Thomas Hardeman Spain studied law in his father’s law office and was admitted to the Bar in 1880, beginning and continuing practice in Darlington. He was Probate Judge and Master-in-Equity for Darlington County for twenty years. He served as Judge of the Fourth Judicial Circuit from 1912 through 1918. He resumed practice in Darlington until 1921, when he joined the faculty of the University of South Carolina School of Law, serving until 1924. In retirement he maintained his interest in law, literature and history.
He married Miss May Sanders.
A man of great scholarship, aided by a phenomenal memory, he was a wise and just judge, and a dedicated and inspiring teacher who captured and kept the attention and respect of his students.