Alson Sherman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alson Sherman
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| 8th Mayor of Chicago | |
| In office April 2, 1844 – March 10, 1845 |
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| Preceded by | Augustus Garrett |
| Succeeded by | Augustus Garrett |
| Chicago Alderman from the 3rd Ward | |
| In office 1842–1843 Serving with John C. Haines
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| Preceded by | E.H. Chapin |
| Succeeded by | J.L. James |
| Personal details | |
| Born | April 21, 1811 Barre, Vermont |
| Died | September 27, 1903 (aged 92) Waukegan, Illinois |
| Political party | Independent Democrat |
| Spouse | Aurora Abbott |
| Children | Alla, Fannie, Kate, Frank, Flora, Walter, Helen, Mary, Nancy, Abijah, Adeline, Marion, Caira, Lucius, |
| Residences | Chicago, Illinois |
Alson Sherman (born April 21, 1811 – died September 27, 1903) was an important leader in early Chicago. He served as the city's 8th Mayor from 1844 to 1845. He was known as an Independent Democrat.
Contents
Early Life and Chicago Beginnings
Alson Sherman was born in Barre, Vermont. His parents were Nathanial Sherman and Deborah Webster. He was born on April 21, 1811.
First Businesses in Chicago
Sherman moved to Chicago and started some important businesses. He built the very first sawmill in the city. A sawmill is a place where logs are cut into lumber. He also became Chicago's first "iceman." This meant he delivered ice to people's homes.
Fire Department Chief
Before he became mayor, Sherman helped keep Chicago safe. For three years, he was the chief of Chicago's fire department. He led the firefighters and helped protect the city from fires.
Becoming Mayor of Chicago
In 1844, Alson Sherman decided to run for mayor. An earlier election had some problems, so a new one was held.
The Election of 1844
Sherman ran as an Independent Democrat. He was against the current mayor, Augustus Garrett. He also ran against Henry Smith from the Liberty Party. Sherman won the election with just over half of the votes. He became the 8th Mayor of Chicago.
Mayor's Achievements
As mayor, Sherman made important decisions for the city. He helped Chicago buy its very first piece of firefighting equipment. This was a big step for the city's safety. He also chose Denis Swenie to be the new fire chief.
Later Public Service and Contributions
After being mayor, Sherman continued to serve the city.
Serving as Alderman
In 1849, he was elected to the Chicago City Council. He became an alderman for the city's third ward. An alderman is like a city council member. He won a full term in 1850.
Helping Northwestern University
In 1850, Sherman became one of the first trustees of Northwestern University. Trustees are people who help manage and guide an organization. This shows his dedication to education.
Later Life and Legacy
Sherman moved to Waukegan, Illinois, in 1856. Years later, in the 1870s, a special type of marble was found near Lemont, Illinois. Sherman played a key role in developing the marble quarry there. A quarry is a place where stone is dug out of the ground.
Alson Sherman passed away in 1903. He was buried in Oakwood Cemetery in Waukegan, Illinois.
