Thomas Cochran (judge) facts for kids
Thomas Cochran (born 1777 – died October 8, 1804) was an important lawyer and judge in early Canada. He worked in places like Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Upper Canada (which is now part of Ontario).
Early Life and Education
Thomas Cochran was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia. His father, also named Thomas Cochran, was a merchant and a member of the group that helped make laws for Nova Scotia. Thomas was one of eight children from his father's second marriage.
He went to King's College to study. After that, he spent some time in Quebec before traveling to England. In England, he continued his studies at a famous law school called Lincoln's Inn. He officially became a lawyer in England in 1801.
A Young Judge
In 1801, the same year he became a lawyer, Thomas Cochran was given a very important job. He was appointed the Chief Justice for Prince Edward Island. This meant he was the main judge in charge of the courts there.
Just a year later, in June 1802, he was chosen to be a judge for the Court of King's Bench in Upper Canada. This court handled many important legal cases. He then traveled west from Prince Edward Island to take on his new role.
Tragic Journey
In 1804, Judge Cochran was traveling to attend a trial in Upper Canada. He was on a ship called the HMS Speedy. Sadly, the ship got caught in a big winter storm on Lake Ontario and sank. No one on board survived the storm.
After his death, another judge named Robert Thorpe took his place on the court.
