UBC alumnus Douglas McK. Brown was a true son of British Columbia having been born, educated and practiced here. He cared passionately about this place and his vocation. Brown’s profound respect for the courts was exceeded only by his higher regard for the profession.
Brown was born in Vancouver in 1912 and was educated at UBC (Bachelor of Arts, 1933) and Cambridge. At UBC he was a keen rugby player and a member of the Campus Players Club where he developed his talent for oratory which many felt directed him towards the profession of law.
In 1933 Brown articled with William Stuart Lane at the firm Meyers, Locke, Lane & Johannson and was called to the bar in 1936. After his articles, he joined the firm of Russell, DuMoulin & Brown and later became the professional head of the firm as well as its heart. For many years he taught as an adjunct professor at the law school. Known for his eloquence and wit, Brown came to play a role as leading counsel during the post war period and until his untimely death in 1982.
TheDouglas McK. Brown Chair in Law was established at the law school in 1986 to honour Brown and to provide an opportunity for distinguished visiting scholars to give a public lecture. It was made possible through the generosity of members of the legal profession and the community.