David A. De Armond

David Albaugh De Armond (March 18, 1844 – November 23, 1909) was an American lawyer and politician. A Democrat, he was a member of the United States House of Representatives from Missouri. He was noted among the Democrats in Congress and was a favorite to become both Democratic Party Leader and Speaker of the House, though was elected to neither office.

Early life and education De Armond was born on March 18, 1844, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the eldest of six children born to James De Armond and Catherine (née Albaugh) De Armond. He was or Irish and Dutch descent. Educated at public schools in Altoone. He graduated from Lycoming College in 1886, and subsidized his tuition by working as an educator. Also in 1866, he moved to Davenport, Iowa. There, he studied law, and in 1867, was admitted to the bar, after which he practiced in Davenport.

Career In 1869, De Armond moved to Greenfield, Missouri. In 1884, he was a Presidential Elector who voted for Grover Cleveland. In spring 1908, he was removed from the Committee on Rules and replaced by John J. Fitzgerald, following the appointment of Speaker Joseph Gurney Cannon. In 1905, he was part committee which deliberated the impeachment of judge Charles Swayne.

Politically, De Armond was liberal, and specialized in labor law. He was uncompromising in his beliefs, at times vote in opposition to the Democratic Party to stand for himself. He was described as a Democratic leader during his tenure. He was a favorite to become Democratic Party Leader and Speaker of the House, though was elected to neither office. He was a strong public speaker, often employing humor and sarcasm in his speeches. His sarcasm caused a fight between he and John Sharp Williams in 1907, neither being badly injured as a result.

Personal life and death De Armond was married to Alice M. Long, with whom he had four children. He and his grandson were killed in the fire, as they had been asleep on a balcony on the second story of the house and were trapped. The origin of the fire was unknown. Its damages were estimated at $20,000. He was buried on November 26, in Oak Hill Cemetery, in Butler. His son, David Jr., served as adjutant general of Missouri and Mayor of Butler. Another son was military officer Edward Harrison DeArmond.