The Catholic Knight Who Stopped Slavery in West Africa

Sir James Marshall, a Catholic knight and former Chief Justice, helped end slavery in the Gold Coast and Nigeria through his work in secular legal roles.

After losing his right arm in a boating accident, Marshall transitioned from Anglican ministry to the Catholic Church. Following a suggestion from John Henry Newman to study law, he became a barrister and taught classics at the Oratory School.

Marshall served as Chief Magistrate to the Gold Coast starting in 1873 and was later appointed to Nigeria in 1887. In these positions, he worked to liberate men, women, and children from slavery. He also used his personal generosity and volunteer efforts to support Catholic missionary work in Africa. Marshall is buried in the Catholic cemetery at Mortlake in South West London.