Baker, James Addison
Huntsville, Walker County, Texas
Marker Inscription
James Addison Baker was born to Jane Saxton and Elijah Adam Baker on March 3, 1821 near Huntsville, Alabama. He was admitted to the Bar in 1843 and wed Caroline Hightower in 1849. She died in 1852, and he moved that year to join her family members in Huntsville, Texas, where he established a law practice. The next year, he wed Rowena Crawford. The two worked together to advance Huntsville education. An active Mason and Presbyterian, Baker also became a successful politician, jurist and soldier. In 1872, he joined an existing law firm that, over time, became known as Baker Botts, today one of the Nation's leading legal firms, still led by his descendants.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
James Addison Baker came to Huntsville in 1852 as a widowed young lawyer and built a life as jurist, soldier, Mason, and civic booster of local education. In 1872 he joined the law partnership that would grow into Baker Botts — today one of the nation's premier firms, still guided by his descendants. His career links a frontier Texas courthouse to a legal dynasty of national reach.
Why it matters
He founded an institution whose influence would eventually touch American law, business, and statecraft for generations.
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Related people
- · James Addison Baker
- · Rowena Crawford Baker
Themes & tags
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