Born on September 9, 1755, in Bristol in the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.

[2] Like his father, Bourne graduated from Harvard University in 1775, received a Master of Arts degree from the same institution in 1778, and read law.

[3] Bourne received a recess appointment from President George Washington on October 13, 1796, to a seat on the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island vacated by Judge Henry Marchant.

[1] He was confirmed by the United States Senate on December 22, 1796, and received his commission the same day.

[1] Following his departure from the federal bench, Bourne resumed private practice in Providence and Bristol from 1801 to 1808.