Charles E. Parker
Charles Edward Parker | |
|---|---|
| Born | Error: Invalid birth date for calculating age Owego, New York, U.S. |
| Died | 2 March 1909 (aged 72) Owego, New York, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Jurist, judge |
| Years active | 1859–1907 |
| Known for | Justice of the New York Supreme Court (1887–1907), presiding justice of the appellate division for the Third Judicial Department |
Charles Edward Parker (August 25, 1836 – March 2, 1909) was a distinguished jurist from New York who served on the New York Supreme Court between 1887 and 1907.
Early life
Charles was born in Owego, New York to Catherine Ann (née Pumpelly) and John Mason Parker. He hailed from a family deeply rooted in the judiciary, with both his father and grandfather having held positions as justices on the New York Supreme Court. After completing his studies at Hobart College in 1857, he pursued legal training under his father’s mentorship and gained admission to the bar in 1859.
Career
Parker initially practiced law in Elmira before moving back to Owego. In 1867, he received an appointment as United States Commissioner for the Northern District of New York and also represented Tioga County at the New York State Constitutional Convention that same year. Additionally, he fulfilled duties as a justice of the peace.
His leadership extended to municipal governance where he was elected village president of Owego in 1871, again in 1879, and once more in 1880. In 1883, Parker won election as judge of Tioga County and served until January 1888. He secured a seat on the New York Supreme Court in November 1887, commencing his tenure in January 1888. In October 1895, Governor Levi P. Morton named him presiding justice of the appellate division for the Third Judicial Department. Parker was re-elected in 1901 and remained on the bench until mandatory retirement on January 1, 1907.
Outside his judicial responsibilities, Parker played a pivotal role in founding the Owego National Bank, where he served on the board of directors and later held positions as vice president and president.
Personal life
On June 15, 1865, Parker married Mary Farrington, daughter of Thomas Farrington. He was affiliated with the Owego Episcopal Church and was informally known as Charlie among acquaintances. Besides his legal career, he managed an extensive farm located near Owego.
Parker passed away at his residence in Owego on March 2, 1909, and was laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery.
Awards
In recognition of his contributions, Hobart College awarded Parker an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 1902.