James Keith (jurist)

James Keith (September 7, 1839 - 1917) was born in Fauquier County, Virginia. He received his early education in local schools and studied law under Professor John B. Minor at the University of Virginia. During the American Civil War, he was a member of the famous Black Horse Cavalry and served for the duration. After the war, he resumed his law studies under John M. Forbes, a prominent lawyer in Warrenton. He was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 1869 and served in the session of 1869—70. In late 1870, he was elected as judge of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, composed of Alexandria, Fauquier and surrounding counties. He was only thirty years old at that time. Having established an outstanding record as a circuit judge until January 1, 1895, he was then elected to the Supreme Court of Appeals in 1895 and soon he was made president of that court. He continued as a judge and president until he retired in June 1916, dying just a year later.