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United States District Court Oral History Project United States District Court of Oregon Historical Society Series
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Oral history interview with Hans A. Linde

This oral history interview with Hans A. Linde was conducted in 23 sessions from January 15, 2002, to February 3, 2004, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. Rick Harmon conducted sessions 1 and 2, and Michael O'Rourke conducted the remaining sessions. Sessions 1-3, 5-16, and 18-23 were conducted in Linde's office at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon; Session 4 was conducted at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland; and Session 17 was conducted at Linde's home in Salem.

In sessions 1-4, Linde discusses his family background and early life in a Jewish family in Berlin, Germany; talks about his adolescence in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 1933 to 1937; and talks about his high school experience in Portland, Oregon, after 1939. He describes his service in the U.S. Army during World War II, talks about his marriage to Helen Tucker, and discusses his experience at Reed College.

In sessions 5-10, Linde discusses his law school experience at the University of California, Berkeley. He speaks at length about working as a law clerk for U.S. Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas from 1950 to 1951, including his experience living in Washington, D.C., law clerks he worked with, and cases he worked on. He discusses his work for the United Nations General Assembly from 1951 to 1953. He talks about teaching law at the University of Oregon in 1954 and about his experiences as U.S. Senator Richard Neuberger's legislative aide from 1955 to 1958. He also begins to discuss his career as a professor of law at the University of Oregon in Eugene from 1959 to 1976.

In sessions 11-14, Linde continues to speak about teaching law at the University of Oregon from 1959 to 1976. He talks about working as a visiting professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, and in Fribourg, Switzerland, and Hamburg, Germany.

In sessions 15-20, Linde discusses his service as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1977 to 1990. He talks about cases the court heard, about his 1984 re-election campaign, and about his fellow justices. He speaks about criminal justice and sentencing. He also discusses his health and talks about recoving from heart attacks and strokes during his time on the court. He speaks at length about his involvement with the American Law Institute, and talks about the ALI style manual.

In sessions 21-23, Linde discusses his activities since his retirement from the Oregon Supreme Court in 1990, including speaking engagements, consulting on law in Russia and China, and his involvement with Oregon Public Broadcasting. He speaks about a trip to Australia in 1996 and his experience having bypass surgery while in Australia. He discusses his involvement with the Oregon Law Commission from 1997 to the time of the interview. He discusses his role at Willamette University at the time of the interview, and talks about the development of the university's law school.

Linde, Hans A.

Oral history interview with Edwin J. Peterson

This oral history interview with Edwin J. Peterson was conducted by Jeffrey C. Dobbins in Salem, Oregon, from August 21 to December 11, 2007, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in thirteen sessions. Throughout the interview, Peterson refers to photographs and letters. Copies of some, but not all, of these items are included in the related U.S. District Court of Oregon Historical Society collection, Coll 560.

In the first interview session, conducted on August 21, 2007, Peterson discusses his family background in Gilmanton, Wisconsin, including the local creamery managed by his father; his childhood activities; and his early education. He also talks about his memories of rural life during World War II.

In the second interview session, conducted on August 28, 2007, Peterson continues to discuss his early life in Gilmanton, and his memories of life during World War II. He then discusses having asthma and moving to Oregon in 1944 in an effort to improve his health. He looks at photographs of his home and family in Gilmanton and discusses them.

In the third interview session, conducted on September 4, 2007, Peterson discusses his high school experience in Eugene, Oregon. He talks about studying music at the University of Oregon, including his social life and his summer activities.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on September 11, 2007, Peterson continues to discuss his college experiences at the University of Oregon, including his involvement with the Young Republicans. He describes his service as a personnel officer in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, particularly his experience in administration. He shares his memories of the Cold War.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on September 18, 2007, Peterson discusses attending the University of Oregon Law School. He talks about the dean, Orlando Hollis; his social life; and his summer jobs. He talks about relocating to Portland to practice law at Tooze, Kerr, Peterson, Marshall & Shenker.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on September 25, 2007, Peterson discusses practicing law in Portland. He speaks at length about cases he tried, about fellow lawyers, and about judges he argued before. He particularly focuses on trial preparation and procedures.

