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Oral history interview with John F. Kilkenny [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with John F. Kilkenny was conducted by Rick Harmon in Portland, Oregon, in 15 sessions from June 12 to October 3, 1984. A transcript is available. The original audio of the recording is incomplete due to irretrievable damage to Tape 14, side 2. Tape 17 is a re-enactment of that audio. The re-enactment was created after the damage to the original tape was discovered. It was based upon an earlier transcript created before the damage occurred, which no longer exists. The accuracy of the re-enactment cannot be verified.

In the first interview session, conducted on June 12, 1984, Kilkenny discusses his family background and early life on a sheep farm in Heppner, Oregon. He talks about the Heppner community's relationship with local Native people; describes the sheep-cattle wars; and talks about his recreational activities.

In the second interview session, conducted on June 15, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss his early life, including his early education in a one-room school, his Catholic upbringing, and his family's political beliefs. He describes his experiences attending Columbia Preparatory, a boarding school in Portland.

In the third interview session, conducted on June 21, 1984, Kilkenny briefly discusses his memories of World War I. He speaks further about sheep ranching, then talks about attending the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, including playing football under Knute Rockne.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on June 26, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss attending Notre Dame in Indiana, including studying law and his social life. He talks about preparing for the Oregon Bar by taking prep courses at Northwestern College of Law. He discusses his early law career in Pendleton and notable cases he worked on, including bankruptcy and Prohibition cases. He also talks about his political views and Republican affiliation.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on June 29, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss his political views and Republican affiliation. He describes the effects of the Depression on his family. He talks about serving as city attorney for Pendleton from 1930 to 1934; speaks about his marriage to Virginia Brannock; and discusses working as a lawyer in private practice.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on July 5, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss working as a lawyer in private practice and talks about some of the cases he worked on. He speaks about how World War II affected people in Eastern Oregon.

In the seventh interview session, conducted on July 27, 1984, Kilkenny discusses his involvement with the Oregon State Bar.

In the eighth interview session, conducted on August 3, 1984, Kilkenny speaks at length about his 1959 appointment to the U.S. District Court of Oregon.

In the ninth interview session, conducted on August 9, 1984, Kilkenny discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He briefly describes judges he worked with, including Hall Lusk and Gus Solomon, and discusses cases involving admiralty law.

In the tenth interview session, conducted on August 21, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He talks about cases involving labor law.

In the eleventh interview session, conducted on August 28, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He talks about cases involving the first amendment and criminal law. He also speaks further about serving with Hall Lusk. He then discusses his 1969 appointment to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

In the twelfth interview session, conducted on September 4, 1984, Kilkenny discusses serving as a judge on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He discusses cases involving the draft and talks about procedures of the court.

In the thirteenth interview session, conducted on September 11, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss serving as a judge on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He talks about serving as a guest judge in other circuit courts, about his senior status, and about his decision-making process.

In the fourteenth interview session, conducted on September 27, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss serving as a judge on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He talks about how his sentencing style has changed over time and about new precedents set by recent courts.

In the fifteenth interview session, conducted on October 3, 1984, Kilkenny continues to discuss serving as a judge on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He shares his thoughts on the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. He discusses his involvement in the preservation of the Pioneer Courthouse in Portland. He closes the interview by talking about his recent activities and family life.

Kilkenny, John F. (1901-1995)

Oral history interview with Gus J. Solomon [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Gus J. Solomon was conducted by Rick Harmon at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from July 23 to October 18, 1984. In this interview, Solomon discusses his family background and early life in Portland, including his memories of World War I, his Jewish upbringing, his father’s store, and his education. He then discusses attending Reed College, his interest in history, and his subsequent transfer to the University of Chicago. He discusses studying law at Columbia University, including his social life in New York, then transferring to Stanford University, including his developing political beliefs. He also discusses his family’s financial difficulties during this time period. He talks about the difficulty in finding a job in a law office during the Depression, and about some of the cases he worked on, particularly cases involving civil rights. He also talks about his involvement with the Democratic Party, the Oregon Commonwealth Foundation, and the American Civil Liberties Union. He describes his work toward establishing a legal aid program in Oregon, his work on public power, and his efforts getting jobs for young lawyers, particularly those from underrepresented groups. He describes being rejected for military service in World War II and cases he worked on related to internment of Japanese-Americans, particularly after the war.Solomon discusses serving as a judge for the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He talks about his election to the bench and the opposition he faced; the adjustment from lawyer to judge; and his relationship with his fellow judges. He describes in detail his techniques for speeding up the judicial process, with some case examples. He then discusses his activities as a senior judge, beginning in 1971, which he describes as being largely the same as when he was an active judge. He talks about hearing cases in other districts, particularly in Southern California; the McCarthy era; and cases with political implications, particularly cases regarding the draft. He talks about serving as chief judge from 1959 to 1971, and the changes he made to rules and procedures of the court. He describes some of the law clerks he’s had over his career, including Jerome Kohlberg, Jr. He speaks briefly about his early opposition to clubs with discriminatory policies. Solomon provides advice to lawyers on how to win cases, and discusses lawyers he has worked with. He talks about sentencing, judicial activism, and interpreting law.Solomon closes the interview by talking about his personal life and activities. He discusses the many organizations he has belonged to, including the Reed College Alumni Association and Amnesty International. He also talks about organizations he regularly donates to, including the Jewish Federation. He describes his family life and the activities of his children and grandchildren.

Solomon, Gus J. (Gus Jerome), 1906-1987

Oral history interview with William G. East [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with William G. East was conducted by Rick Harmon in East's chambers in Eugene, Oregon, in two sessions from November 8-15, 1984, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project.

