Hallie B. Balkum

Hoe B. Balkum was one of the first women in Texas to be elected to political office. Balkum was elected Clerk of the District Court for San Jacinto County in 1904. She was first appointed to the office by Judge Hightower to fill the remainder of her father's term in office.  In February of 1904 she announced her candidacy for the office. Questions were raised by her candidacy, asking if non voters could hold elected office.