Serranus Clinton Hastings, American lawyer and politician, 1st Chief Justice of California (b. 1814)

Serranus Clinton Hastings (November 22, 1814 – February 18, 1893) was an influential American politician, astute rancher, and prominent lawyer whose career spanned both Iowa and California. A figure of significant, yet increasingly complex, legacy, Hastings left an indelible mark on the legal and educational landscape of the United States, culminating in the founding of a major law institution.

Early Life and Formative Years in Iowa

Born in 1814, Serranus Clinton Hastings embarked on his legal journey as a young man, dedicating himself to the study of law. His ambitions led him westward in 1837, settling in the burgeoning Iowa District where he promptly established his own law practice. The region's rapid development saw Iowa declared a territory just a year later, and Hastings quickly rose to prominence, earning election as a member of the House of Representatives of the Iowa Territorial General Assembly. His political career continued to flourish as Iowa achieved statehood in 1846, at which point he successfully campaigned to represent the newly formed state in the United States House of Representatives. Following his term in national office, Hastings returned to the state judiciary, ascending to the esteemed position of Chief Justice of the Iowa Supreme Court, a testament to his legal acumen and public trust in the Hawkeye State.

A New Chapter in California: Law, Politics, and Fortune

After a singular year serving as Chief Justice of Iowa's highest court, Hastings made a pivotal decision, resigning his post and moving to the rapidly developing state of California. His reputation preceded him, as within months of his arrival, he was appointed Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, demonstrating his immediate impact on the West Coast's legal framework. Not content with this judicial role alone, Hastings later won an election to become Attorney General of California, assuming office shortly after his term as Chief Justice concluded. During his tenure as Attorney General, he continued to actively practice law, skillfully accumulating a significant personal fortune. This wealth, shrewdly earned from his legal practice, served as the foundation for his highly successful real estate ventures, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in California's economic and political spheres.

Founding a Legacy: Hastings College of the Law

Driven by a commitment to legal education and a desire to contribute to the public good, Serranus Clinton Hastings channeled a portion of his considerable wealth into establishing a lasting institution. In 1878, he founded the renowned Hastings College of the Law, making a substantial initial donation of US$100,000. This foundational gift cemented his name in the annals of legal education, creating a vital center for legal scholarship and training in California and beyond. The institution quickly became a significant part of the University of California system, known for its rigorous academic programs.

Historical Reckoning and the College's Future

In recent years, the historical legacy of Serranus Clinton Hastings has been subject to intense scrutiny. Responding to disturbing press reports detailing his involvement in the killing and dispossession of Yuki people during the 1850s, the Hastings College of the Law initiated a thorough investigation. In 2020, a commission formed by the college concluded with undeniable clarity that Serranus Clinton Hastings had indeed participated in the California genocide in Mendocino County, California. While the commission, at that time, opposed a change in the college's name, the weight of these findings ultimately led to further action. In November 2021, the Board of Directors of UC Hastings made a definitive decision, voting to change the name of the institution in light of its founder's documented role in these historical atrocities, marking a significant moment of historical reckoning for the esteemed law school.

Frequently Asked Questions about Serranus Clinton Hastings

Who was Serranus Clinton Hastings?

Serranus Clinton Hastings (1814-1893) was an American politician, rancher, and lawyer who served as Chief Justice of both the Iowa and California Supreme Courts, Attorney General of California, and founded the Hastings College of the Law.

When and where did he begin his legal and political career?

He began his legal career in the Iowa District in 1837, eventually serving in the Iowa Territorial General Assembly and the U.S. House of Representatives for the state of Iowa.

What significant roles did he hold in California?

In California, Serranus Clinton Hastings served as Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court and later as Attorney General of California.

What major institution did Serranus Clinton Hastings found?

He founded the Hastings College of the Law in 1878 with a donation of US$100,000, which is now part of the University of California system.

Why is Serranus Clinton Hastings' legacy controversial?

His legacy is controversial due to his documented involvement in the killing and dispossessing of Yuki people in the 1850s, an act that a college commission in 2020 concluded constituted participation in the California genocide.

What is the current status of the Hastings College of the Law's name?

In November 2021, the Board of Directors of UC Hastings voted to change the name of the institution in response to findings about Serranus Clinton Hastings' participation in the California genocide.