In the seventh interview session, conducted on October 9, 2007, Peterson speaks further about University of Oregon Law School Dean Orlando Hollis, then continues to discuss practicing law in Portland. He also talks about his involvement with the Oregon State Bar, and his friendship with Clay Myers.

In the eighth interview session, conducted on October 16, 2007, Peterson continues to discuss practicing law in Portland. He reflects on his career as a lawyer, talks about cases he worked on, and discusses settling out of court. He shares an anecdote about his appointment to the Oregon Supreme Court in 1979.

In the ninth interview session, conducted on October 23, 2007, Peterson discusses the procedures of the Multnomah County Circuit Court and the Oregon Court of Appeals, and talks about judges who served on those courts. He also shows the interviewer, Jeffrey Dobbins, his collection of photographs and speaks about them at length.

In the tenth interview session, conducted on October 30, 2007, Peterson continues to discuss his photograph collection. He then speaks about his service as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1979 to 1993. He describes his fellow justices on the court. He discusses the procedures of the Supreme Court, cases he heard, and his re-election in 1980.

In the eleventh interview session, conducted on November 6, 2007, Peterson continues to discuss his service as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1979 to 1993. He talks about serving as chief justice from 1983 to 1991, including implementing an integrated court system, the court's budget, and the court's staff. He reads entries from his journals detailing this part of his career.

In the twelfth interview session, conducted on November 13, 2007, Peterson continues to discuss his service as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1979 to 1993, and serving as chief justice from 1983 to 1991. He talks about implementing the uniform trial court rules. He also discusses the changes in technology, rules of professionalism, and diversity training. He reads additional entries from his journals detailing this part of his career.

In the thirteenth and final interview session, conducted on December 11, 2007, Peterson closes the interview by talking about his activities since retiring in 1993, including teaching at the Willamette University Law School and working as a mediator.

Peterson, Edwin J. (Edwin Junior), 1930-2023

Oral history interview with Windsor D. Calkins

This oral history interview with Windsor D. Calkins was conducted by Monica D. LaRosa in Eugene, Oregon, from March 25 to May 8, 2008, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in three sessions, and a transcript is available.

In the first interview session, conducted on March 25, 2008, Calkins discusses his family background and early life in Eugene, including his early interest in music. He talks about his education at the University of Oregon and at Willamette University Law School, and about some of his professors. He discusses practicing law with his father, Windsor Calkins, in Eugene. He speaks at length about his father's career.

In the second interview session, conducted on April 10, 2008, Calkins continues to discuss his early life in Eugene, including his early childhood health, his recreational activities, and his relationship with his parents. He speaks further about his family background and about his education at the University of Oregon and at Willamette University Law School. He describes taking the Oregon bar exam in 1971, talks about working as a law clerk, and continues to discuss practicing law with his father. He talks about the law firm staff; about some of their clients, particularly insurance companies; and about cases he worked on, including medical malpractice suits. He discusses the legal community in Oregon and his involvement in several civic organizations.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on May 8, 2008, Calkins discusses his marriage to Judy VanCleave, and talks about their family life. He also talks about his children, their families, and their careers; about the houses the family lived in; and about family vacations. He continues to discuss practicing law with his father, and talks about changes in the legal profession, about medical malpractice cases he worked on, and about his experiences in federal courts and with federal judges. He also talks about how changes in technology affected his work. He closes the interview by reflecting on his career, and his work-life balance.

Calkins, Windsor D. (Windsor Dean), 1944-2018

Oral history interview with Otto Skopil

This oral history interview with Otto Skopil was conducted by Clark Hansen at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, on June 21, 2006, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was recorded simultaneously on audiocassette and videocassette; Videocassette 1 corresponds to Audiocassette 1, and Videocassette 2 corresponds to Audiocassette 2. A transcript of the interview is available.

