Hon. Edward M. Paxson
Judge Edward M. Paxson (1824–1905) was not only a respected jurist in Pennsylvania but also a community builder whose generosity continues to shape Newtown more than a century later.
Born in Bucks County to a long line of Quakers, Paxson began his career in printing and journalism before reading law under Henry Chapman. He was admitted to the bar in 1850, served as a judge of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, and later rose to Chief Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court (1889–1893). His legal career was marked by fairness, integrity, and a deep commitment to public service.
His greatest legacy, however, was his role as a community builder. In 1899, Judge Paxson and his wife Mary C. Newlin Paxson financed and oversaw the construction of Paxson Hall, built expressly to be given to the Friends Boarding Home of Bucks Quarterly Meeting. The gift was dedicated to his parents, Thomas and Ann Johnson Paxson, reflecting both family devotion and Quaker values of integrity and community.
Paxson encouraged the Quarterly Meeting to share in this vision by offering to match their $10,000 contribution, ultimately giving a total of $30,000 himself — a remarkable sum at the time. Through this act, he ensured that older adults of modest means would have a home rooted in dignity, fellowship, and belonging.
Gifted to in 1900, Paxson Hall marks its 125th anniversary as a living testament to Judge Paxson’s enduring vision and generosity.
Today, Paxson Hall remains as a testament to his vision of community rooted in dignity and simplicity. Friends Village honors Judge Paxson as a true community builder whose gift has provided a home and fellowship for generations.