The Honourable John Howard Sissons (1892 - 1969) Inducted 1966

In his memoirs, a fascinating book written with humour and wit, John Howard Sissons tells us that it was the life of his cousin, David Livingstone, the African explorer, who instilled in him his hatred of injustice, his understanding and affection for our Indians and Eskimos and his dedication to bring justice to these people. His youthful life of hunting, fishing and trapping around Brough's Creek, helped him to understand some of the cases before him in later life.

His summer employment on the wards of the "Asylum", where his father was chief attendant, helped him to recognize the signs of mental instability, and the knowledge of epilepsy assisted him in many a trial to weigh the degree of responsibility. Mr. Isaac Day, the school inspector, was his mentor, and at his urging he continued his education to become a lawyer.

After a successful legal career, Jack Sissons accepted a tremendous challenge to become the first judge of the Territorial Court of the Northwest Territories. He insisted that "justice be taken to every man's door, and a man must be tried by a jury of his peers." This necessitated extensive travel by aircraft and dogsled, holding trials in remote communities.

A man of great moral stature, he was sensitive and caring and showed great insight into the Eskimo background and culture. His decisions relating to hunting rights, native marriage and adoption have become legal landmarks in spite of bitter opposition by the bureaucrats in Ottawa. He became a legend to the native people and was called "EKOKTOEGEE" - "the one who listens to things" - by the Inuit. He retired to Edmonton in 1966 and wrote his memoirs. Orillia is proud of the Honourable John Howard Sissons.