The Supreme Court of Canada and Its Justices, 1875-2000: A Commemorative Book

Christopher English is a professor of history at Memorial University of
Newfoundland and the author of A Cautious Beginning: The Emergence of
Newfoundland’s Supreme Court of Judicature in 1791–92.

This large-format, illustrated commemorative volume marks 125 years
since the court was established and 50 years since it became Canada’s
court of final appeal. The book offers short, bland biographies of the
17 chief justices and the 57 associate justices who have served since
1875. Two essays support the illustrations: a general historical
overview of the court’s role and activities, and an informative
analysis of the architecture of the Supreme Court building. But it is
the photographs that take pride of place; this is a volume that appeals
to the eye, especially the interior shots of the court building.
Apparently, middle-aged men (there are only four women, appointed since
1982) do not photograph to advantage in bulky, bright-red robes.

The book is about insiders and is intended primarily for insiders. It
provides a pleasant browse for an hour or two and will undoubtedly prove
a staple among gifts presented to official visitors. Placed in the high
schools of the nation, it might further contribute to a growing popular
interest in Canadian law.