John A. Roche facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John A. Roche
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| 30th Mayor of Chicago | |
| In office April 18, 1887 – April 15, 1889 |
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| Preceded by | Carter Harrison, Sr. |
| Succeeded by | DeWitt Clinton Cregier |
| Member of the Illinois House of Representatives | |
| In office 1876–1878 |
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| Constituency | Cook County |
| Personal details | |
| Born | August 12, 1844 Utica, New York, United States |
| Died | February 10, 1904 (aged 59) Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse |
Emma H. Howard
(m. 1871) |
| Residences | Chicago, Illinois |
| Signature |  |
John A. Roche (born August 12, 1844 – died February 10, 1904) was an American politician. He is best known for serving as the Mayor of Chicago from 1887 to 1889. He was the 30th person to hold this important job in the city of Chicago.
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Who Was John A. Roche?
John A. Roche was born in Utica, New York, on August 12, 1844. When he was young, he worked as an apprentice for his brother for three years. An apprentice is someone who learns a skill or trade by working with an experienced person.
Even though he only had a high school education, John Roche believed strongly in the power of learning. He often spoke about how important education was.
Moving to Chicago and Starting a Career
In 1867, John Roche moved to Chicago, Illinois, to start his own business. He married Emma H. Howard in 1871.
He became involved in politics and represented Cook County in the Illinois House of Representatives for one term, from 1876 to 1878. The Illinois House of Representatives is part of the state's government that makes laws.
Becoming Mayor of Chicago
In 1887, John Roche ran for mayor of Chicago as the candidate for the Republican Party. He won the election against Robert L. Nelson. Many people admired John Roche because he was direct and had a strong background in business.
He officially became the mayor of Chicago on April 18, 1887.
As mayor, John Roche focused on important city projects. He worked on improving Chicago's water supply and drainage systems. He also took action to stop illegal gambling in saloons and closed down places that were not reputable.
In 1889, he tried to be re-elected as mayor but lost to DeWitt Clinton Cregier, who was the candidate for the Democratic Party. His time as mayor ended on April 15, 1889.
Life After Being Mayor
After his time as mayor, John Roche went back to focusing on his business career. He became a manager and vice president at the Crane Elevator Company. Later, in 1893, he was chosen to be the president of the Lake Street Elevated Railroad Company.
John A. Roche passed away on February 10, 1904. He died from a medical condition called uremic poisoning, just an hour after attending a meeting. He was buried in Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago.
Speeches and Writings
- "Mayor John A. Roche Inaugural Address, April 18, 1887", Chicago Public Library. This is a speech he gave when he first became mayor.
