Manuel Nunes da Silva was born in Cacia, Aveiro, on April 25, 1860, and died on December 14, 1951. He was a singular benefactor of his homeland, having left a significant legacy for the local community.
Among his main achievements, the obtaining of the railway halt in Cacia stands out, which later transformed into the station that serves not only Cacia but also Angeja and other settlements on the banks of the Vouga. He was also responsible for the construction of the Mota Dyke between the two bridges, on the right bank of the Vouga, for the protection of agricultural fields. He also promoted the construction of the first school building in the parish, the installation of electricity, the restoration of the Church, and the improvement of the main streets.
He held various public positions throughout his life, including Deputy in the Monarchic Cortes, Judicial Delegate in the Judicial Districts of Ovar and Barcelos, Judge of the Northern Tax Litigation Court, President of the Lisbon Commercial Court, President of the Court of Appeal, and Judge of the Supreme Court of Justice. After retirement, he was President of the Permanent Commission of International and Maritime Law.
After the establishment of the Republic in 1910, he faced some ingratitude due to his monarchist past, but his admirable serenity allowed him to continue holding high social functions under the Republican Regime, always deserving the respect and admiration of all for the way he fulfilled his duties with impartiality. This article is part of the series "Figures Who Made Aveiro."
