FARMINGTON – Gwen Corson dubbed the “small claims queen” by co-workers and described as the “rock” in the Farmington court office, was recognized Wednesday for her 41 years of service to the Maine court system.

Corson, 63, of Skowhegan was chosen from nominations of judges, clerks and others in system by a 25-member council to receive the Judicial Branch Career Performance Award, a prestigious award that only five people have received in the 10 years the awards have been given, State Court Administrator Ted Glessner said Wednesday.

Corson had retired after 25 years of working in the courts in May 1991 for personal reasons. But she didn’t stay away long, she started working back at the courts in June the same year, under a temporary job service agency filling in for clerks on maternity leave, sick leave and offices that needed extra help.

Besides Farmington, she served Skowhegan and Waterville courts.

Then in 1998, Franklin County Court Clerk Vicki Hardy convinced Corson to take a two-day a week position at 12th District Court in Farmington.

She had just bought a new car back then and decided to take the job, Corson said.

Once again she has just bought a new car and Hardy joked Wednesday that she has another five-year commitment from Corson and she’s hoping for more.

Prior to the presentation, Corson walked into the courtroom and was surprised by members of her family, friends, peers and court officials.

As photo after photo was snapped, Corson was directed to a chair at the center of attention before Glessner’s presentation.

“I don’t need all these pictures,” Corson said. “One was more than enough.”

Glessner read some of the comments from the multiple nomination letters submitted on Corson’s behalf.

“People wrote some remarkable things,” Glessner said.

“Gwen is the rock in our office,” he read. “Everyone looks up to her for advice and direction. She keeps us straight. She always puts things in perspective for us. She also has a memory that we all dream to have. She can remember details and procedures that we all try to remember. We only have to ask Gwen when we fail to remember. She also has a list of things to discuss at staff meetings.”

Another comment said, “Gwen is not only a great co-worker but also a great person. She always makes sure that everyone’s birthday is celebrated. Unfortunately, she also keeps our ages in her book.”

“Her commitment to her job responsibility is exemplary beyond words. She goes way beyond what is expected of her,” another person wrote.

Glessner presented Corson with a wooden framed timepiece and plaque.

“It’s beautiful,” she said.