The Hidden History of Essex Law School

Book excerpt: When law librarian Tom Jones is tapped by Dean Oberal to write the history for the one-hundred-year anniversary celebration of Essex Law School, he takes his assignment seriously. He soon discovers that the task will involve many challenges and will reveal even more surprises. Such is the case when Tom interviews Mary McCarthy, who served as the secretary to the schools founder, Dean Seth Adams. Mary is a legend at the school, and she says that the history Tom is writing wont reflect half of what she really knows. Mary reveals some interesting information about her relationship with Adams. Tom also calls on Caleb Cushing, the schools oldest alumnus, who believes he graduated in either 1910 or 1911. Cushing not only has flavorful stories to tell about his law career, but is also a colorful character in his own right. As Tom pulls together the pieces from the schools one hundred years, he learns some tidbits that might not be fit to print. For Tom, this project provides an eye-opening glimpse into the legal world of academia with a sidelight into its interesting social aspects.