Frederick G. Katzmann
Frederick G. Katzmann | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Roxbury, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Died | October 15, 1953 (aged 78) |
| Occupation(s) | Lawyer, politician |
| Years active | 1902–1953 |
| Known for | Prosecuting Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti |
Frederick G. Katzmann (September 12, 1875 – October 15, 1953) was a prominent American lawyer and political figure from Massachusetts, known for his tenure as district attorney overseeing Norfolk and Plymouth counties. He gained international recognition for prosecuting Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti in a highly publicized armed robbery and murder trial.
Early life
Born in Roxbury on September 12, 1875, Katzmann completed his education at Boston Latin School in 1892 before graduating from Harvard College in 1896. Between 1896 and 1902, he held the position of assistant superintendent at the Hyde Park, Denham and Milton Light and Power Company. Katzmann earned his law degree from Boston University School of Law in 1902.
Political career
From 1907 to 1908, Katzmann served as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 3rd Norfolk District. Additionally, he led the Hyde Park Republican committee as its chairman.
Legal career
Katzmann initially practiced law alongside Richard S. Dow before forming a partnership with his brother Percy A. Katzmann in Hyde Park. Their firm later expanded with an office in Boston, where former district attorney Thomas E. Grover joined them in 1905. On December 20, 1909, Katzmann was appointed assistant district attorney for the southeastern district encompassing Norfolk and Plymouth counties.
He ascended to the role of district attorney on January 3, 1917. In 1921, Katzmann conducted the prosecution against Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti for charges of armed robbery and murder; the defendants were ultimately convicted and executed. After stepping down from office in 1923 to resume private legal practice, Katzmann continued to act on behalf of the government as special assistant to the district attorney during later proceedings related to the Sacco and Vanzetti case.
Banking
In addition to his legal endeavors, Katzmann held the presidency of the Hyde Park Savings Bank and served as a trustee for the International Trust Company.
Death
On October 15, 1953, Katzmann suffered a collapse during a civil court trial and passed away later that evening at Roslindale General Hospital.