Kensey Johns was born on June 14, 1759, in Maryland. He was the son of a prominent lawyer, and from a young age, he showed a keen interest in legal matters. During the American Revolution, he served as a minuteman, bravely fighting for his country's independence.
After the war, Johns began his legal career, quickly establishing himself as a talented attorney. His knowledge of the law and his unwavering dedication to justice earned him the title of Chancellor of Delaware. In 1794, he was appointed to the United States Senate to fill a vacancy, but his tenure was short-lived due to a lack of appropriate credentials. Despite this setback, Johns continued to make significant contributions to the legal community.
In 1792, Johns was a key member of the Delaware Constitutional Convention. His sharp legal mind and strong moral compass helped shape the state's laws and governance, leaving a lasting impact on the Delaware constitution.
Johns had a son, Kensey Junior, who followed in his father's footsteps and became Chancellor of Delaware after his passing in 1832. Johns' legacy lived on through his family, who continued his tradition of upholding justice and the rule of law.
Governor Joshua Clayton appointed Johns to fill the Senate seat left vacant by George Read, a decision that was met with both praise and controversy. Despite facing opposition, Johns remained steadfast in his commitment to serving the people of Delaware with integrity and honor.
Kensey Johns was not only a skilled attorney and jurist but also a dedicated public servant who left a lasting impact on Delaware's legal system. His commitment to justice and his unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law serve as an inspiration to future generations of legal professionals. Though his time in the Senate may have been brief, his legacy continues to be felt throughout the state of Delaware.