Last Friday brought the sad news that Judge John C. North had passed away at the ripe age of 94
Just a few months ago, I had interviewed the judge to help spread the word about the Bugatti exhibition at the Academy Art Museum. We talked at length that day about the show and his contributions of both cars and knowledge to what has been the AAM’s most successful exhibit to date, which celebrated the famed automobile designer family. But before we began that conversation, the judge was in a reflective mood, and we spent nearly as much time talking about his own life and his love for log canoes.
It was a rare moment with this native son of the Eastern Shore. The only child of a Talbot County lawyer, he earned his law degree at Harvard before returning home to practice and eventually joining the Maryland bench. With his rich vocabulary and formal manners, he carried one back to another era in his telling of his upbringing and love of boats.
That unplanned digression, before the “real” interview, lasted nearly 20 minutes. At the time, I told him I would someday produce another video that included this material, and he was delighted by the idea. That “someday” came sooner than expected. For a man known for his love of precision in language, it feels fitting that he told his story in his own words.
This video is approximately 18 minutes in length.
Bob Kopec says
Sad news indeed. Allowing his Bugatti collection to be exhibited at the Academy Art Museum was very special.
Joan Hennighausen says
He had an amazing mind. In 2024 he recited Poe’s poem Annabelle Lee to me completely without a moments hesitation. I’ll never forget it. There will never be another Judge North. I will remember him always.
Douglas Firth says
It’s been several days since we heard the sad, but not unexpected, news that our beloved “Judge” had left us. After watching this interview. The Judge kept the Log Canoe Class alive. The Judge and the North family welcomed many people representing multiple generations to log canoe sailing. If you had a pulse and were curious about sailing or the log canoe, you were welcomed into the family. We will miss you Judge but never forget you!!
Dan Watson says
You should have heard his distain for a split infinitive! I once did a first draft of an article for him, and surely would have burned in hell had he not edited out that sinful mistake.
DW
David Back says
I met Judge North at the Bugatti Family Art display at the Academy Art Museum, when he walked over to me, graciously held out his hand and introduced himself. I had been asked earlier in the day by David if I would stay to photograph their family and friends during the event closing, which was such an honor. The entire North family was so kind and welcoming as a circulated through the gathering capturing som amazing photographs. Judge North rewarded me for my work by insisting I sit in his elegant Bugatti. I was in a state of euphoria as I marveled the experience. In all the years of photographing sensational collections, I was never granted such an experience. I have a deep passion for motoring that began in 1963, and this was truly a moment I will always cherish. Thank you Judge North for sharing your passion.
Linda Blythe says
Wonderful interview with “The Judge.” I sailed on the Edmee S for five years in the 80’s. He was a gentlemen and a wonderful sailor. I learned a lot from him and appreciated his understated and courtly manner. A good man.