supreme Court but resigned due to deteriorating eyesight. ​

​Despite his blindness, West remained active in law and politics. In 1877, he was the Republican nominee for Ohio governor, and in 1884, he delivered a notable speech nominating James G. Blaine for the presidency at the Republican National Convention. His powerful oratory earned him the moniker "Blind Man Eloquent." 

West continued practicing law until his retirement at age 80. He passed away in 1911 in Bellefontaine, Ohio, where a historical marker at the Logan County Courthouse commemorates his contributions.