Constantine Joseph Smyth

Constantine Joseph Smyth (December 4, 1859 – April 14, 1924) was Chief Justice of the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia.

Education and career

Smyth was born in County Cavan, Ireland on December 4, 1859, a son of Brian and Rose (Clark) Smyth. His family came to the United States in 1870, and the family settled in Nebraska. In 1878, Smyth moved to Omaha to attend college. He graduated from Creighton University with an AB degree in 1882. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1885.

Federal judicial service

Smyth was nominated by President Woodrow Wilson on June 29, 1917, to the Chief Justice seat on the Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia vacated by Chief Justice Seth Shepard. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 12, 1917, and received his commission the same day. His service terminated on April 14, 1924, due to his death.