Prescott H. Butler

Prescott Hall Butler was a son of Charles E. Butler, an old Centurion who, with Mr. William M. Evarts, founded sixty years ago the law firm which afterwards became Evarts, Choate, & Beaman, of which Prescott Hall Butler was a member from 1874 until the time of his death. He was born on Staten Island, March 8th, 1848, and was named for Jonathan Prescott Hall, an eminent lawyer of that time, with whom his father was associated when he formed his partnership with Mr. Evarts, and who continued thereafter to have professional relations with that firm. Mr. Butler was graduated at Harvard in 1869 and studied law in the office of his father’s firm, being admitted to the bar in 1873. While his professional employment was large and varied, his time and attention were for many years more especially engaged in the management of trusts and estates, in which he acquired a well-deserved reputation for skill and sound judgment, wise counsel, and devotion to the interests entrusted to his charge. Of a generous, kindly, and sympathetic nature, he was notably vigorous and resolute in character, having the courage of his opinion to a marked degree, and never hesitating in his support of what he believed to be right. His professional and social acquaintance was large and varied, he enjoyed their respect and esteem, and had won the affection and regard of a host of friends. “Truth, honor, and friendship were his watchwords,” says one who knew him long and well.

Edward Cary
1902 Century Association Yearbook