In this interview, Skopil briefly discusses his family background, his early life in Salem, and his experiences at Willamette University and in the Navy. He speaks about practicing law in Salem, including some of the cases he worked on, and arguing cases before Judge Gus Solomon. He discusses his service as a judge, and later as chief judge, on the U.S. District Court of Oregon, including some of the cases he heard, and talks about his role in the development of the court's magistrate judge system. He discusses his 1979 appointment to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and talks about his service as a judge on that court from 1979 to the time of the interview. He shares some of the cases he heard, talks about the reasons for the court's large workload, and discusses the court's role as an interpreter of federal law. He talks about dissenting opinions among the judges, about calls to split the Ninth Circuit, and about working with law clerks. He speaks about his involvement with the Federal Courts Study Committee. He closes the interview by reflecting on his judicial career.

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

Oral history interview with Thomas M. Coffin

This oral history interview with Thomas M. Coffin was conducted by Makaela Kroin in Coffin's chambers at the Mark O. Hatfield Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from May 2, 2018, to November 1, 2019, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in six sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on May 2, 2018, Coffin discusses his family background at length, beginning in the year 1066. He talks about his early life in St. Louis, Missouri, including his education, his childhood role models, and playing sports.

In the second interview session, conducted on September 4, 2018, Coffin discusses his college experiences at a Catholic seminary, at St. Benedict College in Atchinson, Kansas, and at Harvard Law School. He shares his reasons for choosing to attend seminary, and speaks further about his early life. He shares how his childhood and college experiences shaped his world outlook. He speaks at length about a college roommate who was later murdered as a result of working as an informant for the FBI; shares anecdotes about serving in the Reserve Officer Training Corps during the Vietnam War; and discusses his political views. He talks about his experiences as a volunteer defense attorney while a student at Harvard.

In the third interview session, conducted on October 5, 2018, Coffin discusses working as a federal prosecutor for the U.S. attorney's office in San Diego, California, from 1971 to 1980. He speaks at length about cases he tried, particularly drug-related cases. He discusses how he grew as a trial lawyer and shares his prosecutorial philosophy. He also shares his thoughts about the U.S. government's treatment of immigrants and refugees at the U.S.-Mexico border at the time of the interview. He then talks about his marriage to Penelope Teaff, and shares a story about an encounter with the Hells Angels.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on April 17, 2019, Coffin shares his reasons for moving to the Pacific Northwest and discusses his work as a federal prosecutor at the U.S. attorney's office in Eugene, Oregon, from 1980 to 1992. He describes how the Eugene office grew, talks about his work on methamphetamine-related cases, and discusses his relationship with the district attorney's office. He talks about how he continued to develop as a prosecutor during his time at the Eugene U.S. attorney's office, and speaks further about his prosecutorial philosophy. He talks about raising a family in Eugene. He then talks about his service as a magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He discusses some of the cases he handled, particularly a case involving disability discrimination in golf. He describes the District Court's use of pre-trial conferences, and talks about working on settlements.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on May 9, 2019, Coffin continues to discuss his service as a magistrate judge. He talks about the importance of integrity as a judge, shares his concerns regarding the political climate at the time of the interview, and discusses how his work as a prosecutor prepared him for the role of judge. He speaks further about the case regarding disability discrimination in golf, discusses his process for writing opinions, and shares his reasons for occasionally delivering oral opinions. He also tells a story about a memorable case he prosecuted in San Diego. He speaks further about his reasons for moving to the Pacific Northwest in 1980.

In the sixth and final interview session, conducted on November 1, 2019, Coffin continues to discuss his service as a magistrate judge, talks about cases he heard, and shares his judicial philosophy. He speaks further about his concerns regarding the U.S. government's treatment of refugees and immigrants at the U.S.-Mexico border at the time of the interview. He shares personal anecdotes, talks further about mediating settlements, and discusses his recreational activities. He shares his opinion of President Donald J. Trump and Republican politics at the time of the interview.

Coffin, Thomas M. (Thomas Michael), 1945-

Oral history interview with Anna J. Brown

This oral history interview with Anna J. Brown was conducted by Jan Dilg in Portland, Oregon, from October 31, 2019, to October 8, 2020, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in eight sessions; the first sessions were conducted in Brown's chambers at the Mark O. Hatfield Courthouse, and sessions six through eight were held at Brown's home.