In the first interview session, conducted on November 8, 1984, East discusses his family background and early life in Salem, Oregon, including his education and interest in journalism and sports. He then discusses attending the University of Oregon from 1927 to 1932 and studying law. He talks about the Depression hitting in the middle of his studies, his social life, and his developing political outlook. He also talks about Orlando Hollis and Wayne Morse as law professors. He then discusses practicing law in Eugene from 1932 to 1942, including law firms he worked at and cases he tried. He describes his experience in the U.S. Army during World War II, including his training, service in Germany, and his involvement in the capture of Hermann Göring. He describes his return to civilian life and law practice, as well as his position as city attorney for Eugene.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 15, 1984, East talks about his service on the Oregon Circuit Court from 1949 to 1955, including his appointment, conflict with the press, and various cases he heard. East goes on to discuss his service on the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1955 to 1967, including his appointment. He particularly focuses on a scandal that nearly derailed his appointment and on a meeting with President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He also discusses cases he heard, including a negligence case involving Booth-Kelly Lumber Company that he heard twice, and a case on public defender compensation. He describes the changes to court procedures implemented by Judge Gus Solomon. He then discusses his decision to take senior status in 1967, as well as his activities since then, including cases on Native American rights and sovereignty. He closes the interview with a discussion of his judicial philosophy, his involvement with various civic organizations, and his hobbies and family life.

East, William G., 1908-1985

Oral history interview with Alfred T. Goodwin [Index]

Index. This oral history interview with Alfred T. Goodwin was conducted by Rick Harmon at the Pioneer Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from May 10, 1985, to September 3, 1986. The audio for this interview is incomplete; Tape 22 was discovered to be blank in 2020, but its content is represented in both an incomplete transcript and a completed index. In this interview, Goodwin discusses his family background and early life in Bellingham, Washington, and Portland and Prineville, Oregon, including his early education, his memories of the Depression, and life on a farm. He talks about studying journalism at the University of Oregon, including his social life. He speaks at length about his Army service in Europe during World War II, including his experiences in combat and freeing prisoners. He also talks about his marriages and family life. He discusses returning to the University of Oregon to study law, and how his background in journalism influenced his decision-making as a judge. He speaks at length about working for the Eugene Register-Guard newspaper, as well as his support for and later disillusionment with U.S. Senator Wayne Morse. Goodwin discusses practicing law in Eugene. He talks about cases he argued, including as a court-appointed lawyer. He also talks about his involvement in the Republican Party, including serving as a precinct committee member. He discusses serving as a judge on the Lane County Circuit Court, including his appointment and later re-election, cases he heard, and his decision-making process. He then discusses serving on the Oregon Supreme Court, including his appointment and later re-election, his fellow justices, and some of the cases they heard. He talks about opinions he wrote, as well as his involvement in the effort to revise the Oregon state constitution in the 1960s. He discusses the changes in laws regarding the criminal code and civil rights, and how that affected the decisions of the Oregon Supreme Court. He also discusses his views on the Vietnam War, the criminalization of drug use, and the civil rights movement of the 1960s. He discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court, including his appointment and confirmation, his fellow judges, and some of the cases he heard. He discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, including his appointment and confirmation; cases he heard, particularly concerning immigration and anti-trust law; and his opinion on Roe v. Wade. He also discusses the role of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, his fellow judges, and his involvement with the American Bar Association. He talks about continuing education opportunities for members of the judiciary; his children, their careers, and their families; and his involvement with the Presbyterian Church. He closes the interview by discussing his move to California.

Goodwin, Alfred T. (Alfred Theodore), 1923-2022

Oral history interview with Hugh Biggs [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Hugh Biggs was conducted by Clarence Wicks in the offices of Stoel, Rives, Boley, Jones & Grey in Portland, Oregon, from June 29 to July 2, 1988. The interview was conducted in three sessions, and a transcript is available.

In the first interview session, conducted on June 29, 1988, Biggs discusses his family background and early life in Ontario, Oregon, including his siblings and their careers, and his recreational activities. He briefly talks about his mother and his father, Dalton Biggs, who was a Circuit Court judge from 1910 to 1928. He speaks at length about working on his family's ranch in Bridal Veil, Oregon. He briefly talks about studying at the University of Oregon, including his years in law school and serving as dean of men.

In the second interview session, conducted on June 30, 1988, Biggs speaks further about his family background, including his grandfather, grandmother, and aunt. He continues to discuss serving as dean of men at the University of Oregon. He also briefly talks about his experience as a law student, his bar exam, and his law practice in Ontario. He speaks about his marriage to Elra Ware, and discusses their children and their careers. He talks about his experience as a district attorney in Malheur County and as an assistant U.S. attorney in Portland, Oregon. He talks about practicing law with the Maguire, Shields, and Morrison law firm, including cases they worked on. He shares his experiences during the Depression and World War II. He discusses clients he worked with, particularly the Northern Pacific Railroad.

In the third interview session, conducted on July 2, 1988, Biggs speaks about insurance cases and medical malpractice cases he handled. He speaks about practicing law in Portland, particularly discussing Stoel, Rives, Boley, Jones & Grey and its history, and about lawyers he worked with. He discusses federal cases he worked on, including Perrin v. Aluminum Co. of America. He speaks at length about the judges on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He closes the interview by discussing his involvement in professional organizations.

