HIPOLITO FRANK GARCIA III was born on December 4th, 1925 to Francisca and Hipolito Garcia II in San Antonio, Texas. The Garcia family came from generations of ranchers in Coahuila, Mexico and later to Chef and certified baker of the Menger Hotel in San Antonio, Texas [1] Joan Cook Carabin, Three Hipolitos and Where They Came From, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 1 (2014). . Hipolito Frank Garcia III is recognized as The Honorable Judge Hippo Garcia who left a legacy of service, advocacy, and lifelong learning.
Hipolito III was born and raised in the historic San Antonio Lavaca neighborhood [2] Joan Cook Carabin, Three Hipolitos and Where They Came From, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 4 (2014). . He attended Burnet Elementary School from 1932 to 1937. Hipolito experienced a language barrier in school. His primary language used to communicate with his parents at home was Spanish. Later, he went to Edgar Allen Poe Jr School from 1937 to 1939 [3] Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 8 (2014). . For high school Garcia chose Brackenridge high school over Fox Tech where all his brothers attended. At Brackenridge High School, Hipolito participated in Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). He also served as the treasurer of the Pan American Club at his high school [4] Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 10 (2014). . Hippo was an outstanding and motivated student. Although he mostly spoke Spanish at home and struggled in elementary school, by the time he was in high school he was fluent in English and a successful student. His perfect attendance and hard work earned him his high school diploma in just six semesters instead of the typical four years [5] Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 10-13 (2014). .
Despite being an avid reader and determined student, his teachers never recognized his potential throughout his public education. He was never considered nor qualified for the National Honor Society or Sigma Epsilon Society. Hippo graduated with perfect attendance from Brackenridge High school May 28, 1943 [6] Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 10 (2014). .
About seven months after graduation, Hipolito enlisted in the United States Army. His basic training took place at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. He experienced a drastic change from Brackenridge to formal training for war. Training consisted of early mornings, physical training, work, sports, etc. In training, Hippo was expected to follow directions and use physical strength to be successful, unlike being in school where he focused on being analytical and creative. Unlike his time at home where he was able to be alone and read for pleasure, Hippo had to learn about teamwork and the buddy system for his own protection and other soldiers [7] Joan Cook Carabin, The World Opens Up, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 17 (2014). .
After completing formal training, Garcia transferred to the 3rd armored spearhead division of fighting in France and Germany (WWII). He entered war as a M4 Sherman tank driver, where he was responsible for his own safety and the other soldiers inside. Being a part of the Spearhead Division gave Hippo the opportunity to be a part of some major accomplishments. They were the first to cross the Belgian border in 1944, first to achieve greatest one-day mobile warfare advance (101 miles), and the first to capture major German city Cologne in 1945 just to name a few accomplishments [8] Joan Cook Carabin, The World Opens Up, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 19 (2014). . This new team dynamic and dangerous environment of war changed Hippo. He was able to move away from his shyness and move toward individuals that were brave and smart. After the death of his commander, Major General Maurice Rose, Hippo decided to lead a life of service. He didn’t know what this would look like but, he chose to live by it anyways .
Hippo was discharged May 19, 1946 after World War II ended in 1945. About four months later, Hippo took advantage of the GI Bill and registered at St. Mary’s University. The GI Bill served as financial aid for tuition, fees, and books. Despite his bravery and shift away from shyness, Hippo was remembered as a quiet student. During his time as a student, he worked part time selling shoes and cleaning a car dealership [9] Joan Cook Carabin, The World Opens Up, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 20 (2014). .
After two years at St. Mary’s Hippo followed his friend Roy Barrera Sr. in transferring to the St. Mary’s Law School. Just like his experience in high school, professors did not recognize his potential. Little did they know that Hippo would be an elected judge. Garcia graduated from Law School in 1951 with his LLB at 26 years old [10] Erika Haskins, Garcia, Hipolito Frank [Hippo], Texas State Historical Association (2019), https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/garcia-hipolito-frank-hippo..
