Federal Judicial Center Operational Status:

Due to a lapse in appropriations, the Federal Judicial Center (Center) has ceased all non-excepted activities until funding is restored.

The Center will post any changes in operational status on this web page. Please check back for updates.

You are here

Cranch, William

Born July 17, 1769, in Weymouth, MA
Died September 1, 1855, in Washington, DC

Federal Judicial Service:
Judge, Circuit Court of the District of Columbia
Nominated by John Adams on February 28, 1801, to a new seat authorized by 2 Stat. 103. Confirmed by the Senate on March 3, 1801, and received commission on March 3, 1801. Service terminated on February 24, 1806, due to appointment to another judicial position.

Chief Judge, Circuit Court of the District of Columbia
Nominated by Thomas Jefferson on February 21, 1806, to a seat vacated by William Kilty. Confirmed by the Senate on February 24, 1806, and received commission on February 24, 1806. Service terminated on September 1, 1855, due to death.

Education:
Harvard College, 1787
Read law, 1790

Professional Career:

Private practice, Braintree, Massachusetts, 1790
Private practice, Haverhill, Massachusetts, 1790-1791
Justice of the peace, Essex County, Massachusetts
Private practice, Washington, D.C., 1791-1800
City land commissioner, Washington, D.C., 1800-1801
Reporter, Supreme Court of the United States, 1802-1815
Professor of law, Columbian College, 1826-1828