The matriarch of a prestigious family and wife of the respected jurist Billings Learned Hand, Frances Amelia Fincke Hand (1876–1963) was a prominent figure in early 20th-century America. She raised their three girls and supported her husband’s work with her brains and strength. This page details her life and family.
Early Life
In Utica, New York, Frances Amelia Fincke was born June 12, 1876. She was raised by Frederick Getman Fincke and Mary Ann Deshon Wood, who nurtured her.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | June 12, 1876 |
| Birthplace | Utica, New York |
| Parents | Frederick Getman Fincke, Mary Ann Deshon Wood |
Marriage to Billings Learned Hand
On December 3, 1902, Frances married Billings Learned Hand. Their marriage began a partnership that merged his judicial career with her motherly support.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Billings Learned Hand |
| Marriage Date | December 3, 1902 |
| Notable Event | Supported his judicial career |
Children
Mary Deshon, Frances Lydia, and Constance were Frances and Billings Hand’s daughters. Each daughter continued their parents’ tradition by excelling in diverse fields.
| Daughter | Birth Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mary Deshon Hand | 1905 | Married and had children |
| Frances Lydia Hand | 1907 | Engaged in social causes |
| Constance Hand | 1909 | Lifelong contributor to culture |
Frances Amelia Fincke Hand’s Influence
Frances helped shape the family values and give her girls a well-rounded education. Her influence was felt in their literary and social activism.
| Influence | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Advocated for quality education for daughters |
| Values | Emphasized integrity and service to community |
| Social Causes | Supported various philanthropic efforts |
Billings Learned Hand’s Legacy
Billings Learned Hand was one of the most influential 20th-century American judges. District and Appeals Courts. His legal thought shaped American law.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | January 27, 1872 |
| Death Date | August 18, 1961 |
| Judicial Positions | U.S. District Court Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals Judge |
Family Connections
The Hand family had blood and professional ties to many noteworthy people. Lawyers, professors, and activists have shaped American society.
| Relative | Relationship | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Samuel Hand | Father of Billings | Influential lawyer |
| Lydia Coit Learned | Mother of Billings | Family matriarch |
| Richard Jordan | Grandson of Frances | Continuing the family legacy |
Final Years
After a full life, Frances Amelia Fincke Hand died on December 12, 1963, at 87. Her family and community remember her.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Death Date | December 12, 1963 |
| Age at Death | 87 |
| Burial Place | Albany Rural Cemetery |
FAQ
What was Frances Amelia Fincke Hand’s family role?
Frances Amelia Fincke Hand supported her husband’s work and raised her daughters with education and social values.
How many children did Frances and Billings Hand have?
Mary Deshon, Frances Lydia, and Constance Hand, Frances and Billings’ daughters, continued the family history.
What distinguished Billings Learned Hand?
Billings Learned Hand, one of the most influential judges of the 20th century, influenced several judicial precedents.
Frances Amelia Fincke Hand died when?
Frances Amelia Fincke Hand died on December 12, 1963, leaving family and service to society.
