Walter B. Scates facts for kids

Walter Bennett Scates (January 18, 1808 – October 26, 1886) was an important American lawyer and judge. He played a big role in the legal system of Illinois during the 1800s.

Early Life and Learning

Walter Bennett Scates was born in South Boston, Virginia, in 1808. When he was young, his family moved to a farm near Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Later, he learned the skill of being a printer in Nashville, Tennessee. This meant he learned how to set type and print books or newspapers.

He then decided to study law in Louisville, Kentucky. After finishing his studies, he moved to West Frankfort, Illinois. There, he started his career as a lawyer, helping people with legal problems.

A Career in Law and Justice

Walter Scates had a long and successful career in law. He first worked as a county surveyor and also as a temporary state's attorney. A state's attorney is a lawyer who represents the government in court.

In 1836, he became the Illinois Attorney General. This is the chief legal officer for the state. After that, he served as an Illinois Circuit Court judge. A circuit court judge hears cases in different areas or "circuits."

Scates was elected to the Illinois Supreme Court in 1841. This is the highest court in the state. He served there until 1847. In 1848, he helped write the new rules for the state government at the Illinois Constitutional Convention.

He returned to the Illinois Supreme Court in 1852 and served until 1857. In 1855, he even became the Chief Justice, which is the main judge of the court.

During the Civil War

During the American Civil War, Walter Scates joined the Union Army. He worked as a staff officer, helping the generals with their plans and duties. He ended the war as a major. He was also given the honorary rank of brigadier general.

After the war, President Abraham Lincoln wanted Scates to be the Governor of the New Mexico Territory. However, Scates decided not to take the job.

Later Years and Legacy

From 1866 to 1869, Walter Scates worked as the collector of customs for the Port of Chicago, Illinois. This meant he was in charge of collecting taxes on goods coming into the city by ship. He also continued to practice law in Chicago.

Walter Bennett Scates passed away in Evanston, Illinois, in 1886. He is remembered for his many years of service in law and government in Illinois.