Biggs, Hugh L. (Hugh Lawry), 1904-1996

Oral history interview with Robert C. Belloni [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Robert C. Belloni was conducted by Jim Strassmaier from September 19, 1988, to July 28, 1989. In this interview, Belloni discusses his family background and early life in Coos County, Oregon, including his education. He talks about studying pre-med at the University of Oregon and his service as a U.S. Army medical officer in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He describes landing in Japan just as it surrendered. He talks about returning to civilian life and deciding to go to law school, attending the University of Oregon, and his friendship with Ted Goodwin. He discusses his early law career in Coos County. He also talks about his early political career, holding the offices of chair of the Democratic Central Committee for Coos County and mayor of Myrtle Point. He also talks about his relationship with Wayne Morse. He discusses serving as a Circuit Court judge in Southern Oregon from 1957 to 1967, particularly presiding over juvenile cases. He then discusses serving on the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1967 to the time of the interview, including the politics of his appointment. He discusses his fellow District Court judges, including Gus Solomon, John Kilkenney, and Otto Skopil. He also talks about the variety of cases that came before him, including on land fraud, asbestos, consumer protections, and several cases involving Native American rights. He discusses his law clerks, judicial process, and ethics. Belloni discusses serving as chief judge on the District Court from 1971 to 1976, and the duties and responsibilities of that position, including his work in establishing the magistrate system and the sentencing council. He closes the interview by discussing changes in the court systems over the 20th century, his experience as a senior judge, and his personal life.

Belloni, Robert C. (Robert Clinton), 1919-1999

Oral history interview with Otto Skopil [Index]

Index. This oral history interview with Otto Skopil was conducted by Rick Harmon and Jim Strassmaier in Skopil’s chambers at the Pioneer Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from August 19, 1985, to November 27, 1989. The audio for this interview is incomplete; Tape 26 was discovered to be blank in 2020, but its contents are reflected in an incomplete transcript and in an index. In the interview, Skopil discusses his family background and early life in Salem, Oregon, including his time at Salem High School and the effect of the Depression and the New Deal on the Salem area. Skopil talks about attending Willamette University in great detail. He discusses his World War II experience in the Navy from 1942 to 1945, between earning his bachelor’s degree in economics and returning to earn his bachelor of law. Skopil describes practicing law in Salem for 26 years, from 1946 to 1972, including partnering with his uncle, Ralph Skopil, and later with Bruce Williams. He discusses some of the cases he argued, particularly his only U.S. Supreme Court case, which involved State Farm Insurance. He then briefly discusses his personal life, including his two marriages, first to June Johnson, then to Jan Lundy, and his involvement in various religious and civic organizations, including the Board of Governors for the Oregon Bar. He also discusses his involvement with the Republican Party and his opposition to both the Korean and Vietnam wars, as well as how the draft affected his son, Ric Skopil. He talks about serving as a judge for the U.S. Circuit Court of Oregon, including his confirmation; the procedures of the court; sentencing; and the development of the magistrate system. He also discusses some of the cases he presided over on topics including the environment, white-collar crime, and securities. He talks at length about the case of Chuck Armsbury. He also discusses working with his fellow judges, particularly Gus Solomon and Robert Belloni, as well as his relationships with Mark Hatfield and Griffin Bell. Skopil then describes his time as a judge for the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, including the relationship between that court and Congress; the increase of litigation during the 1980s; and the public perception of the Ninth. He discusses some of the cases that came before the court on topics including mental health, capital punishment, timber, and drugs. He also talks about some of his fellow judges, particularly Ted Goodwin and James Browning. Skopil closes the interview by describing the importance of law clerks; discussing sentencing guidelines; and talking about his family life.

Skopil, Otto R. (Otto Richard), 1919-

Oral history interview with Sidney Lezak [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Sidney Lezak was conducted by Jack G. Collins from August 16, 1988, to June 6, 1990, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in four sessions, and a transcript is available.

In the first interview session, conducted on August 16, 1988, Lezak discusses his family background and early life in Chicago, Illinois, including the reasons why his family immigrated to the United States from Russia. He speaks at length about jobs he worked, then briefly discusses his studies at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, before he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1942. He speaks at length about his experience during his time in the Air Force during World War II, including his training, his work as a navigator, and his memories of V-E Day and V-J Day. He discusses his political views and his involvement in politics even at a young age. He talks about his marriage to Muriel Deutsch, and about relocating to Portland, Oregon, to practice law at the firm Lensky, Spiegel, Spiegel, and Martindale. He discusses some of the cases he worked on, particularly regarding labor law and civil rights, including the "Mango Ang" case; talks about some of the other law firms he worked for; and shares his experience of arguing before Judge Gus Solomon. He discusses his involvement with the Democratic Party of Oregon, including serving as the organization's legal counsel. He then talks about his service as U.S. attorney for Oregon from 1961 to 1982, including his appointment, his work toward making the U.S. attorney's office non-partisan, and some of the cases he prosecuted, including mail fraud that happened in 1956.

In the second interview session, conducted on December 14, 1988, Lezak continues to discuss his service as U.S. attorney for Oregon. He talks about his experience as the chief federal prosecutor in the District of Oregon, about his acquaintance with Ed Luckey, and about working with the FBI and local law enforcement. He speaks at length about working under U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, including a case involving Assistant U.S. Attorney David Robinson, Jim Elkins, and investigator Arthur Kaplan. He then talks about judges on the U.S. District Court that he argued before, including William East, Gus Solomon, and John Kilkenny. He speaks at length about cases that were pending when he began his service as U.S. Attorney, particularly those involving Phil Weinstein and Reuben Lensky. He also discusses a land fraud case that was tried by John Kilkenny.

In the third interview session, conducted on September 7, 1989, Lezak continues to discuss his service as U.S. attorney for Oregon. He speaks at length about civil unrest during the Vietnam War, and about prosecuting protestors and conscientious objectors, including Eric Newhall. He also talks about a conversation he had with Senator Wayne Morse about the Vietnam War. He discusses working on cases regarding draft evasion; about working with Tommy Hawk, who was in charge of handling difficult draft cases; and about working on the case of David Gwyther and Kip Morgan, protestors charged with hindering a draft board meeting. He also shares his memories of draft protester Lance Montauk. He discusses Governor Tom McCall's handling of the 1970 American Legion national convention in Portland. He speaks at length about cases he worked on during the 1970s, including the federal investigation into the Portland Police Bureau's use of lethal force, with a focus on the murder of Ricky Johnson.