Right after law school Hippo worked in the District Clerk’s office. Despite the stable work and experience, Hippo recognized this job was holding him back from doing the work of an attorney. With the encouragement of his friend Roy Barrera Sr., Hippo applied and was hired with the District Attorney’s Office in San Antonio [11] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 25 (2014). .
Although Hippo was insecure before taking the job, he eventually proved himself. Hippo received five promotions within his first eight years in the DA office. He served as the First Assistant District Attorney and the Chief Prosecutor of the office. Friends and colleagues of Hippo described him as the original “little boy who could” as he pushed himself to learn English and pushed himself through law school [12] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 26 (2014). . Hippo worked in the District Attorney’s office from 1952 to 1964 (27 years of age to 39) [13] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 36 (2014). .
After a successful career in the DA office and overseeing the prosecution of many cases, Hippo decided to leave. He was invited to join a law firm with Phil Chavarria and Crawford Reeder. Hippo accepted this offer and had a successful practice—many clients gravitated toward him. Despite his success, Hippo felt this private practice was becoming another safe place just like the District Clerk’s office. He reflected on his previously discovered mission to serve others. By the end of his first and only year in private practice, he realized he belonged back in government work. Hippo felt this was the only place where could serve anyone and everyone [14] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 28 (2014). .
Hippo Garcia was known as a tough prosecutor for the Bexar County District Attorney’s office. He sought justice for all victims of crime. This attitude and willingness to serve the people led to his election as judge. In 1964, Hippo Garcia was elected interim Judge at the Bexar County Court-at-Law #2 [15] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 28 (2014). . Garcia was selected as the new Democratic Nominee for Judge when Judge Charles Grace resigned, leaving a vacancy. During the ceremony presenting Garcia with the black judicial robe, Hippo said he would, “do everything in my power to operate this court in a fair and impartial manner, and, I hope, with dignity.” Judge Hippo Garcia proved to live this out during his time in the courts. Other attorneys and colleagues described his talent for being just and swift. Judge John Primomo said, “Hippo showed great respect for everyone in the court: criminals, victims, judges, and attorneys…He was gifted in recognizing right from wrong.” [16] Ch.4 PDF. Hippo was a great listener and studied any and all information that was presented to him in court for every person and case. He made sure to consider every detail before sentencing [17] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 30 (2014). .
After a decade in the Bexar County Court at Law #2, Judge Garcia tried to move up in the court system. He tried to get appointed but was passed over several times. In 1974, another opportunity arose when Judge Archie Brown retired from the 144th Judicial District Court. Hippo entered the Democratic primary unopposed to fill the vacancy. Garcia was elected in the general election and held the position for five years [18] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 32 (2014). .
In this court, Judge Garcia presided over felony cases. Hippo sentenced people from a couple of years to life sentences to death sentences. His time in the district court also consisted of hearing over both civil and criminal federal cases. Hippo proved to be an agent of change. Aware of the areas of improvement in the legal system, Hippo and the Bexar County Grand Jury pushed for reform. Judge Hippo Garcia approved and pushed forward the changes requested by the grand jury: consistency in the size of bonds for the same type of offenses, uniformity in sentences for the same type of crimes, information on how to make bonds in Spanish and English, an educational program on the penal code for students and parents [19] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 34 (2014). . Judge Garcia served in the 144th Judicial District Court until 1979.
1980 proved to be a big year for Hippo. On March 29, 1980, Judge Garcia was presented the Outstanding Alumnus Award by St. Mary’s Law School. Garcia was recognized by the institution on the annual Law Day Celebration for his contributions to the justice system. Garcia began the long process of being appointed to a federal position in 1980 [20] Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 38 (2014). . He was first recommended for the federal appointment by U.S. Representative Henry B. Gonzalez. Hippo waited patiently for his confirmation to the Federal Court Western District of Texas.
The federal position opened when Judge John H. Woods was murdered in 1979. The process to replace the federal judge lasted almost two years after his death. President Jimmy Carter eventually appointed H.F. Garcia and the U.S. Senate approved the appointment [21] Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 41 (2014). .
