March 3, 2009

Fitch Even partner Steven Parmelee and marketing coordinator Ania Garratt attended a recent program at the Federal Courthouse in Chicago to observe the 190th anniversary of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The Honorable James Holderman offered introductory remarks and was followed by Richard Cahan, author of A Court That Shaped America. Mr. Cahan presented an anecdote-filled history lesson on the Court using the portraits of the judges displayed in the James Benton Parson Memorial Courtroom in his presentation. The Honorable William Bauer then moderated a panel of former and current judges, who shared their thoughts regarding the direction of the Court in the years to come.

This gathering then adjourned to the 2nd floor “Jury Room” to enjoy a catered reception and a ribbon-cutting for an exhibition providing information and artifacts relating to the 190 year history of the Federal bench in Illinois. This exhibit is open to the public and will run through April.. This impressive exhibit is filled with information regarding significant moments and “firsts” in the Court’s history. We recommend this exhibit to anyone who happens to be passing through, or near, Chicago’s Federal Courthouse.