In the first interview session, conducted on October 31, 2019, Brown discusses her family background, including the experiences of her parents in Germany during World War II, and their experiences as German immigrants in Portland in the 1950s and 1960s. She talks about her early life in the Sellwood neighborhood of Portland, including taking care of her mother after she had a stroke in 1968, her experiences as a child of German immigrants, and her education at Catholic schools. She discusses her college experience at Lewis and Clark College and at Portland State University. She then speaks about her experiences studying law at Northwestern College of Law and working as a law clerk. She talks about getting a job as a lawyer for the Bullivant firm in Portland, about her first day in court, and about her strategies as an introvert for managing the responsibilities of a lawyer and judge.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 13, 2019, Brown speaks further about many of the topics covered in the first session. She talks about her marriage to Paul Brown, and speaks at length about cases she worked on as a lawyer with the Bullivant law firm in Portland.

In the third interview session, conducted on January 16, 2020, Brown discusses her involvement in professional associations, including the Oregon State Bar, the Multnomah County Bar, and the Oregon Association of Defense Counsel. She shares her experiences as a woman in the legal profession in the 1980s, and talks about the importance of diversity on the bench. She speaks about her service as a judge on the Multnomah County Circuit Court from 1992 to 1994 and on the Multnomah County District Court from 1994 to 1999, including her appointment process and about learning how to be a judge on the job. She describes the differences between being a state judge and a federal judge, talks about cases she presided over, and discusses the use of technology in both state and federal courtrooms.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on February 6, 2020, Brown discusses her involvement with the Oregon Women Lawyers and the Oregon Women Judges associations. She speaks about the history of women on the Oregon bench, and further discusses her service on the Multnomah County Circuit and District courts. She describes the courtrooms she worked in, talks about people she worked with, and discusses how technology was used in courtrooms at the time of the interview. She talks about the case administration systems of the state and federal courts, discusses her experience presiding over Philip Morris v. Williams, and speaks about sentencing guidelines. She closes the session by summing up her legal career.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on February 20, 2020, Brown discusses her service as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1999 to the time of the interview. She speaks at length about her appointment and describes her investiture. She talks about her law clerks, about attending training for new judges, and about her fellow judges. She discusses how technology has changed the way judges and law clerks conduct research, talks about the cost of access to legal databases and research materials.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on September 3, 2020, Brown discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic and the George Floyd protests affected the operations of the Mark O. Hatfield Courthouse during the summer of 2020. She then continues to discuss her service as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. She speaks further about judges she worked with on the bench, and describes her early days as a District Court judge. She discusses the role of magistrate judges in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, talks about how the court protects witnesses, and discusses differences in the way districts operate. She discusses her process for making decisions and how the COVID-19 pandemic affected that process. She talks about the history of the U.S. District Court of Oregon, then shares her reasons for taking senior status in 2017.

In the seventh interview session, conducted on September 17, 2020, Brown continues to discuss her service as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. She describes how she manages her courtroom, and talks about cases she heard, particularly cases regarding the federal no-fly list and the occupation of the Malheur Wildlife Refuge. She talks about how she interacts with juries, about her involvement in professional associations, and about lawyers and judges who mentored her.

In the eighth and final interview session, conducted on October 8, 2020, Brown discusses her methods for mentoring aspiring lawyers, including through internships, high school mock trial programs, and speaking to law school students at Lewis and Clark College. She talks about her involvement with the Inns of Court association, about her official judicial portrait, and about receiving a lifetime service award from the U.S. District Court of Oregon Historical Society. She shares her judicial philosophy and discusses how her background influences her philosophy. She then speaks further about her reasons for taking senior status in 2017 and about her activities since then. She closes the interview by talking about her plans for the future.

Brown, Anna J., 1952-

Oral history interview with Robert E. Jones

This oral history interview with Robert E. Jones was conducted by Clark Hansen at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from September 12 to October 14, 2005, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in five sessions. The first four interview sessions were recorded on audiocassette; the final session was recorded on videocassette. The transcript includes a foreword by Owen Panner and an introduction by Donna Sinclair, as well as several autobiographical addendums by Robert E. Jones.

