When crafting the character of Josiah Sutton, the protagonist of my Western novel series, I wanted to delve into his life before he found himself navigating the rugged terrains of Northern New Mexico. In 1880, Josiah Sutton was a lawyer in New York, a profession as challenging and multifaceted as the frontier itself. The life of a lawyer during this time reflected a rapidly changing America, with the industrial revolution, burgeoning cities, and evolving legal frameworks shaping their daily realities.

                                                                                             The Legal Profession in 1880

 A Time of Rapid Change

New York City in 1880 was a bustling metropolis at the forefront of economic and social transformation. Lawyers like Josiah Sutton were essential figures in this dynamic environment, handling cases that ranged from burgeoning corporate law to criminal defense and family disputes. The city’s legal profession was expanding alongside the growth of commerce, infrastructure, and immigration.

Diverse Clientele and Cases

New York lawyers in the late 19th century dealt with an array of clients. Wealthy industrialists required legal assistance for contracts, mergers, and patent disputes, while immigrants sought help navigating property issues, citizenship, and labor laws. This diversity gave lawyers a unique perspective on the complexities of society, which I channeled into Josiah Sutton’s character—a man shaped by the varied lives he encountered.

The Challenges of the Legal System

The legal system of 1880 was both intricate and, at times, inequitable. Many lawyers operated in a world where legal codes were being standardized, but precedents were still being set. For Josiah, this meant navigating a legal landscape filled with ambiguity and ethical dilemmas, themes I weave into his internal struggles and decisions throughout the series.

                                                                                                                          Life in a Bustling City

 A Hub of Opportunity

For lawyers in 1880, New York was a land of opportunity and ambition. The city was a hub for trade and innovation, and legal professionals played a critical role in managing disputes and formalizing agreements. Josiah Sutton’s legal career in this environment speaks to his ambition and intellect, qualities that serve him well as he transitions to the unpredictable challenges of the frontier.

The Demands of the Profession

Lawyers worked long hours, often in crowded offices filled with books, ledgers, and documents. Communication relied on letters and in-person meetings, making the profession a demanding and often exhausting endeavor. These realities shaped Josiah’s character—a man accustomed to meticulous detail and intellectual rigor.

Cultural and Social Influences

New York’s vibrant culture also influenced its lawyers. From attending the theater to engaging in spirited debates at social clubs, professionals like Josiah were immersed in the city’s intellectual and cultural life. This exposure broadened their horizons, a stark contrast to the simplicity and solitude of frontier living that Josiah would later encounter.

                                                                                              Inspiration for Josiah Sutton’s Journey

Josiah Sutton’s background as a New York lawyer provides a compelling contrast to his life in Northern New Mexico. His legal expertise, shaped by the fast-paced world of 1880s New York, becomes both an asset and a challenge in the untamed West. Where New York demanded precision and negotiation, the frontier requires courage and adaptability.

By exploring Josiah’s life as a lawyer, I aimed to highlight how his experiences in one of the most sophisticated cities of the time influence his approach to the moral and physical dilemmas he faces in the wilderness. The juxtaposition of these two worlds not only deepens his character but also reflects the broader themes of transformation and resilience that define the Western genre.

                                                                                            Conclusion: From Courtrooms to Frontiers

The life of a New York lawyer in 1880 was a fascinating blend of intellect, ambition, and societal engagement. For Josiah Sutton, it served as a crucible, honing the skills and traits that he would later rely on in the harsh landscapes of Northern New Mexico. By bringing these elements into his backstory, I aimed to create a protagonist whose journey bridges two very different yet equally compelling worlds. Josiah’s story is one of growth, adaptation, and the enduring quest for justice—no matter the setting.

Turning dust to ink,

Adam Drumm