Webhow did john marshall become the first chief justice to wear a black robe in 1801? This article explores the origin story, the political context, and the symbolism of the judicial. Weblearn how the gavel and robe represent the judge's power and impartiality in american courts. The gavel is a wooden hammer that brings order and signals decisions, while the robe is a ceremonial scepter that shows the judge's role as a leader of the law. Weblearn how the gavel became a tool of authority and ceremony in the u. s. Judiciary, possibly influenced by the masons. Find out the difference between a gavel.