In the first interview session, conducted on September 12, 2005, Jones discusses his family background and early life in Portland, including his experiences during the Great Depression, his social life, and working in the shipyards during World War II. He describes his service in the U.S. Navy Reserve at the end of the war and talks about how those experiences inform his worldview.

In the second interview session, conducted on September 19, 2005, Jones continues to discuss his service in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He talks about his marriage to Pearl Jensen and attending the University of Hawaii. He then discusses studying at the Northwestern School of Law and talks about practicing law from 1953 to 1963, including lawyers he worked with, cases he worked on, and judges he argued before. He talks about serving as a judge on the Multnomah County Circuit Court, including judges he served with and cases he heard. He also discusses representing Washington County in the Oregon House of Representatives during the 1963 legislative session and talks about legislation that came up during his term.

In the third interview session, conducted on September 22, 2005, Jones discusses serving on the Oregon Commission for Prison Term and Parole Standards and talks about criminal justice. He talks about teaching courses on evidence. He revisits the topic of his service as a judge on the Multnomah County Circuit Court and speaks about cases he presided over, talks about his staff, and describes how the circuit court differed from the U.S. District Court. He then briefly talks about serving as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on September 29, 2005, Jones continues to discuss serving as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court. He talks about cases he heard, justices he served with, and some of the decisions he authored. He then discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon; talks about the political process of nominating judges; and describes some of the cases he heard. He also speaks about the jury selection process.

In the fifth and final interview session, conducted on October 14, 2005, Jones continues to discuss serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He speaks further about cases he heard, and talks about technology used in the courtroom. He discusses a 1998 trip to Russia and talks about the Russian legal system. He closes the interview by talking about the most difficult aspects of being a judge.

Jones, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1927-

Oral history interview with Wendell Wyatt

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. A transcript is available.

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 John F. Kilkenny

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 John A. Jelderks

This oral history interview with John A. Jelderks was conducted by Donna Sinclair from December 19-27, 2006, and Jan Dilg from May 28 to September 16, 2009, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in five sessions. The first two sessions were recorded on audiocassette; Audiocassette 1 is missing, but its content is reflected in the interview transcript. The third and fourth sessions were recorded as digital audio files. The fifth session was recorded simultaneously as digital audio files and on videocassette; the audio files contain additional content.

In the first interview session, conducted on December 19, 2006, Jelderks discusses his family background and early life in Salem, Oregon, including his education, recreational activities, and summer jobs. He also shares his memories of life in Salem during World War II, including neighbors who fought in the war, and the U.S. government's incarceration of Japanese Americans.

In the second interview session, conducted on December 27, 2006, Jelderks discusses his experiences studying psychology and later law at Willamette University, including his involvement in a fraternity, his service in the Oregon Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force Reserve, and some of his law school professors and classmates. He shares his opinion on sentencing guidelines, discusses how the practice of law changed, and briefly talks about his first marriage and raising a family. He talks about his experience as a law clerk for Oregon Supreme Court Justice Gordon Sloan and about his relationship with other justices. He talks about his career as a district attorney for Marion and Hood River counties, and talks about some of the cases he prosecuted, including a rape case.

In the third interview session, conducted on May 28, 2009, Jelderks continues to discuss his service as Hood River County district attorney from 1966 to 1971. He describes some of the cases he prosecuted, then discusses working as a lawyer in a private practice in Hood River for a short time. He speaks about serving as a judge in Oregon's 7th judicial district. He describes the appointment process, discusses adjusting to a judge's workload, and talks about his re-election campaigns. He also discusses his unsuccessful 1988 campaign for a seat on the Oregon Supreme Court. He talks about cases he heard, particularly domestic relations cases, and about writing decisions.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on August 20, 2009, Jelderks continues to discuss serving as a judge in Oregon's 7th judicial district. He speaks at length about hearing cases regarding the Rajneeshees. He then revisits the topic of his unsuccessful campaign for a seat on the Oregon Supreme Court. He talks about the changes in his family during the 1970s and 1980s, including his second marriage, and the death of one of his children in a car collision.

