Carter Harrison, Sr. facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Carter Harrison, Sr.
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois's 2nd district
In office 1875–1879
Preceded by	Jasper D. Ward
Succeeded by	George R. Davis
29th Mayor of Chicago
In office 1879–1887
Preceded by	Monroe Heath
Succeeded by	John A. Roche
33rd Mayor of Chicago
In office 1893 – 1893 (assassinated in office)
Preceded by	Hempstead Washburne
Succeeded by	George Bell Swift
Personal details
Born	(1825-02-15)February 15, 1825 Fayette County, Kentucky
Died	October 28, 1893(1893-10-28) (aged 68) Chicago, Illinois
Resting place	Graceland Cemetery, Uptown, Chicago, Illinois
Political party	Democratic
Spouses	Margaret Sterans, Sophonisba Grayson Preston
Children	William , Caroline Dudley, Carter Henry, Hebe Grayson, Randolf, Harry Grayson, William Preston, Gracie, Edith
Residences	Chicago, Illinois

Carter Henry Harrison, Sr. (born February 15, 1825 – died October 28, 1893) was an American leader. He was the Mayor of Chicago for many years. He served as mayor from 1879 to 1887. He was elected for a fifth time in 1893. Sadly, he passed away before finishing this last term.

Before becoming mayor, he also served in the United States House of Representatives. This is where laws are made for the country. Carter Harrison, Sr. was related to two US Presidents. He was a distant cousin of President William Henry Harrison. He was also related to President Benjamin Harrison. His son, Carter Harrison, Jr., later became the Mayor of Chicago too.

Early Life and Education

Carter Harrison, Sr. was born on February 15, 1825. His birthplace was Fayette County, Kentucky. He went to Yale University to study. He also attended Transylvania University. He worked hard in his studies.

Family Life

Carter Harrison, Sr. was married two times. His first wife was Margaret Sterans. His second wife was Sophonisba Grayson Preston. He had several children. One of his sons, Carter Harrison, Jr., followed in his footsteps. Carter Jr. also became the Mayor of Chicago.

Serving Chicago

Carter Harrison, Sr. was a very popular mayor. He served four terms in a row. This was from 1879 to 1887. He helped Chicago grow a lot. He was known for being friendly and fair. People liked his leadership style.

In 1893, he was elected mayor again. This was his fifth time. It showed how much people trusted him. He was excited to serve the city once more.

His Passing

On October 28, 1893, Carter Harrison, Sr. passed away. He was 68 years old. He was at his home in Chicago, Illinois. His death was a great shock to the city.

Images for kids

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  Harrison's tomb at Graceland Cemetery