Every so often, County Progress asks our distinguished Judges and Commissioners to allow us a glimpse into their public lives, giving us a fresh appreciation for the myriad of roles and responsibilities they shoulder every day. Our thanks to Navarro County Judge H.M. Davenport Jr. for taking the time to visit with us.
HISTORY:
My family moved to Corsicana when I was 1 year old. I graduated from high school in 1966, received my associate’s degree from Navarro Junior College in 1968, and graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1970 with a bachelor of business administration – management major, economics minor. That same year, I married my high school sweetheart, Carole, and joined my dad in the excavation business.
I worked with my dad for 18 years; I then bought him out, worked the business another 18 years, and decided to run for County Judge. I won my election in 2006 and took office in January 2007. I am now in my fourth term as County Judge.
Carole and I have raised two daughters, and we now have five grandchildren. Since my school days, I have played drums/percussion with several bands: country, rock, swing, theater musicals, orchestras, and church. I have to keep a day job to support my music habit!
My hobbies include ranching, hunting, fishing, being with family/grandchildren, traveling when we can, theater, and, of course, music of various venues. I am thankful for my life at home on the ranch in the evenings and on weekends.
TYPICAL DAY:
My usual day involves driving the 8 miles into Corsicana from our ranch home in the country, walking a block or more to the courthouse (it’s good for me), and either dealing with matters in my courtroom, in Commissioners Court, or other venues that require problem-solving. I frequently attend luncheons, meetings, grand openings, and plays. I also take in music shows at our restored palace theater where the pros perform, or the Warehouse Living Arts Theater where local talent takes the stage. I also respond to invitations to events in the smaller towns in the county.
IS IT WHAT YOU EXPECTED?
For the most part, being a County Judge is exactly what I expected: “stomping out fires” (addressing and solving problems) as they spring up. However, it is more than just that. I really enjoy courtroom work and the people I work with. I also appreciate all the other things I get to do as County Judge including economic development and working with the city of Corsicana, promoting Navarro County, and dealing with people on a daily basis.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE:
When I took office, my biggest challenges included adjusting to courtroom proceedings, the ways and means of dealing with trials, making the correct decisions on objections, etc. I became comfortable with these proceedings within the first year or so. Another challenge was the restoration of our 1905 courthouse and all of the decisions and details for moving out, carrying on court business as usual in rented spaces, dealing with change orders, and responding to issues as they continued to arise within the process. We returned to a stunningly beautiful courthouse that should last another 100 years, with proper maintenance, of course.
FAVORITE PART OF BEING A COUNTY JUDGE:
I think my favorite part of this job is the respect I receive as a Judge, which holds me accountable to do the best job possible. I also enjoy knowing that I, acting on behalf of my generation, have made a positive difference in Navarro County government, in our courts, and in our community.