Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 27.djvu/359

 ./'/A/. HV///.///I Brockeiibrough. 351

parents of William, who was born July 10, 1778. His father gave him good scholastic opportunities, which he very creditably im- proved, and then adopted the profession of law. At the early age of twenty-four (1802-3) ne represented Essex in the legislature, and in May, 1803, was appointed a member of the State Council. About this time he gave to the public, under the signature of " Aristogi- ton," some essays on constitutional law, " which were greatly ad- mired at the time, for the depth and originality of their views." His employing such a signature is significant, as showing something of the character of his reading and his sympathy with the patriotism and love of liberty which inspired Harmodious and Aristogiton in their resistance to the tyrants over their beloved Athens.

For about six years, besides his services in the council, he con- tinued successfully the practice of law.

In 1809, the legislature had abolished the old district courts and established circuit superior courts, for which the State was divided into fourteen circuits. So that some new judges had to be elected, which was then done by joint vote of both houses of the legislature, for life, or during good behavior. Then the judges, thus elected, were commissioned by the governor. The election took place Feb- ruary 7, 1809. Messrs. Baker and Daniel nominated William Brock- enbrough in the lower house; Messrs. Strother and Pope nominated Hugh Nelson; others were also nominated. On the second ballot Hugh Nelson was elected. There were three more ballotings, and Brockenbrough, advancing from 53 to 85, was elected by a joint vote of 97. The others voted for were Daniel Sheffey, who came next to Brockenbrough, James Semple, James Allen, Wm. W. Hening, and Alex. Stuart, all worthy competitors.

Judge Brockenbrough was assigned to a western circuit (the Thir- teenth), which, in 1811, embraced the counties of Tazewell, Russell, Lee, Washington, Wythe, Grayson, and Montgomery. He was afterwards, in 1812, brough to the more important one, embracing the city of Richmond and counties of Henrico, Essex, etc. Besides discharging faithfully and efficiently all his judicial functions, he un- dertook the publication of a volume entitled "Virginia Cases: A collection of Cases decided by the General Court of Virginia, chiefly relating to the penal laws of the Commonwealth, commencing in the year 1798 and ending in 1814. Copied from the Records of said Court, with explanatory notes by Judges Brockenbrough and Holmes. 1815." This work shows his disposition towards his profession and its