Robert F. Morrison facts for kids

Robert Francis Morrison (born August 16, 1826 – died March 2, 1887) was a very important judge in California. He was the 13th Chief Justice of California, which means he was the top judge in the state. He held this job from November 1879 until he passed away in March 1887.

Robert Morrison's Early Life and Career

Robert Morrison was born in a town called Kaskaskia, Illinois, on August 16, 1826. When he was older, he joined the army and fought in the Mexican–American War. This was a big war between the United States and Mexico. Robert fought bravely in a battle called the Battle of Buena Vista.

After the war, Robert went to St. Louis, Missouri. He wanted to become a lawyer, so he learned about law by working with his older brother, who was already a successful lawyer. He also attended some special law classes at Harvard Law School, which is a very famous university.

Becoming a Lawyer and Judge

In 1850, Robert Morrison moved to Sacramento, California. He started a law firm with his brother and another person named J. Neely Johnson, who later became the governor of California. Robert was elected as the district attorney for Sacramento County, California. A district attorney is a lawyer who works for the government and helps with legal cases.

Later, in 1856, Robert moved to San Francisco. There, he continued to practice law with other lawyers. He even worked as an Assistant United States Attorney. This means he was a lawyer who helped the U.S. government. In October 1869, Robert Morrison was chosen to be a judge in California's Fourth Judicial District. He was so good at his job that he was chosen again in 1875.

Chief Justice of California

In October 1879, California was getting a new state constitution. This meant there were new elections for important jobs. Robert Morrison ran for the position of Chief Justice. He was supported by the Democratic Party and another group called the Workingmen's Party. He won the election and became the Chief Justice of California.

Robert Morrison served as Chief Justice until he became very ill. He suffered a stroke in February 1887 and passed away a week later on March 2, 1887. After his death, Governor Washington Bartlett chose Niles Searls to be the next Chief Justice.

Robert Morrison's Family Life

On November 6, 1854, Robert Morrison married Julia Stettinius. They got married in St. Louis, Missouri. Julia was born on September 2, 1832, and passed away on December 18, 1895.