Joseph Arsenne Breaux facts for kids
Joseph Arsenne Breaux (born February 18, 1838 – died July 26, 1926) was a very important judge in Louisiana. He served on the Louisiana Supreme Court from 1890 to 1914. For the last ten years of that time (1904-1914), he was the chief justice, which is the highest judge on the court. He was also known for making schools better in Louisiana.
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Early Life and Education
Joseph Breaux came from a family of Acadians, who are often called Cajuns in Louisiana. His parents were Jean Baptiste Breaux and Margaret Walsh. He was born on his family's farm in Bayou Goula, a town in Iberville Parish, Louisiana.
Young Joseph went to college at Georgetown College (Kentucky) in Kentucky. Later, he studied at Tulane University in Louisiana, finishing his studies in 1859. In 1861, he married Eugenie Mille.
Life After the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Joseph Breaux fought for the Southern states. He became a lieutenant in the army. After the war ended in 1865, he moved to Lafayette, and then to New Iberia, Louisiana in 1867. He was the very first lawyer to practice law in New Iberia.
Helping His Community
In New Iberia, Joseph Breaux became a well-known person. He helped start the city's First National Bank and was its president for many years. He also led the New Iberia School Board, helping to guide local schools.
In 1888, he was chosen to be the Louisiana State Superintendent of Schools. This meant he was in charge of all the public schools in the state. While in this job, he successfully helped pass a new law about schools through the Louisiana State Legislature.
A Judge on the Supreme Court
In 1890, the Governor of Louisiana, Francis T. Nicholls, chose Joseph Breaux to be a judge on the Louisiana Supreme Court. This is the highest court in the state.
In 1904, Judge Breaux became the chief justice of the court. He held this important position until 1914. He was known for putting together a collection of laws called Breaux's Digest.
Joseph Breaux also cared a lot about helping others. He gave money to many important places, including Charity Hospital, the Louisiana State Museum, and the law schools at Tulane University and Loyola University. He also supported Evangeline Longfellow State Park.
Family Life
Judge Breaux was married to Eugenie Milles. They were married on April 12, 1861. Joseph and Eugenie Breaux did not have any children.
