Judge Calvin Maples Cureton
historical marker
In Austin, Travis County, a historical marker commemorates Judge Calvin Maples Cureton. Born on September 1, 1874, in Bosque County, Texas, he passed away on April 8, 1940, in Austin. Cureton had a distinguished career in Texas public service. He served two terms in the Texas legislature from 1909 to 1913. He was also the first Assistant Attorney General from 1913 to 1918, and then Texas Attorney General until 1921. That year, Governor Pat M. Neff appointed him Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court. Judge Cureton held this significant position until his death in 1940, becoming the longest-serving Chief Justice in the court's first century. During his time on the bench, his legal interpretations promoted the development of Texas resources, particularly in areas of industrial and oil activity, and he authored many opinions concerning water and irrigation rights. This marker, erected in 1971 by the State Historical Survey Committee, recognizes his lasting impact on Texas jurisprudence.