Archives West Finding Aid

Born in Waverly, Ohio on October 27, 1888, Malcolm Douglas was the son of James A. and Elizabeth Douglas. Malcolm graduated with a bachelors of philosophy from Ohio University in 1909. He taught school in Wichita, Kansas, and then in Spokane, Washington, to earn money for law school. Douglas attended the University of Washington and received his law degree there in 1914. After graduation, Douglas served in World War I, primarily as an artillery captain with the 2nd (Indian Head) Division in France. He was discharged as a major in 1919 and was awarded the Silver Star and the French Croix de Guerre.

Upon his return to Washington, Douglas continued practicing as an Attorney at Law. In 1920, he ran for county prosecutor, and won, defeating Dr. Edwin C. Brown. He served as Prosecutor from 1921-1924. In 1925, Douglas ran for Position No. 1 on the King County Superior Court bench and defeated long-sitting Judge Boyd J. Tallman.

Douglas remained in the reserves as a commanding officer in the 362nd Reserve Field Artillery and was summoned to active duty in 1942. He served as a Colonel in Dwight D. Eisenhower's headquarters during World War II in London making preinvasion plans. At his discharge he was awarded the Bronze Star and the French Cross of Honor of the Legion of Honor. In 1947, he returned to his bench following his military leave of absence. At his retirement on December 31, 1963, Douglas had served 39 years as a King County Superior Court Judge, one of the longest serving judges in Washington State history. Malcolm Douglas died on November 17, 1968 at age 80.