Herbert Peter Sorg

Who was Herbert Peter Sorg?

Herbert Peter Sorg was a Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and later a United States federal judge.

Born in St. Mary's, Pennsylvania, Sorg received an LL.B. from Duquesne University School of Law in 1935. He was in private practice of law in St. Mary's, Pennsylvania from 1935 to 1955. He was a Member, Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1940 to 1953, serving as Majority whip from 1945 to 1947, Majority leader in 1947, and Speaker from 1947 to 1953.

On May 20, 1955, Sorg was nominated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to a new seat on the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania created by 68 Stat. 8. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 29, 1955, and received his commission on August 1, 1955. He served as chief judge from 1975–1976, and assumed senior status on December 20, 1976, continuing in that capacity until his death.