PORT ANGELES — Clallam County Commissioners have expressed support for a memorial honoring the late Washington Supreme Court Justice Susan Owens, who died March 28. The proposal was presented by the Olympic Peninsula Chapter of the Washington Women Lawyers Association, which suggested a bench and plaque near the courthouse flagpole.
“She comes from an era when it wasn’t easy—and certainly not the norm—for women to become lawyers. Around here, we have only so many examples, so I think she continues to serve as an important role model for young women in our community and the wider community as a whole,” said chapter President Natalie Columbus.
Owens, the first woman judge on Clallam County District Court, also served tribal courts and was elected to the state Supreme Court in 2000. She retired in December upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75.
The group is open to ideas for the memorial and has consulted the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe to ensure her legacy is fully recognized.
County Facilities Director Don Crawford says county staff will now evaluate possible locations and logistical considerations before making a recommendation.
“Most of the time, we’re talking about benches, tables, small plaques—things that don’t usually rise to the level of the County Commissioners. But we’ve heard there’s a lot of interest in the courthouse, so that makes it more important for you to set the direction,” said Crawford.
Commissioners noted that a separate plaque is also planned for the in Forks where Owens served as a Clallam County District Court Judge.