Lewis Francis Byington (May 24, 1868 – May 7, 1943) was an American lawyer, author, and Democratic Party politician who served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors (1898–1900) and as District Attorney of San Francisco (1900–1905).

Early life and education

Byington was born on May 24, 1868, in Downieville, California. He was the son of Robert Lewis Byington and Catherine Freehill Byington. Byington went to public school in Downieville. He graduated from Santa Clara College, now the University of Santa Clara. In 1887, he graduated from the University of California Hastings College of the Law. He subsequently practiced law in San Francisco.

Career

Lewis Byington was a member of the California bar. He practiced in the Supreme Court and Federal Courts of California.

California legislature

On August 31, 1877, Byington was elected to the California State Assembly for the 24 district for Serra and Nevada Counties.

San Francisco government

In 1898, Byington was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. On November 8, 1899, he was elected San Francisco District Attorney, serving from 1900 until 1905. As District Attorney, he prosecuted the murderer Cordelia Botkin. He was re-elected twice. Byington was president of the San Francisco Civil Service Commission under Mayor James Rolph.

Private life and affiliations

Byington was unmarried. In retirement, he made his home in San Francisco. He was vice president of the California Historic Landmarks League and served as president of the Native Sons of the Golden West (NSGW). On September 15, 1912, Byington acted as chairman of the ceremonies during the dedication of the new NSGW building. He addressed the audience during the dedication, describing the history and challenges of its completion.

Death

On May 7, 1943, Byington died of pneumonia at Stanford Hospital in San Francisco. He was buried at the Holy Cross Mausoleum.

Publications

Byington wrote the following books: