Founding Partners

Jesse N. Bowen (1879-1938)

Jesse N. Bowen was a graduate of the University of Maryland Law Class of 1905. It was at the University of Maryland where he met the acquaintance of fellow law student John E. Semmes, Jr. After graduation he went to work in Mr. Semmes' father's firm of Steele & Semmes. In 1909, the two classmates became partners and the name of the firm changed to Semmes, Bowen & Semmes. Mr. Bowen was urged by Governor Ritchie to accept appointment to the Supreme Bench of Baltimore City, but he declined the offer. He was twice elected President of the Bar Association of Baltimore City, the only one who ever served two terms, 1924-26.

During James W. Chapman's term as President of the MSBA, Mr. Bowen served as Secretary. He died during his term as 43rd President of the MSBA on May 18, 1938, at his home at 2929 North Calvert Street. He was associated with Semmes, Bowen & Semmes for 33 years and served as Partner for 29 years.

John E. Semmes | Jesse N. Bowen | John E. Semmes, Jr.