RCO Law began with Clarence Brown in 1874. In 1882, Brown partnered with Frederick Lyman Geddes, each bringing key clients into their budding practice. By 1885, Brown had been retained by a committee of bondholders with a controlling interest in the Clover Leaf Railroad, running between Toledo and St. Louis. This work led to expanded representation of other railroads and related interests across a variety of legal disciplines. The firm enjoyed steady legal work for the railroad industry across the next century. The relationships of Messrs. Brown and Geddes with Toledo industrial giants Edward Drummond Libbey and Michael J. Owens would prove to be consequential to the Firm's growth and success. Owens, while working as the first superintendent of production for the Libbey Glass Company, invented an automatic glass bottle making machine around the turn of the 20th century, revolutionizing the glass container industry. In 1903, with financial backing from Libbey, Owens founded the Owens Bottle Machine Company which then merged with the Illinois Glass Company to form the Owens-Illinois Glass Company.
For a full recitation of the firm's history, please download the history brochure.
Read more about RCO Law's contributions to the Toledo Community.
See how RCO Rang in 150 Years in Style.
Find more information about RCO Law's 150th Anniversary Celebration.
Latest News
Congratulations to Of Counsel James E. Brazeau recognized as an attorney practicing in Professional Liability, Health Care, and Business Litigation in Super Lawyers Magazine 2026, Ohio. With over 40 years of high-level trial experience, Jim is a lead ...
RCO Law welcomes Kevin J. Kenney as Of Counsel to the Firm, practicing in the areas of probate and estate planning, business transactions, and real estate. Kevin, who brings over four decades of sophisticated legal experience, will continue to serve ...
By Marissa K. Fitzpatrick, Partner, RCO Law As holidays approach and families start getting together, it’s not uncommon to start noticing some changes in our elderly loved ones’ health. As individuals age and face differing health challenges, it can ...