Yesterday (July 9) the Bennington County Bar Association and County Court participated in the Judiciary’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The audience gathered at the historic Court House in downtown Bennington. A portrait of Moses Robinson, the first chief justice of Vermont, was dedicated in the courtroom. The Hon. Robert Mello (ret.), author of “Moses Robinson and the Founding of Vermont” offered remarks. Other speakers included Chief Justice Reiber and Al Dean, Esq. Dean spoke about Justice Samuel Blackmer (1902–1951) of Bennington, who served at various times as Supreme Court Justice, Superior Court Judge, Bennington State’s Attorney, Representative in the State House, and Governor Aiken’s Executive Clerk. Historian Joe Hall gave a brief talk on the history of the courthouse and the Hon. John Valente, presiding judge of the Bennington County Criminal Court, readministered the lawyer’s oath for the attorneys in attendance.
The Bennington County event is one of many planned around the state in conjunction with the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. You can see more photos and find out more about the events at the Judiciary’s 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence web page.
Thanks to VBA President Elect Kate Lamson for the photographs below.