In the fourth and final interview session, conducted on June 6, 1990, Lezak continues to discuss his service as U.S. attorney for Oregon. He talks about U.S. District Court judges, including Robert Belloni, William G. East, and Ted Goodwin. He speaks at length about a situation involving Oregon Journal reporter Jim Bonet. He then briefly talks about Mallory Walker, the first Black assistant U.S. attorney. He also speaks about his staff and law clerks, particularly Kristen Olson, who later became U.S. attorney. He shares his memories of the Saturday Night Massacre, when President Richard Nixon attempted to fire the special prosecutor investigating the Watergate scandal. He then discusses the American Indian Movement in Oregon, including relations with the Warm Springs tribe. Lezak discusses his resignation in 1982 in response to the policies of the Reagan administration. He closes the interview by talking about his activities since leaving office, including his career as a mediator.

Lezak, Sidney I., 1924-2006

Oral history interview with Cleveland C. Cory [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Cleveland C. Cory was conducted by George Fraser around 1990 to 1991, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in two sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted at Cory's home in Portland, Oregon, on June 19, 1990, Cory discusses his family background and early life in Englewood, New Jersey. He then discusses his college experience, including attending Yale Law School from 1940 to 1943. He then talks about working for the Davis & Polk law firm in New York, including representing Prince Edward, the Duke of Windsor, as well as various railroads. He then discusses relocating to Oregon in 1949 and his reasons for doing so, including seeking an improved quality of life and the difficulty of becoming a partner at a New York law firm. He talks about his career at a law firm in Portland, now known as Stoel Rives, including many of the cases he tried. He also briefly discusses his renowned memory for cases.

In the second interview session, conducted at a later date at the Crestview Convalescent Home in Portland, Oregon, where Cory was recovering from a broken shoulder, Cory further discusses his early employment in Portland.

Cory, Cleveland C. (Cleveland Cady), 1918-1991

Oral history interview with Cleveland C. Cory [Session 1, Recording 01]

Tape 1, Side 1. In the first interview session, conducted at Cory's home in Portland, Oregon, on June 19, 1990, Cory discusses his family background and early life in Englewood, New Jersey. He then discusses his college experience, including attending Yale Law School from 1940 to 1943. He then talks about working for the Davis & Polk law firm in New York, including representing Prince Edward, the Duke of Windsor, as well as various railroads. He then discusses relocating to Oregon in 1949 and his reasons for doing so, including seeking an improved quality of life and the difficulty of becoming a partner at a New York law firm. He talks about his career at a law firm in Portland, now known as Stoel Rives, including many of the cases he tried. He also briefly discusses his renowned memory for cases.

Cory, Cleveland C. (Cleveland Cady), 1918-1991

Oral history interview with Cleveland C. Cory [Session 1, Recording 02]

Tape 1, Side 2. In the first interview session, conducted at Cory's home in Portland, Oregon, on June 19, 1990, Cory discusses his family background and early life in Englewood, New Jersey. He then discusses his college experience, including attending Yale Law School from 1940 to 1943. He then talks about working for the Davis & Polk law firm in New York, including representing Prince Edward, the Duke of Windsor, as well as various railroads. He then discusses relocating to Oregon in 1949 and his reasons for doing so, including seeking an improved quality of life and the difficulty of becoming a partner at a New York law firm. He talks about his career at a law firm in Portland, now known as Stoel Rives, including many of the cases he tried. He also briefly discusses his renowned memory for cases.

Cory, Cleveland C. (Cleveland Cady), 1918-1991

Oral history interview with Wendell Wyatt [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Wendell Wyatt was conducted by Randall Weisberg at Wyatt's office in Portland, Oregon, from January 28 to March 24, 1992, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in three sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on January 28, 1992, Wyatt discusses his family background and early life in Eugene and Portland, including his childhood hobbies, his memories of the Depression, and his interest in journalism. He then discusses studying journalism at the University of Oregon, including writing for the student newspaper, the Oregon Daily Emerald. He then discusses attending the University of Oregon Law School, including some of his professors, particularly Orlando Hollis; his social life; and the various jobs he held throughout. He talks about his early interest in politics and getting a job with the FBI, including his training and the kinds of investigations he participated in.

In the second interview session, conducted in the winter of 1992, Wyatt discusses his service as a bombardier in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He talks about practicing law in Astoria after his discharge, including getting involved in Republican politics. He talks about some of the cases he worked on, including some regarding commercial fishing. He speaks at length about his involvement in the 1952 presidential election and his relationship with U.S. Senator Wayne Morse. Wyatt discusses his time in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1964 to 1975. He talks about his appointment to take over A. Walter Norblad's seat, as well as his later re-election campaigns. He discusses the Lyndon Johnson administration, including the legislation of the Great Society Era and the Vietnam War. He then discusses the Richard Nixon administration, including Nixon's resignation and some of the accomplishments of the administration.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on March 24, 1992, Wyatt continues to discuss his time in the U.S. House of Representatives. He then describes legislation that he wishes were possible, including gun control. He reflects on what he accomplished on behalf of Oregon during his time in the House and his reasons for not running for re-election in 1975. He goes on to discuss returning to Oregon to practice law. He also talks about his involvement with the U.S. District Court of Oregon, and he briefly discusses many of the judges appointed to the various courts in Oregon. He closes the interview by discussing his opinions on recent environmental debates.

