William Hans Press

William Hans Press (1906 – 1990) was an American businessman and the Executive Vice President of the Greater Washington Board of Trade from 1941 to 1971. Press was notable for being the leading Washington, D.C. figure opposing home rule for the District of Columbia. He and the board maintained opposition to home rule during his years as Executive Vice President. The board came out in favor of home rule after Press retired. The Washington Post wrote in a 1973 article that "many people credit or blame him with almost singlehandedly defeating a home rule measure that seemed a sure thing, with President Johnson's backing, to pass the House in 1965." Press and the board worked to promote the city's cultural and economic life. He spearheaded projects promoting employment, education and economic development. He was also a leader in promoting the lightning growth of Washington's tourism and convention industries.