Zeno J. Rives

Zeno John Rives (February 22, 1874 – September 2, 1939) was an American politician and lawyer. A Republican, he was a member of the United States House of Representatives from Illinois.

Biography

Rives was born on February 22, 1874, in Greenfield, Indiana, the son of Alfred J. Rives and Lettice S. (née Heath) Rives. His father worked as a ditcher and later as a cleaner.

After schooling, Rives worked odd jobs. and on October 12, 1901, was admitted to the bar, after which he began practicing law in Litchfield. Until 1904, he was partnered with P. A. Willhite. In June or August 1903, he was made city clerk. He spent $25 on his campaign. He also bet $100 that he would lose the election, which had to repay after winning. he stood at and weighed .

After serving in Congress, Rives returned to practicing law in Litchfield. From 1912 to 1916, he was the city's postmaster. In 1919, he moved to Decatur, where he practiced and managed real estate. He was Presbyterian, as well as a member of the Knights of Pythias. He died on September 2, 1939, aged 65, in Decatur, and was buried at Graceland Cemetery.