Wyatt, Wendell William, 1917-2009

Oral history interview with Randall B. Kester [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Randall B. Kester was conducted by Tom B. Stoel, Jr. at Kester’s office in Portland, Oregon, from April 2-14, 1992. Throughout the interview, supplemental items are referenced. They are part of the related U.S. District Court of Oregon Historical Society Collection, Coll 560.In this interview, Kester discusses his family background and early life in Bloomington, Wisconsin, and in Ontario, Oregon. He talks about attending Willamette University during the Depression, including his social life, some of his professors, and his involvement in student government. He then talks about attending the Columbia University Law School in New York, including some of his classes and professors. He discusses returning to Oregon to practice law in Portland, including taking the Oregon bar exam. He talks about his marriage to Rachael Woodhouse and describes the law firm of Maguire, Shields & Morrison. He talks about arguing cases in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, particularly before Judge James Alger Fee. He also describes some of the cases he handled.While Kester does not discuss his time as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1957 to 1958, an incomplete transcript of the interview contains a brief description of that period of his life.Kester discusses serving as general solicitor for the Union Pacific Railroad from 1958 to 1979. He talks about some of the cases he handled for the company, including the acquisition of the Portland Traction Company. He also discusses other cases he handled, including his involvement in Yasui v. United States. He also talks about judges he argued before, including Hall Lusk and Claude McColloch. He talks about his involvement with various Oregon Bar committees and other civic organizations. He also talks about his involvement with the Mazamas and his other outdoor activities. He closes the interview by speaking again about his work as general solicitor for Union Pacific.

Kester, Randall B., 1916-2012

Oral history interview with Kernan H. Bagley [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Kernan H. Bagley was conducted by Brent E. Turvey from February 9 to March 17, 1993. In this interview, Bagley discusses his family background and early life on a farm near Portland, Oregon, particularly the experience of growing up black in a predominantly white area, as well as his early education and religious upbringing. He talks about the importance of role models for young African Americans, citing Multnomah County sheriff Don E. Clark as one of his own. He speaks at length about family and social values. He talks briefly about his college education; meeting his wife, Shirlene Peacher, and starting a family; and getting started in his law enforcement career. He discusses serving as a deputy Multnomah County sheriff and the discrimination he faced there. He then talks about serving as a U.S. marshal, the duties of the marshals, and the political process of his appointment to deputy U.S. marshal for the District of Oregon. He describes the popular perception of the U.S. marshals versus the reality; the process of prisoner transportation; and his thoughts on police brutality and the recent Rodney King video. He closes the interview by discussing the prison system, including its funding and effectiveness at rehabilitation.

Bagley, Kernan H., 1936-

Oral history interview with Hattie Bratzel Kremen [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Hattie Bratzel Kremen was conducted by Susan C. Glen from April 22 to June 10, 1995. In this interview, Bratzel Kremen discusses her family background and early life in Mulino, Gresham, Silverton and Salem, Oregon, including facing anti-German sentiment during World War I, working on the family orchard, and her education. She discusses the limited career opportunities open to women, her decision to pursue work as a secretary in law offices, and working as a court reporter. She then talks about attending Northwestern College of Law (which later became a part of Lewis and Clark College) at age 37, including her professors, her women classmates, and working full time as a court reporter while studying. She also describes serving as a court reporter for Judge James T. Brown at the Nuremberg Trials in 1947, as well as her travels around post-war Europe. She talks about her first race for the office of Marion County district attorney in 1951. She discusses practicing law in Salem, including representing mothers in custody cases. She then discusses her service as Marion County district attorney from 1956 to 1964, including cases she prosecuted and the long hours she kept. She briefly talks about her marriage to Leonard Kremen, as well as his family background and early life. She then discusses her return to private practice in 1964 and focusing largely on probate law. She closes the interview by talking about her travels.

Kremen, Hattie Bratzel, 1908-1996

Oral history interview with Selma J. Denecke [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Selma J. Denecke was conducted by Elizabeth Meyer at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland, Oregon, from March 17 to June 23, 1999. In this interview, Denecke discusses her family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including her early education and her memories of the Depression. She also talks about her interest in art and music and attending Scripps College in Claremont, California. She talks about working at the Portland Art Museum during World War II. She discusses meeting Arno H. Denecke and their subsequent marriage. Denecke describes Arno Denecke’s service in the U.S. Army in Europe during World War II, as well as their long-distance courtship. She talks about Arno Denecke’s career from professor at the University of Oregon Law School to chief justice of the Oregon Supreme Court. She discusses raising a family, as well as the prenatal and maternity care she received.

Denecke, Selma J. (Selma Jane), 1919-2009

Oral history interview with Helen F. Althaus [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Helen F. Althaus was conducted by Mary Ellen Page Farr in Ashland, Oregon, from March 13, 1999, to June 18, 2000. In this interview, Althaus discusses her family background, particularly her family’s history of civil rights activism, and her early life on a farm in Troutdale, Oregon, including her education, her interest in science, and her social life. She discusses her experiences as law clerk for Judge James Alger Fee, from 1947 to 1949. She talks about practicing law in Portland, Oregon, with the law firm King Miller, now known as Miller Nash, from 1953 to 1970, including some of the cases she argued and other women lawyers she worked with. She closes the interview by briefly discussing her work as deputy city attorney for Portland from 1949 to 1953.

Althaus, Helen F.

