New Jersey Biographies


John H. Backes

Trenton.-Jurist

Born in Trenton, August 18, 1863: son of John and Mary Hannis Backes.

Married at Trenton, August 28, 1889, to Elizabeth Cherry Hattersley, daughter of Charles M. and Josephine Hattersley, of Trenton.

Children: Florence, Elizabeth and Eleanor.

John H. Backes is a Vice Chancellor of the New Jersey Court of Chancery, and one of a family of six brothers, five of whom are lawyers.

Mr. Backes is of German parentage. As a boy, he attended a local parochial school, and at the age of thirteen entered the law office of Edward H. Murphy, Trenton, where he was office-boy and clerk. He served an apprenticeship until he was admitted to practice at the Bar as an attorney at the November term, 1884.

He was licensed as a counselor at the February term, 1888. Shortly after he was admitted to the Bar, he opened an office at the corner of State and Warren Streets, Trenton, where he practiced his profession, until he was elevated to the bench. His practice was extensive and varied, he appeared in the law and equity courts of the State in many important litigations.

In politics, Vice Chancellor Backes is a Democrat, but although for many years prominently identified with his party, never sought or held a political position.

In February, 1913, Chancellor Walker appointed Mr. Backes a Vice Chancellor for the term of seven years.

BACK

©2006 Genealogy Trails