William Hunter Odell, born in 1811 in Fredericton, was a distinguished lawyer, office holder, and judge, and a descendant of an influential family, being the son of William Franklin Odell. His name honoured Major-General Martin Hunter. William’s connections included his paternal grandfather, Reverend Jonathan Odell, a loyalist poet and New Brunswick provincial secretary, and his sister’s marriage to the notable surveyor general, Thomas Baillie. William himself married Elizabeth Ann Bliss, with whom he had one son, Major William Henry Odell, and four daughters.
Odell’s education at King’s College (now UNB) paved the way for his legal career, starting as an attorney in 1835 and then as a barrister in 1838. His entry into public service was marked by controversy due to his premature appointment as clerk of the crown, sparking significant public outcry and leading to his replacement by George Frederick Street Berton. Despite this setback and ongoing conflicts, including a notorious altercation with drunken soldiers, Odell served as deputy provincial secretary and clerk of the Executive Council.
In 1847, William Hunter Odell became a judge of the Court of Common Pleas for York County. His political career included positions in the Legislative Council and the Canadian Senate, where he served from 1867, known for his quiet but steady participation. His brief political role as postmaster general in Albert James Smith’s anti-confederate administration saw him contribute through satirical verse, criticizing the federation movement humorously.
Odell’s life took a dramatic turn when he became the last New Brunswicker to participate in the last fatal duel in New Brunswick , leading to his excommunication by Bishop John Medley in 1848. He spent his later years in Halifax, where he died, leaving behind a legacy as a dignified gentleman of impeccable lineage. The Odell family line in the Maritimes ended with the death of his last unmarried daughter in 1937, a poignant close to a notable historical lineage.
This post has already been read 1275 times!
