Boswell, H. James, "American Blue Book Western Washington," Seattle, Lowman 
and Hanford Co., 1922. p. 36.

VANCE, TOM M.: There is no more highly esteemed lawyer than Tom M. Vance, of 
Olympia.  Mr. Vance is a native of North Carolina, and was born in 1862.  His 
academic schooling was obtained in private schools, while his legal training 
was had in the University of North Carolina.  Mr. Vance came to Olympia in 
1897, and the following year was admitted to the bar.  I have seen him in 
trial several times.  He is usually brief, to the point, forceful and 
determined throughout. He neither asks nor gives quarter.  He is one of the 
most persistent fighters I ever saw.  His points in law are always well taken 
and the throughness with which he handles all matters is indicative of the 
care he exercises in the preparation for trial.  He is one of the most 
determined in a trial I have ever seen.  He is one of the most resourceful in 
cross examination as well as in the summing up of his cases.  He has appeared 
as counsel in many of the important cases before the courts and has scores of 
victories to his credit.  He was married to Miss Gertrude Wheeler, in 1889.  
He is a member of the Elks, Masons, Eagles, and the county and state bar 
associations.

Submitted by: Judy Bivens

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Notice: These biographies were transcribed for the Washington Biographies
Project.  Unless otherwise stated, no further information is available on the
individual featured in the biographies.