John Oliver Henderson (November 13 1909 – February 19 1974) was an American jurist who served as a United States district judge for the Western District of New York from 1959 until his death in 1974, and as the court’s chief judge from 1967 to 1974.
Early life and education
Born in Buffalo, New York, Henderson earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Buffalo Law School in 1933.
Legal career
After graduating, Henderson entered private practice in Buffalo. He served as clerk of the Surrogate Court of Erie County from 1947 to 1948. During World War II, he was an officer in the United States Army, attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel and serving from 1942 to 1946. Following his military service, he resumed private practice and was appointed United States Attorney for the Western District of New York, a position he held from 1953 until his judicial appointment in 1959.
Federal judicial service
On August 21 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower nominated Henderson to the United States District Court for the Western District of New York, filling the vacancy left by Judge Justin C. Morgan. The United States Senate confirmed the nomination on September 14 1959, and Henderson received his commission on September 21 1959. He served as an active district judge until his death on February 19 1974. From 1967 to 1974, he held the role of chief judge of the district, overseeing administrative functions of the court.
Death
Henderson died in Buffalo, New York, at the age of 64.
Legacy
Henderson’s tenure contributed to the development of federal jurisprudence in western New York during a period of significant legal and social change. His service as both a district judge and chief judge is recorded in the Biographical Directory of Federal Judges, maintained by the Federal Judicial Center.