Oral history interview with Noreen Saltveit McGraw [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Noreen Saltveit McGraw was conducted by S. Diane Rynerson from May 24 to July 31, 2000. In this interview, McGraw discusses practicing law in Medford, Oregon, with her father, Edward Cantwell Kelly; about trying to find a job with a different law firm and the overt sexism she faced; and about working as an assistant U.S. attorney general in Portland, Oregon, under Robert Y. Thornton. She discusses some of the cases she tried, including on worker compensation. She then tells the story of defending the D’Autremont brothers in a train robbery case. She talks about practicing law while raising children; about arguing cases before U.S. District Court judges Gus Solomon and Robert Belloni; and about cases she argued in Spanish, particularly cases regarding migrant worker rights. She then talks about other women lawyers and the difficulty they had breaking into the legal profession, as well as women’s legal organizations in Oregon. She also talks about living in Mexico with her husband, Carl Saltveit, and children, as well as studying Spanish at Portland State University during the Vietnam War. She describes her involvement in Robert F. Kennedy’s campaign for the Democratic nomination for president in 1968. McGraw talks briefly about serving as a district judge pro tempore from 1972 to 1976. She discusses the increase in women entering the legal profession, particularly the number of women entering law school later in their lives; her pro-bono work for Legal Aid; and working as a criminal trial lawyer. She talks about many of the cases she worked on, including one regarding the Mount Hood Freeway. She then speaks about serving as city judge for Medford in the 1950s and appearing on the TV show “What’s My Line?” She closes the interview by discussing her experience in law school and a trip she took to Europe while awaiting her bar exam results.

McGraw, Noreen Saltveit, 1934-

Oral history interview with Thomas Cooney [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Thomas Cooney was conducted by Lisa A. Kaner from October 17 to November 2, 2000. In this interview, Cooney discusses his family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including his interest in drama and golf, and his memories of World War II. He then discusses attending the University of Portland, including being a cheerleader. He also briefly discusses his service in the Air Force during the Korean War. He relates several unfortunate incidents involving a pogo stick. He describes studying law at Willamette University, including his social life. He then talks about raising a family and coaching his son’s basketball team. He describes getting started in law practice in Portland, Oregon, at MacGuire, Shields, Morrison, and Bailey, including several of the cases he tried. He then speaks at length about representing the Oregon Medical Association while a partner at Cooney & Crew and several of the malpractice suits he tried. He also relates several anecdotes about his life and being a lawyer.

Cooney, Thomas E., 1931-2015

Oral history interview with Katherine Huff O'Neil Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Katherine Huff O’Neil was conducted by Patricia Wlodarczyk from November 3, 2000, to May 9, 2001. At O'Neil's request sections of sessions 2 and 3 of the interview were redacted by the U.S. District Court of Oregon Historical Society and the Oregon Historical Society. In addition to the interview, the collection includes a digital photograph album in PDF format containing photographs of O’Neil’s family, friends, and colleagues. All but two of the digital photographs used to create the album are also included in JPEG format.

In this interview, O’Neil discusses her family background and early life in New Orleans, Louisiana, including her early education, family vacations, and race relations in the South. She talks about studying political science at Stanford University, including her social life and her year studying abroad at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. She then briefly discusses her involvement with the Republican Party and working for the Young Republicans in Washington, D.C. She talks about studying law at Harvard University, including her experience as a female student, as well as meeting Mike O’Neil and their subsequent marriage. She talks about raising a family; relocating to Tigard, Oregon, in 1964; and working as a correspondent for the Community Press and the Oregonian newspaper. She discusses studying law at Northwestern School of Law at Lewis and Clark College, including her fellow law students.

O’Neil discusses practicing law in Portland. She talks about her first job with a law firm and sexist attitudes she faced as a woman lawyer, as well as racist attitudes she observed in her fellow lawyers. She talks about her fellow lawyers, judges she argued before, and some of the cases she worked on, particularly regarding admiralty law. She describes each of the law firms she worked for during her career. She also talks about trips to China in 1983 and 1985; her involvement in the formation of Oregon Women Lawyers; and serving as a pro-tem judge on the Multnomah County Circuit Court. She discusses her plans for retirement; her children and their careers and their families; and serving on the American Bar Association House of Delegates. She also speaks about her involvement with the Oregon Bar Association. She talks about changes in the law profession and her role in the investigation of U.S. Senator Bob Packwood. O’Neil closes the interview by discussing people who influenced her to pursue a career as a lawyer.

O'Neil, Katherine Huff, 1938-

Oral history interview with Barrie J. Herbold [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Barrie J. Herbold was conducted by Lisa A. Kaner from September 19-26, 2001. In this interview, Herbold discusses her family background and early life, including moving around often due to her father’s Navy career. She speaks briefly about attending the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Oregon Law School, and about the sexism women college students faced. She talks about practicing law in Portland, Oregon, including her experience as the first woman trial attorney at the Dusendorf, Spears, Lubersky law firm. She describes starting a law firm with Dave Markowitz, the lawyers she hired, and cases she handled.

Herbold, Barrie J. (Barrie Jane), 1949-2001

Oral history interview with George M. Joseph [Index]

Index. This oral history interview with George M. Joseph was conducted by Michael O’Rourke at Joseph’s home in Portland, Oregon, from August 7 to November 7, 2001, and on February 25, 2002. The portion of the interview recorded on February 25, 2002, was conducted at the Friendship Health Center in Portland, where Joseph was recovering from a broken leg. The first tape of this 27-tape interview features a brief overview of Joseph’s entire life and career. Beginning from Tape 2 of this interview, Joseph discusses his family background and early life in Boise, Idaho, including a store his mother ran in Boise, and the early death of his father from tuberculosis of the bone. He also describes a 1938 visit from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Boise; his awareness of the Depression; the Mormon community in Boise; and his family’s own Catholicism. He also speaks about contracting polio as a child and the lifelong physical issues it caused, as well as his memories of the internment of Japanese-Americans, and other events, during World War II. He then discusses his education, including attending Menlo School in Atherton, California, and Boise Junior College (now Boise State University) in Boise, Idaho; hitchhiking home; and his social life. He also discusses attending the University of San Francisco and Reed College in Portland, Oregon, including his social life and the development of his political views. He speaks at length about a recurrence of polio during his senior year at Reed and the extensive treatment and physical therapy he undertook as a result. He then talks about studying law at the University of Chicago, including his divorce from his first wife, Elizabeth Kalisher, and subsequent marriage to Elizabeth Starr, as well as coming to the realization that he did not want to be a lawyer. He describes Elizabeth Starr’s family background and early life, as well as their wedding and honeymoon. He also talks about his involvement with the Democratic Party, particularly acting as an alternate delegate for the 1956 Democratic National Convention.

