Walter Lewis (judge) facts for kids

Sir Walter Llewellyn Lewis (born November 13, 1849 – died September 26, 1930) was an important lawyer and judge. He served as a judge in Trinidad and later became the main judge, known as the Chief Justice of British Honduras.

Early Life and Education

Walter Lewis was born in a town called Banbury in England. When he was young, his family moved to County Galway in Ireland in 1852.

He went to Queens College Galway for his education. He was a very bright student! He earned his first degree (a B.A.) in 1869. Then, he got his master's degree (an M.A.) in 1871. He was so good at his studies that he received a gold medal and top honors for his degree.

Becoming a Lawyer

In 1872, Walter Lewis began to study law at a famous place called the Middle Temple in London. This is where many lawyers in England learn their trade. He learned a lot about law by working with experienced lawyers like Robert Wallace, Herbert Reed, and Robert McCall. He often helped out Robert McCall, who had also studied at Queens College Galway.

Walter Lewis was also an adventurous person. In his free time, he loved to travel to different parts of the world. He was even an expert at navigating ships!

Career as a Judge

In 1876, Walter Lewis started working as a lawyer in England. He first worked in the northern part of the country, but he didn't enjoy it much. So, he moved to work in South Wales and Chester instead.

Around 1883 and 1884, he wasn't feeling well. Because of this, he accepted a special job from Lord Derby. He became a special kind of judge, called a stipendiary magistrate, in Trinidad. Trinidad is an island country in the Caribbean.

Work in Trinidad

In Trinidad, Lewis had many important duties beyond just being a judge. He was in charge of the roads commission, which helped manage the roads. He also led the commission on Agriculture, which looked after farming. Plus, he helped manage a fund for widows and orphans of public service workers in Trinidad.

His hard work was noticed! A famous politician named Joseph Chamberlain praised him for his efforts. Because of his excellent work, he was confirmed as a judge of the Supreme Court in Trinidad in 1893.

Chief Justice of British Honduras

By 1900, Walter Lewis moved to a new role. He became the Chief Justice of British Honduras. This meant he was the most important judge in that country.

He received several honors for his service. In 1902, he was given the King Edward VII Coronation Medal. Then, in 1904, he was made a Knight Bachelor, which meant he was given the title "Sir."

Sir Walter Lewis decided to retire in 1906. He passed away in Blackheath, England, when he was 80 years old.

Family Life

Sir Walter Lewis married a well-known artist named Jane Mary Dealy in 1887. She became Lady Lewis. Lady Lewis lived until 1939.