Roswell B. Mason | |
|---|---|
 | |
| 25th Mayor of Chicago | |
| In office December 6, 1869 – December 4, 1871 | |
| Preceded by | John B. Rice |
| Succeeded by | Joseph Medill |
| Personal details | |
| Born | (1805-09-19)September 19, 1805 New Hartford, New York, United States |
| Died | January 1, 1892(1892-01-01) (aged 86) Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Resting place | Rosehill Cemetery |
| Political party | Citizens Party |
| Spouse | |
| Children | 8 |
| Residence(s) | Chicago, Illinois |
| Signature | .png) |
Roswell B. Mason (September 19, 1805 – January 1, 1892) served asmayor of Chicago,Illinois (1869–1871) for the Citizens Party.
Mason was born on September 19, 1805, inNew Hartford, New York to Arnold Mason and Mercy Coman.[1] His mother was a lineal descendant ofRoger Williams, the founder ofRhode Island. His father Arnold, born inSwansea, Massachusetts, was an engineer instrumental in the construction of theErie Canal, theMorris Canal, and theHigh Bridge inNew York City.[2]
He married Harriet Lavinia Hopkins on September 6, 1831, and they had eight children.[3][4]
Mason began his career as an engineer working with his father at the age of 17 on a canal construction project inAlbany, New York related to theErie Canal. He subsequently attended an engineering school inUtica, New York. Mason was the first Chief Engineer of theIllinois Central Railroad.[5]
Mason and his family moved in Chicago in 1865, when he was one of several engineers who worked to reverse the flow of theChicago River to improve health conditions and the cleanliness ofLake Michigan.[3]
Mason held a high position with theIllinois Central Railroad until he decided to run to be Mayor of Chicago.[6]
Mason was elected Chicago mayor on a reform ticket in 1869.[6]
Mason was sworn in as mayor on December 6, 1869.[7]
During his administration, the 1871Great Chicago Fire occurred. Mason responded by directing GeneralPhilip Sheridan to place the city undermartial law. To date he is the last non Republican or Democratic Mayor of Chicago.
Mason's tenure as mayor ended on December 4, 1871, when he was succeeded byJoseph Medill.[8]
Mason's wife Harriet died on March 29, 1891.[3]
He died at his home in Chicago on January 1, 1892, and was buried atRosehill Cemetery.[3]
He is the namesake ofMason, Illinois.[9]
An elementary school in west Chicago is named after him.
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