Elbert Tuttle

Elbert Parr Tuttle (July 17, 1897 - June 23, 1996), one of the "Fifth Circuit Four", and a liberal Republican from Georgia, was chief judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit 1950s and 1960s, when that court became known for a series of decisions crucial in advancing the civil rights of African-Americans. At that time, the Fifth Circuit included not only Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas (its jurisdiction as of 2004), but also Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and the Canal Zone.

Tuttle was born in Pasadena, California. In 1906, his family moved to Hawaii where he attended high school. In October 1910 together with his brother Malcolm he built and flew the first glider in Hawaii. Tuttle then attended Cornell University and fought in World War I. Tuttle was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and the Sphinx Head Society.

Tuttle was a reporter for the New York Evening World for several years while going though law school. After graduating from law school, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia to practice law with the law firm of Sutherland, Tuttle & Brennan. (The firm is today named Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP.)

Tuttle mainly worked on tax litigation, but also did pro bono work and worked with the American Civil Liberties Union, including doing numerous civil rights cases. Tuttle served in World War II and was awarded numerous medals for his service including the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, and the Bronze Service Arrowhead. Tuttle was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1981.

After the War, Tuttle became more involved in politics, working with the Republican Party due to his opposition to segregation. Tuttle was soon appointed to the Fifth Circuit, where he had a role in many cases involving Civil Rights.

In 1981, Tuttle was transferred to the new Eleventh Circuit, and continued to serve as a senior judge until his death.

References

• Jack Bass, "The 'Fifth Circuit Four'", The Nation, May 3, 2004, p. 30-32.
• New Georgia Encyclopedia: Elbert Parr Tuttle
• Eleventh Circuit profile
• Story about the first glider flight in Hawaii