Sir James Marshall ends slavery in West Africa

Sir James Marshall, a Catholic layman and former Chief Justice, helped end a cruel form of slavery in West Africa, according to a report by Joanna Bogle for The Catholic Thing. Serving in secular roles in the Gold Coast and Nigeria, Marshall was responsible for liberating many men, women, and children.

Marshall was appointed Chief Magistrate to the Gold Coast in 1873 and later served as Chief Justice in Nigeria in 1887. His work covered territories that are now known as Ghana and Nigeria. Beyond his legal career, he supported Catholic missionary work in Africa through his generosity and volunteer efforts.

After losing his right arm in a boating accident as a young man, Marshall initially entered the Anglican ministry before joining the Catholic Church. Following a suggestion from John Henry Newman, he studied law and became a barrister. He also taught classics at the Oratory School. Marshall is buried in the Catholic cemetery at Mortlake in southwest London.