The Other Robert Morris - Chief Justice of Revolutionary New Jersey
When we hear the name Robert Morris involved in the American Revolution, we usually think of the financier from Philadelphia.
Today we discuss Robert Morris of New Jersey, not quite as wealthy as the other Robert Morris, but certainly important to the American Founding.
Robert Morris
Robert Morris was an extended member of the powerful Morris Family of New York.
His father, Robert Hunter Morris, had served as Chief Justice of the colony of New Jersey for 25 years and briefly as Governor of Pennsylvania.
Like him, his cousins would play an important role in the American Revolution, with one signing the Declaration, one signing the Constitution and one acting as Chief Justice of New York.
Expected to Help
Robert Morris had great things expected of him.
When he completed his study of the law in 1770 Robert went into private practice.
After independence, however, the Patriots were looking for men to take over important positions.
Morris, with family members on both sides of the hostilities, kept out of the fight.
That did not prevent the Revolutionaries in New Jersey from appointing him as Clerk for Bergen County.
Chief Justice
After just six months as County Clerk, Robert was given a promotion...to CHIEF JUSTICE OF NEW JERSEY!
This was obviously quite a jump in importance for a 31-year-old man, but it is not surprising.
Not only was he from an extremely prominent family, but he was given the same office his father had held for a quarter century.
Federal Judge
Morris only remained in the position of Chief Justice for two and a half years, continuing as Clerk for most of that stay.
Robert spent another decade in private practice before President Washington nominated him as a Judge in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Like his father before him, Robert Morris spent the last 25 years of his life serving in an extremely high judicial position.
If you enjoyed this article, you might like these other members of the Morris Family:
The Amputation of Gouverneur Morris - Finding Truth in Legend
Lewis Morris Risks Comfort for his Country
The Sibling with Nothing to Sign - Richard Morris
i also just made this video about the Morris Family:
Though Robert does not have a biography, his cousin Gouverneur is one of the most hilarious characters of the Revolution.
‘Gentleman Revolutionary’ also happens to be one of the books that first introduced me to the less-popular American Founders. It’s an easy read and I really can’t recommend it enough.
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