Joseph discusses his return to Oregon in 1955 and his early legal career as a law clerk for Oregon Supreme Court Justice George Rossman. He briefly describes the judges on the Oregon Supreme Court at that time, as well as some of the cases Rossman presided over. He discusses teaching law at many different universities outside Oregon, including Ohio Northern University. He then describes working in the Multnomah County district attorney’s office under George Van Hoomisen, as well as his ambitions of becoming a judge. He talks about several cases he prosecuted and making a name for himself as a criminal appellate prosecutor; the focus of the district attorney’s office on vice cases, including an undercover operation that Joseph compromised; and civil rights cases he was involved with, particularly involving the people with mental illnesses. He talks about the creation of the Oregon Court of Appeals and the subsequent increase in the workload of the district attorney’s office; Jacob B. Tanzer and other county-level judges; and his relationship with Multnomah County sheriff, and later Multnomah County commissioner, Don E. Clark. He then talks about his brief career as a lawyer in various private law firms in Portland, his involvement in the passage of the Multnomah County Home Rule Charter, and his ongoing attempts to become a judge. He speaks at length about Multnomah County politics and Don Clark’s accomplishments as county commissioner. He talks about serving as Multnomah County counsel, including working on public power and city-county consolidation. He also discusses briefly teaching at Lewis & Clark College.

Joseph next discusses serving as a judge on the Oregon Court of Appeals from 1977 to 1992. He describes the other judges on the court, including Robert Y. Thornton, Herbert M. Schwab, Betty Roberts, Jason D. Lee and William L. Richardson. He talks about writing opinions, the types of cases he heard, and his staff. He also describes the procedures and operating practices of the court. He shares his observations on the changes in the Oregon Supreme Court since the creation of the Oregon Court of Appeals. He talks about serving as chief judge from 1981 to 1992. He closes the interview by discussing his service on the Board of Bar Examiners and his involvement in the creation of a uniform bar exam, as well as reforms that have been made to the Oregon court system.

Joseph, George Manley, 1930-2003

Oral history interview with Roosevelt Robinson [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Roosevelt Robinson was conducted by Clark Hansen at Robinson's home in Portland, Oregon, from February 12 to March 10, 2004. In this interview, Robsinson discusses his family background and early life in Georgia; he describes life as a black person in the segregated South, his early education, and growing up on a farm. He talks about attending Southwestern Christian College in Texas, and moving to Portland, Oregon, after graduation. He describes working for National Biscuit Company (now known as Nabisco Inc.), racism he faced in Oregon, and his marriage to and later divorce from Beverlee Foreman. He then talks about giving up plans to become a minister and instead attending Northwestern School of Law at Lewis & Clark College. He also talks about taking the Oregon Bar exam.Robinson discusses starting his private law practice in Portland. He talks about arguing cases before Judge Gus Solomon and some of the cases he handled. He then discusses working as a Multnomah County deputy district attorney. He talks about cases he prosecuted (and a few he chose not to prosecute), and arguing against public defenders. He also discusses systemic racism in the criminal justice system. He discusses serving on the Oregon Parole Board, including some of the decisions he made. He discusses serving as a judge on the Multnomah County Circuit Court, including his appointment in 1990. He also talks about his involvement with the Oregon Bar Association, as well as numerous other organizations. He discusses cases he heard on the Circuit Court, judicial procedure, and programs to reduce recidivism. He discusses his involvement with the community court program and the drug diversion court program. He closes the interview by talking about his children, their families, and their careers; his health; and the Roosevelt Robinson scholarship fund.

Robinson, Roosevelt, 1941-2004

Oral history interview with Helen J. Frye [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Helen J. Frye was conducted by Clark Hansen at the Mark O. Hatfield Federal Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from January 9 to May 20, 2002. In this interview, Frye discusses her family background and early life in Klamath Falls, Oregon. She talks about her mother and brother contracting tuberculosis; how she was raised by her grandparents; and her early education. She then discusses attending the University of Oregon, including her professors; her involvement in student government and politics in general; and meeting Bill Frye and their subsequent marriage. She talks about teaching high school in Eugene, raising a family, and returning to the University of Oregon to study law.Frye briefly discusses practicing law in Eugene and specializing in adoption. She talks about serving as a judge on the Lane County Circuit Court, including her appointment by Governor Tom McCall. She also discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court, including her appointment by President Jimmy Carter. She talks about the cases she heard; judges she served with; and court procedure. She discusses sentencing; the role of dissent in lower courts; and the role of juries. She closes the interview by discussing her legal philosophy and how her opinions have evolved over the years.

Frye, Helen J. (Helen Jackson), 1930-

Oral history interview with Edward Leavy [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Edward Leavy was conducted by Clark Hansen in Leavy’s chambers at the U.S. District Courthouse (known as the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse) in Portland, Oregon, from March 2 to April 13, 2004. The portion of the interview conducted on March 30, 2004 (Tapes 10 through 12) appears to have been simultaneously recorded on audiocassette and video. In the audio recording, the parties make reference to the video recording, which is not included in this collection.

