Definition
Amasa Junius Parker (June 11, 1807 – August 13, 1890) was an American lawyer, jurist, author, and politician who served as a United States Representative from New York and later as a justice of the New York Supreme Court.
Overview
Born in Hudson, New York, Parker graduated from Union College in 1826 and was admitted to the bar in 1829. He practiced law in Rochester, New York, and became a prominent figure in the state's legal and political circles. As a member of the Whig Party, he was elected to the 30th United States Congress, serving from March 1847 to March 1849. After his term in Congress, Parker returned to legal practice and was appointed a justice of the New York Supreme Court (8th District) in 1850, a position he held until 1865. He also served on the New York Court of Appeals as an ex‑officio judge from 1853 to 1854.
In addition to his judicial work, Parker authored several legal texts, most notably A Treatise on the Law of Negligence (1854), which was widely cited in American jurisprudence. He was an active member of the Rochester Historical Society and contributed to local historical scholarship. Parker died in Rochester and was interred at Mount Hope Cemetery.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Amasa” is of Hebrew origin, meaning “burden” or “load.” The middle name “Junius” is derived from the Roman family name “Junius,” historically associated with the month of June. The surname “Parker” is an English occupational name originally referring to a park keeper or gamekeeper.
Characteristics
- Legal Career: Practiced law in Rochester; appointed to the New York Supreme Court (8th District); ex‑officio judge on the New York Court of Appeals.
- Political Service: Served a single term as a Whig Representative for New York’s 29th congressional district (1847‑1849).
- Authorship: Wrote A Treatise on the Law of Negligence (1854) and other legal commentaries that influenced 19th‑century American law.
- Historical Involvement: Active participant in the Rochester Historical Society; contributed articles on local history.
- Family: His son, Amasa J. Parker Jr. (1843–1938), followed a similar legal and political path, serving as a New York State Senator and federal judge.
Related Topics
- Whig Party (United States) – The political party to which Parker belonged during his congressional service.
- New York Supreme Court (8th District) – The jurisdiction where Parker served as a justice.
- New York Court of Appeals – The state's highest court, on which Parker sat ex‑officio.
- 19th‑century American legal literature – Context for Parker’s contributions to legal scholarship.
- Rochester, New York – The city where Parker lived, practiced law, and engaged in civic activities.