Edward Bowen (politician)
Edward Bowen (December 1, 1780 – April 11, 1866) was an Irish-born lawyer, judge and political figure in Lower Canada. He was the first Chief Justice of the Superior Court for provincial Quebec, the second Chancellor of Bishop's University, in Sherbrooke, and the first King's Counsel in Lower Canada in 1809.
The Honourable Edward Bowen | |
|---|---|
| |
| In office 1849–1866 | |
| Succeeded by | The Hon. Sir William Collis Meredith QC |
| 2nd Chancellor of Bishop's University | |
| In office 1856–1858 | |
| Preceded by | The Hon. William Walker |
| Succeeded by | The Hon. John Samuel McCord |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 1, 1780 Kinsale, County Cork |
| Died | April 11, 1866 (aged 85) Quebec City |
| Resting place | Mount Hermon Cemetery, Sillery |
| Spouse | Eliza Davidson |
| Children | 16 |
| Residences |
|
| Alma mater | Drogheda Academy |
| Profession |
|
Bowen's success in Eastern/French Canada came from his "family relationships, social connections, his numerous office positions, and his ability." However, Bowen also solidified his status as an elite in colonial affairs by "working together with the British commercial bourgeoisie, monopolizing executive and state patronage in posts, land speculation, and contracts, and controlling much of the legislative power." What made Bowen himself the man to go to with legal issues in Quebec in particular, was the fact that "Bowen had a good knowledge of the French and of French laws - unlike many within the aforementioned administrating group of the Colony following and representing British rule onto the Lower and Upper/Eastern and Western Canadians.