Edward Wallis Hoch (March 17, 1849 – June 1, 1925)[1] was an American newspaper editor, politician and the 17th Governor of Kansas.

[2] He left college before graduating, entered a newspaper office and spent three years learning to be a printer.

[3] Hoch moved to Marion, Kansas, in 1871, and homesteaded 160 acres of land.

[2] Hoch was elected and served two terms in the Kansas House of Representatives (1889–91 and 1893–95).

[5] After leaving office, Hoch lectured on the Chautauqua circuit, becoming a well-known orator.