James French Patton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James French Patton
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| Judge West Virginia Court of Appeals | |
| In office June 1, 1881 – June 1, 1881 |
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| Succeeded by | James French Patton |
| Personal details | |
| Born | March 30, 1843 Richmond, Virginia |
| Died | March 30, 1882 (aged 38) Gallipolis Ferry, West Virginia |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Education | Andover Academy |
| Profession | Confederate officer, lawyer, judge |
James French Patton (born September 19, 1843 – died March 30, 1882) was an American lawyer and politician. He was also an officer in the Confederate Army. Patton was a member of the Democratic Party. He briefly served as a judge on the highest court in West Virginia.
Early Life and Family History
James French Patton was born in Richmond, Virginia on September 19, 1843. His father was John M. Patton, who had been a member of Congress. His mother was Peggy French Williams.
James had a famous great-grandfather, General Hugh Mercer. General Mercer was a hero who fought in the Battle of Princeton in 1776 during the American Revolutionary War.
When James was 14, he went to Andover Academy for his education. However, when Virginia decided to leave the United States (this was called "seceding from the Union"), he returned home. He then joined the Confederate Army as a lieutenant.
In 1869, James French Patton got married. His wife was the daughter of Allen T. Caperton, who was a U.S. Senator.
His Career as a Lawyer and Judge
After the Civil War ended, James Patton became a lawyer in Virginia. After he married, he moved to Union in Monroe County, West Virginia. There, he joined a law firm with his father-in-law, Senator Caperton.
In 1872, the people of Monroe County elected Patton. He became the prosecuting attorney for the county. A prosecuting attorney is a lawyer who works for the government. Their job is to bring legal cases against people accused of crimes. Patton served in this role for four years.
On June 1, 1881, Governor Jacob B. Jackson chose Patton for an important job. He appointed him as a judge on the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia. This is the highest court in West Virginia. He took the place of Justice Charles P.T. Moore, who had retired.
Later Life and Passing
James French Patton's time as a judge was very short. He sadly died suddenly on March 30, 1882. He was only 37 years old. He passed away in Wheeling, West Virginia due to a heart condition.
General George F. Patton, a famous military leader, was one of his descendants.
