Bernard Crosby Whitman (1828-1885): Chief Justice of the Nevada Supreme Court

Chief Justice Bernard Whitman and Grave Marker

Plot 21 Lot 2

Bernard Crosby Whitman (1827–1885) was a prominent figure in 19th-century law and politics, leaving an indelible mark on both California and Nevada during his career. Born in Waltham, Massachusetts, Whitman was the son of attorney Levi Whitman and the nephew of Ezekiel Whitman, a Chief Justice of Maine's Supreme Judicial Court. He graduated from Harvard College in 1846 and pursued legal studies under the mentorship of the Portland, Maine law firm Fessenden & Deblois before being admitted to the bar in 1849.

Whitman moved to San Francisco, California, in 1850 during the Gold Rush era. He quickly became involved in law and politics, serving as a member of the California State Assembly when the state capital was located in Benicia. His tenure as a legislator coincided with a transformative period for California as it worked to establish its governance structures. After his time in the legislature, he served as the Benicia City Clerk, further contributing to the development of this early California capital.

In 1864, Whitman relocated to Virginia City, Nevada, during the height of the Comstock Lode mining boom. His legal expertise positioned him as a key figure in litigation surrounding mining claims and disputes, which were central to the region's economy at the time. His reputation for integrity and skill earned him an appointment to the Nevada Supreme Court in 1868. Whitman served on the court for over six years, including a term as Chief Justice from 1873 to 1874. As Chief Justice, he was lauded for his quick grasp of complex cases, thorough knowledge of legal principles, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Mary Elizabeth Church Whitman and Crosby Church Whitman, who are also listed on the grave marker, were integral parts of Bernard Crosby Whitman's family, each contributing to the family's remarkable legacy. However, these are likely cenotaphs, as Crosby was cremated and buried at Suresnes American Cemetery outside of Paris, while records show his mother's ashes were brought to the American Cathedral in Paris.

Mary Elizabeth Church was born in Albion, Michigan, in 1842 and moved to California as a child, settling in Nevada County. She married Bernard Whitman on July 14, 1858, when she was just 16 years old. Their union marked the beginning of a partnership that spanned Bernard's political and legal career. Mary Elizabeth was educated at Mills College when it was known as the Benicia Female Seminary. 

Crosby Whitman's ashes are likely in France

Crosby Church Whitman, their only child, was born in Benicia in 1864 during Bernard's tenure as a legislator and city clerk. Crosby pursued an illustrious career in medicine after graduating from Harvard College in 1886. He studied medicine in France and Germany and practiced briefly at Johns Hopkins before dedicating much of his life to medical service in France. Crosby became one of the founding physicians of the American Hospital in Neuilly-sur-Seine near Paris. During World War I, he organized a field hospital under the French Red Cross to treat wounded soldiers. His tireless efforts during the war eventually led to his death from exhaustion in 1916.

In private life, Whitman was admired for his refined manners and dedication to his family. His colleagues remembered him as a kind and courteous associate whose contributions enriched Nevada's legal system. After retiring from public service in Nevada, he returned to California in 1882 and continued practicing law until his death from an apoplectic stroke on August 5, 1885.