Born in Martinsburg , West Virginia , Baker established a legal practice in Cleveland after graduating from Washington and Lee University School of Law . He became progressive Democratic ally of Mayor Tom L. Johnson . Baker served as city solicitor of Cleveland from 1901 to 1909 before taking office as mayor in 1912 . As mayor , he sought public transit reform , hospital improvement , and city beautification . Baker supported Woodrow Wilson at the 1912 Democratic National Convention , helping Wilson win the votes of the Ohio delegation . After leaving office , Baker accepted appointment as Secretary of War under President Wilson . He was one of several prominent Georgists appointed to positions in the Wilson Cabinet
1912 Democratic National Convention
1912 Democratic National Convention
Newton D. Baker