Henry Williams Blodgett

1821–1905 (age 84)

Biography

Judge Henry Williams Blodgett presided over the Northern District of Illinois with a reputation for fairness and calm, navigating complex cases during a time of tremendous economic and social change. He prized meticulous reasoning and treated every person who entered his courtroom with respect.

Beyond the bench, Blodgett was a steady citizen who encouraged civic virtue and supported the institutions that nurtured thoughtful discourse.