Bruton-Geer Hall

Honoree

Judge James G. Bruton, Jr. and his wife, Quintilla, donated land worth more than $1 million towards the construction of a new University of Florida law school in the early 1980s, which resulted in the dedication of Bruton-Geer Hall, named in honor of their parents.

James Bruton was born in Arkansas but moved to Plant City, FL in 1918. He received his bachelor's degree in law in 1931 and juris doctor in 1967 from UF. Judge Bruton's private law practice flourished for over 30 years, after which he served as judge for the Plant City Municipal Court, Hillsborough County and Circuit Court.

He was elected to the State Legislature in 1934, chaired a number of Florida Bar committees and held a position on the Board of Governors. In addition, he was a life fellow of the American Bar Association, a member of the Board of Directors of the Hillsboro Bank and director of the East Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce.

Judge Bruton's wife, Quintilla, was active in Hillsborough County for more than 40 years, volunteering for organizations such as the Daughters of the American Revolution, East Hillsborough Historical Society and Community Archives Center. Quintilla co-authored the book "Plant City, Its Origin and History" that was published in 1985. She served on the Plant City Centennial Planning and Steering committee from 1984 to 1985, and she became known as "The Library Lady" for her tireless efforts in support of the community's libraries.

Judge Bruton received a Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Florida in 1986. He passed away in 1995 at the age of 86.

Facility History

Bruton-Geer Hall provides service to the faculty and students of the Law School and extension service to members of the Florida Bar, Florida's prisoners and the general public.

Click here to visit Bruton-Geer Hall virtually through UF's campus map