In the fifth and final interview session, conducted on September 16, 2009, Jelderks discusses his involvement with the Hood River Rotary Club. He speaks at length about serving as a magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1991 to the time of the interview. He describes the appointment process, discusses the role of magistrate judges in Oregon, and talks about judges he worked with. He describes the differences between the state and federal courts, and speaks at length about his decision in the Kennewick Man case, which regarded the custody of ancient Native American remains. He closes the interview by sharing his thoughts on restorative justice, on the concept of judicial activism, and on electing judges.

Jelderks, John A. (John Anthony), 1938-

Oral history interview with Otto J. Frohnmayer

This oral history interview with Otto J. Frohnmayer was conducted by Clark Hansen at Frohnmayer's office in Medford, Oregon, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in two sessions, on November 28, 1989, and December 1, 1989.

In the first interview session, Frohnmayer discusses his family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including the reasons his family came to the United States, his education, and family vacations to Seaside. He also talks about anti-German sentiment in Portland, Oregon during World War I and how that affected him in his social and political views. He also talks about the fire that happened at Washington High School during his senior year. He discusses working in hotels and attending the University of Oregon, including his social life, studying law, and his experiences during the Depression. He talks about people and professors he met during law school, including Judge William East, and about his involvement with the Law Review.

In the second interview session, Frohnmayer shares his political and social philosophy, and how it was affected by the Depression and World War II. He discusses his early career as a lawyer in Medford, including cases he worked on, his fellow lawyers, and judges he argued before. He also talks about his involvement in several organizations, including the Rogue Valley Memorial Hospital and the Oregon State Bar; and about his involvement in politics, including leadership positions on campaign committees for Mark Hatfield and Wayne Morse. He describes the effects of World War II and the construction of Interstate 5 on Medford. He speaks at length about his work with probate law revision and how he came to focus on it. He discusses his marriage to MarAbel Fisher Braden, and talks about their children and their children's families and careers. He talks about members of the legal profession whom he worked with, and shares his opinion about the qualities that make for great lawyers and judges. He discusses the politics involved in judicial appointments; describes jury trials and appellate hearings; and talks about ethical problems that lawyers face. He also talks about how changes in the legal system have affected his practice and clientele. He closes the interview by talking about his plans for the future.

Frohnmayer, Otto J. (Otto John), 1905-2000

Oral history interview with Hugh Biggs

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, paticularly 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 John P. Cooney

This oral history interview with John P. Cooney was conducted by Clark Hansen at the U.S. District Courthouse in Medford, Oregon, from May 12 to June 17, 2005, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in two sessions, and a transcript is available. Part of the second session was recorded simultaneously on Audiocassette 3 and Videocassette 1.

In the first interview session, conducted on May 12, 2005, Cooney discusses his family background and early life in Sedalia and St. Louis, Missouri, including playing minor league baseball. He briefly talks about his marriage to Eleanor McCabe, about raising a family while studying law at Willamette University, and about practicing law in Medford, Oregon. He speaks at length about serving as a federal magistrate judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He describes the role magistrate judges play in Oregon, talks about judges, law clerks, and lawyers he worked with, and discusses the procedures of the court. He also talks about the types of cases he heard.

In the second interview session, conducted on June 17, 2005, Cooney continues to discuss serving as a federal magistrate judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon, the role magistrate judges play in Oregon, and the types of cases he heard. He shares his experience of being a judge in a small community, discusses passing sentences, and shares his judicial philosophy. He also talks about changes in technology since the beginning of his career, and how they affected his work and the design of the courthouse. He closes the interview by talking about his family life, and about his plans for retirement.

Cooney, John P. (John Patrick), 1932-

Oral history interview with Stephen M. Bloom

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

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

Oral history interview with Randall B. Kester

This oral history interview with Randall B. Kester was conducted by Donna L. Sinclair from February 21 to May 11, 2005, at Kester's office in Portland, Oregon, 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 Session 3 was recorded on both audiocassette and videocassette.

