MSS 87-01
The Papers of Chief Justice Earl Warren
Digitized Content
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Archives Record
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Dates
- Creation: 1951-1974
Extent
- .3 Linear feet
Abstract
Personal correspondence, photographs, memorabilia and a shotgun that belonged to Chief Justice Warren, 1951-1974.
Acquisition Information
This collection was donated to the Law Library in 1987 by Wallace Lynn, a California businessman and rancher who was a long-time friend of Warren.
Biographical / Historical Note
Earl Warren (1891-1974) was the 14th Chief Justice of the United States. Before becoming Chief Justice, Warren was Govenor of California as well as a district attorney for Alameda County, California, and Attorney General of California.
Earl Warren and Wallace Lynn (1897-1990) became friends in the 1920's while Warren was serving as the deputy district attorney for Alameda County. Over the years, the two men went duck-hunting on Lynn’s property, attended ball games and other activities together, and exchanged notes and gifts. When Warren was retiring from the Supreme Court, Justice Brennan was charged with choosing a gift from all the justices and sought Lynn’s advice. Lynn suggested a special shotgun that he knew Warren admired, so the justices had one customized for him. Upon his death the gun was given to Lynn, who alos donated it to the Library.
Scope and Content
The Chief Justice Earl Warren collection is a small compilation of correspondence, clippings, memorabilia, and letters related to Chief Justice Warren's career and friendships.