James Augustus Fox facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Augustus Fox
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_(Fox_portrait_crop).jpg)
Undated portrait of Fox, published 1913
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| Born | August 11, 1827 |
| Died | September 1901 (aged 74) |
| Burial place | Mount Auburn Cemetery Middlesex County, MA, US |
| Alma mater | Harvard Law School |
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| Spouse(s) |
Julia Elizabeth
(m. 1848; died 1872) |
| Children | 3 daughters |
| Family |
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| Military career | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Years | 1861–1865 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Massachusetts Militia |
| Commands held | Massachusetts Artillery |
| Conflicts | American Civil War |
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James Augustus Fox (born August 11, 1827 – died September 1901) was an important American figure. He was a lawyer, a soldier, and a politician. He is best known for serving as the mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts for four terms.
Contents
Early Life and Family
James Augustus Fox was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on August 11, 1827. His family had roots in both England and Scotland. His father, George Howe Fox, was related to the famous English writer John Foxe. His mother, Emily Fox, was connected to the well-known American businessman and statesman John Murray Forbes.
James went to public schools in Boston. Later, he studied law at Harvard Law School. After finishing his studies, he worked for a lawyer named John C. Park.
In 1848, James Fox married Julia Elizabeth from Providence, Rhode Island. They had three daughters named Henrietta, Julia, and Lillian. Sadly, Julia Elizabeth passed away in 1872. That same year, James Fox moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts. He died in September 1901 and was buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery.
Professional Career
Becoming a Lawyer
In 1854, James Fox became a lawyer in Suffolk County, Massachusetts. This meant he was officially allowed to practice law. Throughout his life, he was also an active member of several social and fraternal groups. These included the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Improved Order of Red Men, and the Knights of Pythias. In the Knights of Pythias, he held important roles like "Grand Chancellor of Massachusetts."
Military Service
During the American Civil War, James Fox joined the military. In 1861, he became a Captain in the 13th Regiment of the Unattached Companies Massachusetts Volunteer Militia. He served in Virginia from 1861 to 1862 and was recognized for his good service.
Later, from 1864 to 1865, he commanded the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts. After the war, he became an early member of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States. He sometimes gave speeches about the war, and one of his talks, "The Two Civilizations," was even published.
Public Service and Politics
James Fox was also very involved in public service. For three years, he was a member of the Boston School Committee, which helped manage the city's schools.
From 1867 to 1868, he served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Then, from 1870 to 1871, he was a member of the Massachusetts Senate. After moving to Cambridge in 1874, James Fox became the mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts. He served four terms as mayor, showing his dedication to his community.
