The history of Cadwell Law Firm
Founded by Ulysses S. Grant Cherry and grown under the direction of Joe Cadwell, our firm has been a staple of the Sioux Falls community since 1891.
How our firm came to be
Cadwell Law Firm was founded in 1891 by Ulysses S. Grant Cherry. We have been in continuous practice since then. Our firm was a founding member of the Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce in 1907, and we have maintained close ties with the business community throughout our history.
In 1941, Joe Cadwell simultaneously received his law degree from the University of South Dakota and an order to report to Fort Snelling, Minnesota, as the United States prepared to enter World War II. The current evolution of the firm dates back to 1945 when Joe came to Sioux Falls, fresh off serving as a major in the infantry, and joined with Gale Braithwaite as an added caretaker to Cherry’s original practice.
Under Joe’s direction, the firm grew in size and esteem, becoming well known for providing banking, insurance real estate, commercial litigation, bankruptcy, and probate services.
Following in Joe’s footsteps
A remarkable athlete in his youth, Joe played noon “Y” volleyball well into his 80s. He was in the office every day until he was 97. In 2016, Joe received unprecedented recognition from the State Bar of South Dakota for 75 years of practice and State Bar membership.
Joe passed away in January 2019. Even in a professional life by definition filled with disputes and contests, he was a consistent example of decency, civility, loyalty, and generosity. Cadwell Law Firm seeks to carry on Joe’s example.