October 17, 1981, Judge H.F. Garcia was sworn into the U.S. District Court Western Division of Texas. Garcia was the first Mexican-American Federal Judge of this district that stretched from San Antonio to El Paso [22] Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 43 (2014). . Staying true to his life of service and learning, Garcia hired all new people for his office. Hippo explained, “I do not want someone coming in telling us what to do. I want all of us to learn this together.” Garcia brought with him and hired friends and colleagues like John Primomo, Carmen Barrera Ramirez, Marilyn Primomo, and Mark Dietz [23] Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 44 (2014). .
Judge Garcia even allowed students from Brackenridge High School to do their internships in his office. He invited these students to attend his trials to practice writing outlines for the court proceedings that took place. Although Judge Garcia could not provide the students with work, he still made a place of learning for them. Hippo, political science teachers, and attorneys created mock trials for the students [24] Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 44 (2014). . His life and time as a federal judge showed his care for the education of the youth and their success. This advocacy for children and youth was present in his practice as a federal judge. Hippo was lenient with criminals who he knew would improve their lives. However, he was firm with those who were in the business of corrupting the youth or harming them [25] Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 45-46 (2014). . Judge H.F. Garcia served as a federal judge for 20 years until his death in 2002 [26] Joan Cook Carabin, The Longest Short Day, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 51 (2014). .
Only about one month before his death Judge Garcia said to his family and friends, “Jimmy Carter appointed me for life, and I took him at his word.” [27] Joan Cook Carabin, The Longest Short Day, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 51 (2014). . Judge Garcia created a legacy of service and learning. Three funerals were held to commemorate Hippo. The first was a wake in the San Fernando Cathedral, the second a formal funeral at the San Fernando Cathedral, and the third was a state funeral in Austin, Texas. Judge Garcia’s wish to be buried near Barbara Jordan (the first black state senator since 1883) was granted [28] Joan Cook Carabin, The Longest Short Day, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 54 (2014). .. Today, the first federal building and United States Courthouse in Bexar County on 615 E. Houston Street is named after Judge H.F. Garcia.
References
| ↑1 | Joan Cook Carabin, Three Hipolitos and Where They Came From, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 1 (2014). |
|---|---|
| ↑2 | Joan Cook Carabin, Three Hipolitos and Where They Came From, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 4 (2014). |
| ↑3 | Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 8 (2014). |
| ↑4, ↑6 | Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 10 (2014). |
| ↑5 | Joan Cook Carabin, School Days at Burnet, Poe, and Brackenridge, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 10-13 (2014). |
| ↑7 | Joan Cook Carabin, The World Opens Up, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 17 (2014). |
| ↑8 | Joan Cook Carabin, The World Opens Up, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 19 (2014). |
| ↑9 | Joan Cook Carabin, The World Opens Up, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 20 (2014). |
| ↑10 | Erika Haskins, Garcia, Hipolito Frank [Hippo], Texas State Historical Association (2019), https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/garcia-hipolito-frank-hippo. |
| ↑11 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 25 (2014). |
| ↑12 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 26 (2014). |
| ↑13 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 36 (2014). |
| ↑14, ↑15 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 28 (2014). |
| ↑16 | Ch.4 PDF. |
| ↑17 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 30 (2014). |
| ↑18 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 32 (2014). |
| ↑19 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 34 (2014). |
| ↑20 | Joan Cook Carabin, Hippo’s Calling, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 38 (2014). |
| ↑21 | Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 41 (2014). |
| ↑22 | Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 43 (2014). |
| ↑23, ↑24 | Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 44 (2014). |
| ↑25 | Joan Cook Carabin, Two Streets Away, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 45-46 (2014). |
| ↑26, ↑27 | Joan Cook Carabin, The Longest Short Day, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 51 (2014). |
| ↑28 | Joan Cook Carabin, The Longest Short Day, in One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia 54 (2014). |
