Rufus Hardy (December 16, 1855 – March 13, 1943) was a United States representative of the Democratic Party from the state of Texas. Early years Hardy was born Monroe County, Mississippi to George Washington and Pauline J. (Whittaker) Hardy. The family moved to Millican, Texas in 1861. Hardy enrolled at Somerville Institute in Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871, and received his L.L.B. from the University of Georgia in 1875. In 1876, he opened his law practice in Navasota, Texas, and moved to Corsicana, Texas in 1878. Career in public service From 1880 to 1884 he served as a prosecuting attorney of Navarro County, Texas. He served as District Attorney for the Texas 13th Judicial District 1884–1888, and as District Judge of the same district 1888–1896. Hardy was represented Texas in the United States House of Representatives 1907–1923. Upon retirement from Congress, Hardy returned to private practice in Corsicana. Personal life In 1881, Hardy was married to Felicia E. Peck. He died in Corsicana on March 13, 1943 and is buried in Oakwood Cemetery. Mrs. Hardy followed him in death just 17 days later and is buried by his side. Fraternal memberships Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Knights of Pythias Phi Delta Theta Bibliography References External links 1855 births 1943 deaths People from Monroe County, Mississippi People from Corsicana, Texas County district attorneys in Texas Texas state court judges University of Georgia alumni Democratic Party members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas People from Brazos County, Texas