Former U.S. House Speaker and longtime West Chester resident John Boehner has received a rare and historic honor from the Supreme Court of Ohio. During a ceremony Wednesday at the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center in Columbus, a bronze bas-relief portrait of Boehner was unveiled in the court’s Grand Concourse Hall of Honor. The dedication marked the first new portrait added to the hall in nearly 100 years. Boehner, who represented Ohio’s 8th Congressional District for nearly 25 years and served as Speaker of the U.S. House from 2011 to 2015, now joins a select group of Ohio leaders recognized for shaping state and national history. Adding another local connection, Ohio Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy — a Butler County native — helped lead the ceremony. Kennedy called the unveiling a significant moment for both Ohio and the nation. She said, “For the first time in almost 100 years, we add a new bronze portrait to the Grand Concourse.” Kennedy said Boehner’s legacy extends beyond politics and includes helping others pursue the American dream. Former Congressman Pat Tiberi served as master of ceremonies, while former Congresswoman Deborah Pryce also spoke in tribute. Pryce praised Boehner’s bipartisan approach, saying he was willing to work with anyone committed to moving the country forward. Tiberi called the honor a permanent statement about Boehner’s place in Ohio history. Born in Cincinnati and raised in a family of 12 children, Boehner rose from working in his father’s tavern to become one of the most powerful political leaders in Washington. In his remarks, Boehner reflected on the honor with gratitude. He said he never imagined his portrait would hang alongside historic Ohio figures like Ulysses S. Grant and Nicholas Longworth. Boehner thanked family, friends, and colleagues who supported him throughout his career, calling the recognition deeply meaningful. The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the bronze portrait and a reception celebrating Boehner’s legacy of public service.
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(Image Courtesy: Ohio Supreme Court)
