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January 1, 2025
Today in Texas History
On this day in 1925, Governor Pat M. Neff appointed an all-woman state Supreme Court, the first in Texas and probably in the nation.
The case before the court involved the Woodmen of the World. All three justices belonged to this organization and were consequently disqualified. Since most of the other judges in Texas were also Woodmen, Neff decided to choose female lawyers, who were ineligible for lodge membership.
Nellie Robertson was named special chief justice, and Edith Wilmans and Hortense Ward served as special associate justices. Due to experience requirements, Ward became special chief justice and Ruth V. Brazzil and Hattie L. Henenberg filled the associate justice positions.
The special court first met on January 8, 1925. Women did not serve on juries in the state until 1954.
The case before the court involved the Woodmen of the World. All three justices belonged to this organization and were consequently disqualified. Since most of the other judges in Texas were also Woodmen, Neff decided to choose female lawyers, who were ineligible for lodge membership.
Nellie Robertson was named special chief justice, and Edith Wilmans and Hortense Ward served as special associate justices. Due to experience requirements, Ward became special chief justice and Ruth V. Brazzil and Hattie L. Henenberg filled the associate justice positions.
The special court first met on January 8, 1925. Women did not serve on juries in the state until 1954.