In the first interview session, conducted on February 21, 2005, Kester discusses his family background and early life, particularly focusing on his mother. He also talks about the families and careers of his siblings. He speaks about his marriage to Rachael Woodhouse and talks about raising a family. He discusses his hobbies of hiking and mountain climbing; shares his reasons for returning to Oregon after earning his law degree; and speaks about his early career as a lawyer in the 1940s. He then speaks at length about his career as general solicitor for the Union Pacific Railroad. He talks about cases he tried, about the railroading business, and about safety regulations.

In the second interview session, conducted on March 31, 2005, Kester discusses his involvement with the Forest Service Reserves during World War II. He also describes witnessing a fatal climbing accident on Mount Hood. He speaks at length about constitutional law cases he worked on while a lawyer with Maguire, Shields, Morrison, Bailey & Kester, particularly Yasui v. United States. He also talks about U.S. District Court of Oregon judges that he argued before, about laws regarding jury selection, and about the process of settling cases.

In the third interview session, conducted on May 11, 2005, Kester discusses his involvement with the Oregon State Bar's continuing legal education program. He speaks about his brief service as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1957 to 1958, including his appointment to the bench, and opinions that he wrote. He reflects on cases he worked on both as a judge and a lawyer that have had lasting effects on the field of law. He discusses the differences among the different court circuits in Oregon; talks about challenges to Oregon's land-use laws; and shares his reasons for retiring from the Supreme Court. He closes the interview by discussing the origins of the U.S. District Court of Oregon Historical Society, and the history of his law firm.

Kester, Randall B., 1916-2012

Oral history interview with Sidney Lezak

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 Owen Panner

This interview with Owen Panner was conducted by Michael O'Rourke in Portland, Oregon, on December 19, 2005. In the interview, Panner discusses mandatory sentencing and the effect of politics on the judiciary. He also talks about his plan to move to the District Court in Medford, Oregon. In addition, he discusses the structure and procedures of the District Court; technology in the courts; his involvement with the U.S. District Court Historical Society; and life on his Medford ranch.

Panner, Owen Murphy, 1924-

Oral history interview with James A. Redden

This oral history interview with James A. Redden was conducted by Michael O'Rourke in Redden's chambers at the U.S. District Court in Portland, Oregon, on January 27, 2006. In this interview, Redden discusses cases during his time as Oregon attorney general and as a U.S. District Court judge, including some involving treaties with Native Americans and fishing rights on the Columbia River, as well as the effects of the dams on salmon runs and other fisheries. He also discusses the history and impact of the U.S. District Court Historical Society; the war on terror, particularly the Patriot Act; and drug-related cases.

Redden, James A.

Oral history interview with John L. Schwabe

This oral history interview with John L. Schwabe was conducted by Alyson Gilbertson at the offices of Schwabe, Williamson, and Wyatt in Portland, Oregon, from November 30 to December 6, 1993, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in two sessions.

In the first session, conducted on November 30, 1993, Schwabe discusses his family background and early life in Oklahoma. He shares his memories of racism and anti-Semitism in Tulsa, Oklahoma, including the aftermath of the Tulsa Race Massacre in 1921. He talks about his interest in wildlife, his education, and working on the family farm. He also describes his memories of the Depression and the Dust Bowl drought. He then talks about his experience at Oklahoma A & M, now known as Oklahoma State University, including his involvement in student government, his mother's death, and his social life. He talks about his marriage to Jean Cooley. He speaks at length about his experience in the Marine Corps in the Pacific theater during World War II.

In the second session, conducted on December 6, 1993, Schwabe discusses his activities after his discharge from the Marine Corps in 1944, including his honeymoon, starting a family, and studying law at Ohio State University. He talks about the jobs he worked during law school, some of his professors, and some of his classes. He then discusses his brief return to the Marine Corps after graduation, moving to Oregon, and working as a lawyer in Salem and Silverton. He closes the interview by talking about cases he worked on and houses he lived in.

Schwabe, John L. (John Leonard), 1919-2011