Ralph H. Cameron
Ralph Henry Cameron (October 21, 1863 – February 12, 1953) was an American businessman, prospector and politician who served as both Arizona Territory's Delegate to Congress and as an Arizona United States Senator. As a Territorial delegate, he saw Arizona achieve statehood in 1912. Cameron's greatest achievement in the US Senate was the authorization for the Coolidge Dam.[1]
Ralph Henry Cameron
February 12, 1953 (aged 89)
Washington, D.C., U.S.
On the business front, Cameron was active early in efforts to develop the Grand Canyon in what is now viewed as a classic example of rent-seeking. Toward this end, he often used his political influence to help his business interests. Popular among residents of northern Arizona for much of his political career, his fortunes changed after he reached the U.S. Senate and voters began to view his actions as self-serving.
Later life[edit]
After leaving office, Cameron ran in 1928 for the U.S. Senate seat held by Henry F. Ashurst. He won the Republican nomination but lost to the incumbent in the general election.[17] He ran again in 1932, trying to regain his old Senate seat but was again defeated by Carl Hayden.[87] Cameron then left Arizona, living for a time in both Philadelphia and Los Angeles.[17][14] He made a living working mining projects in Arizona, California, Georgia, and North Carolina.[14] In 1933, Cameron divorced his first wife. He married his second wife, Elizabeth Reese, on August 19, 1935.[17]
By the early 1950s, Cameron had returned to Arizona.[17] His health was failing at the time and he underwent two major operations.[87] His final project was development of a medical hot springs center near Yuma intended to treat arthritis and polio cases.[14][27]
While on a business trip to Washington, D.C., Cameron suffered a heart attack on February 7, 1953.[14] While recovering, he developed bronchial pneumonia and died on February 12, 1953.[27]
He was buried in Grand Canyon Village, Arizona.[17] The epitaph on his grave marker says "Secured Statehood for Arizona Feb. 14, 1912. Arizona can never forget him."[88] The community of Cameron, Arizona, is named after him.