James Luther Slayden

James Luther Slayden (June 1, 1853 – February 24, 1924) was an American politician, cotton merchant, and rancher. He was elected from San Antonio to United States House of Representatives, serving eleven consecutive terms. He returned to New Orleans in 1873, where he worked until he moved to Texas in November 1876. He worked to develop trade between Texas and other areas, and the construction railroads in Texas. After serving in the state legislature from January 10, to January 8, 1893, he declined renomination and returned to ranching.

When he left Congress in 1919, Slayden kept busy with mines in Mexico, a ranch in Texas, and an orchard in Virginia.

Personal life In 1883, he married Ellen Maury who was from Charlottesville, Virginia. They had no children. In 1889, Ellen worked for the San Antonio Express as the society editor. After Slayden's election to Congress, they moved to Washington, D.C. in 1896.

In October 1910, Slayden became one of the first trustees of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. He was also president of the American Peace Society. He was active in various fraternal organizations, including the Elks, the Masons, and the Odd Fellows. In addition, he was an Episcopalian.

In 1924, he died in San Antonio at the age of 70. He was buried in Mission Park Cemetery.