In this interview, Leavy discusses his family background and early life on a hops farm in Butteville, Oregon, including his memories of the Depression and his education. He talks about attending the University of Portland and studying at Notre Dame Law School, including his reasons for attending Catholic schools. He also speaks about how his faith informs his morality and judicial decisions, particularly regarding the Fifth Amendment. He discusses serving as a deputy district attorney for Lane County and some of the cases he prosecuted. He reflects at length upon the byzantine workings of the justice system, its strengths and weaknesses, and a judge’s role within it.

Leavy discusses his election to the positions of Lane County District Court judge and Circuit Court judge, as well as the elections of other judges in Oregon. He talks about some of the cases he heard and some decisions of his that were reversed. He speaks at length about many of the judges he knew, including Ted Goodwin and Otto Skopil. He discusses the differences between state and federal courts. Leavy describes the magistrate system during the years he was a U.S. Magistrate for the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He then speaks at length about mediating cases and reaching settlements. He discusses some controversial issues he’s had to rule on, including drug use, the death penalty, and abortion. He also speaks briefly about his family life.

Leavy discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, beginning with his appointment by President Ronald Reagan in 1987. He discusses some of the cases he heard, including on Rajneeshpuram. He describes the various duties of federal judges; the processes and procedures of the Court of Appeals; and how it differs from the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He talks about his experience as a senior judge on the Court of Appeals since 1997, including mediating for U.S. v. Wen Ho Lee. He then talks about serving on the Surveillance Court of Review from 2001 to 2008, including the history and duties of that court. He also talks about writing opinions, his staff and law clerks, and the workload on the Court of Appeals. He closes the interview by discussing his thoughts on the trend of civil penalties in lieu of criminal, and concerns about the right to privacy.

Leavy, Edward, 1929-

Oral history interview with Stephen M. Bloom [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Stephen M. Bloom was conducted by Donna Sinclair at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from April 19 to May 2, 2005, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in three sessions, and a transcript is available. Part of the third session was recorded simultaneously on audiocassette and videocassette.

In the first interview session, conducted on April 19, 2005, Bloom discusses his family background and early life in San Francisco and in the San Fernando Valley, California, including his education, his relationship with his siblings, and the death of his mother when he was 10 years old. He briefly talks about studying law at Willamette University, and speaks about his children, their education, and their careers.

In the second interview session, conducted on April 20, 2005, Bloom discusses his experiences at Stanford University and in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps during the Vietnam War. He discusses practicing law in Pendleton, Oregon, and speaks at length about cases he worked on in the field of water law. He also talks about working as a pro tem judge for the Umatilla Indian Reservation; speaks further about studying law at Willamette University; and talks about his marriage to Becky Nelson after his second year of law school. He also briefly speaks about working in the district attorney's office in Pendleton. He talks about serving as a magistrate judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1988 to 2005. He describes the duties of a magistrate judge, talks about following sentencing guidelines, and shares some of the cases he heard.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on May 2, 2005, Bloom continues to discuss serving as a magistrate judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1988 to 2005, and to talk about some of the cases he heard. He also continues to speak about practicing law in Pendleton and about cases he worked on in the field of water law. He closes the interview by discussing his involvement in several organizations, including Legal Aid Services of Oregon and the Peace Corps.

Bloom, Stephen M. (Stephen Michael), 1948-

Oral history interview with Malcolm Marsh [Transcript]

Transcript. This oral history interview with Malcolm Marsh was conducted by Clark Hansen from January 27 to May 10, 2005, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in three sessions, all held in Marsh's chambers at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland, Oregon. Part of the third session was recorded simultaneously on audiocassette and videocassette.

In the first interview session, conducted on January 27, 2005, Marsh speaks at length about his family background. He talks about his early life in McMinnville, Oregon, including his education, his family's experiences during the Depression, and his memories of life during World War II. He also briefly talks about his service in the U.S. Army in Japan just after the end of the war. He then discusses his experience studying law at the University of Oregon, including some of his classes and professors. He talks about his marriage to Shari Long. He speaks about practicing law in Salem with his law partner, Ned Clark, and describes how he came to specialize in product liability cases. He discusses his Christian faith, and also talks about how it affects his choices during sentencing. He talks about his appointment to the U.S. District Court of Oregon in 1987. He speaks at length about political polarization in the U.S., and shares his thoughts about how to address it. He talks about his professional ethics, discusses his reasons for taking senior status in 1998, and shares stories about arguing cases before Judge Gus Solomon.

In the second interview session, conducted on January 28, 2005, Marsh discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He talks about adjusting to the workload of a judge, discusses members of his staff and his fellow judges, and describes the role of magistrate judges. He shares his thoughts about the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals; talks about his process for preparing for trial; and speaks at length about sentencing guidelines. He discusses some of the cases he presided over, particularly cases regarding salmon fisheries and the Rajneeshees. He talks about his law clerks; shares his opinion on personality traits that make a good judge; and discusses the increase in case settlements, and decrease in jury trials.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on May 10, 2005, Marsh discusses efforts to streamline the U.S. District Court of Oregon, including the use of magistrate judges. He speaks about working with U.S. Attorney Chuck Turner; talks about the increase in cases relating to drugs; and revisits the topic of sentencing guidelines. He shares how his thoughts on immigration laws changed over his career; shares his opinion regarding concerns about judicial activism; and talks about when judges should retire. He also revisits the topic of his reasons for taking senior status. He talks about how his judicial philosophy changed and reflects on his career. He debates the merits of both restorative and retributive justice. He speaks about the role of law clerks, about judges' salaries, and about his role in the construction of the Mark O. Hatfield United States District Courthouse in Portland. He discusses working with Mark Hatfield and John Dellenback. He speaks about his marriage to Shari Long, and about balancing his Christian faith and his role as a judge. He closes the interview by talking about the importance of family.

Marsh, Malcolm

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