Alexander Henry was a famous politician and the mayor of Philadelphia for three consecutive terms! His life path can be called a real phenomenon. It is actually a rare case to be re-elected to a position three times in a row. Philadelphiayes.com tells you more.
During his entire time in office, Henry managed to do many useful and important things for Philadelphia and its citizens. In the most difficult periods, he stayed with his people and tried to do everything he could for the sake of general safety. It is worth noting that Alexander had great authority among the locals. His advice was heeded and his orders were strictly followed.
Here you can read more about the life and political path of Alexander Henry.
Early years
Our hero was born on April 14, 1823 in Philadelphia.
He was engaged in the study of law, which later allowed him to become the founder of a prosperous law firm.
During 1845–1846, he held the position of customs inspector.
Active participant
Alexander took an active part in the political life of Philadelphia. From 1856 to 1857, he was even a representative of the Seventh Ward in the city council.
New position
During the 1858 mayoral elections in Philadelphia, our hero won. Alexander officially took office on May 11, 1858.
As mayor, he actively supported and developed Philadelphia’s public transportation system, especially trams. Henry also significantly changed the organization of the Philadelphia police. He achieved an increase in its staff and was also involved in the implementation of the patrol system.
In addition, he was the founder of the first detective division of the Philadelphia Police Department.
Re-election
In 1860, our hero was re-elected to the position of mayor. By that time, he had already become a member of the Republican Party.
Although our hero did not support the Confederacy, he actively fought against violence related to Confederate sympathizers.
When news reached Philadelphia that the Confederacy had attacked Fort Sumter on April 15, 1861, mass clashes broke out in the streets. This continued until Henry appeared in the window of one of the buildings holding an American flag. The crowd immediately dispersed after that.
In the following days, aggressive crowds still roamed Philadelphia. They demanded that local schools and businesses demonstrate patriotism.
As mayor, Henry responded to the growing crisis and suppressed the riots along with the Philadelphia police.
The third term
Our hero was re-elected for a third term in 1862.
During the Gettysburg Campaign, Alexander asked the home guard for help in defending Philadelphia. He also asked the citizens to participate in strengthening the line of earthworks and small forts that surrounded the main ways to the city.
Life after the post of mayor
In 1865, our hero decided not to run for the next term. On January 1, 1866, he left the post of mayor.
Until 1883, he held the position of trustee of the University of Pennsylvania. He was also one of the inspectors of the Eastern State Penitentiary and a bank director. He managed to do a lot of useful and important things everywhere he was involved.
Sudden death
The life path of our hero ended on December 6, 1883 in Philadelphia. He was only sixty years old. Severe pneumonia broke off his life.