Ralph Hall Papers

Ralph Moody Hall (1923-2019) was born on May 3, 1923 in Fate, TX to Viola Maude (nee Ball) and Hugh Olin Hall, Sr. He attended public school, graduating from Rockwall High School in 1941. In 1942, Hall joined the Navy, serving as an aircraft carrier pilot and achieving the rank of Lieutenant. After the war, he attended the University of Texas from 1946-1947. He later went on to receive his LL. B from Southern Methodist University, and was admitted to the Texas Bar in 1951. Hall began his career in public service in 1950, serving as County Judge of Rockwall County which he held until 1962. Following his judgeship, he was elected to the State Senate – replacing Senator Ray Roberts (who had won a special election to succeed Sam Rayburn as Congressman from the 4th district). During his time in the State Senate, he served on multiple committees, and was President Pro Tempore of the Senate from 1968-1969. In 1970, he attempted to run for Lieutenant Governor but was barred by the Supreme Court from doing so. In 1972, he tried again – losing the Democratic Primary to Bill Hobby.

In 1980 Hall ran to represent Texas’ 4th District, after Congress Ray Roberts announced his decision to retire. Winning the election, Hall assumed office as Congressman in 1981. In his time in office, Hall served on both the Committee for Space Science and Technology as well as the Committee for Energy and Commerce often as Chair or Ranking member on the committees and respective subcommittees. He was also a founding member of the Blue Dog Democratic Caucus – whose membership comprised House Democrats that were traditionally more moderate or conservative.

In 2004, Hall switched parties, running for reelection to Congress as a Republican. Eight years later in 2012, Hall became the oldest serving member of the House in recorded history. In 2014 Hall, despite having the most votes, failed to achieve the majority needed for the Republican nomination. He subsequently lost the run-off election to John Ratcliffe, leaving office in January 2015.

Hall married Mary Ellen Murphy (1925-2008) in 1944. They have three sons: Hampton, Brett, and Blakeley. Hall has been a lifelong resident of Rockwall, TX.