John Jay Good facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Jay Good
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|---|---|
| 18th Mayor of Dallas | |
| In office 1880–1881 |
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| Preceded by | J. M. Thurmond |
| Succeeded by | J. W. Crowdus |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 12, 1827 Columbus, Mississippi |
| Died | September 17, 1882 (aged 55) El Paso, Texas |
| Resting place | Pioneer Cemetery |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Susan Anna Floyd |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  Confederate States Army |
| Rank | Captain |
John Jay Good (born July 12, 1827 – died September 17, 1882) was an important figure in Texas history. He served as a judge, a soldier, and even became the mayor of Dallas. His life involved many different roles, from practicing law to leading a city.
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Early Life and Family Connections
John Jay Good was born on July 12, 1827, in Monroe County, Mississippi. His father was George Good. John Jay Good grew up and later started his own family.
He married Susan Anna Floyd on July 25, 1854, in Dallas, Texas. Susan was the daughter of Nathaniel Crosby Floyd and Susan Umpstead Hart. John and Susan had eight children together: John Jay Good Jr., George, Ben McCullough, Bettie H., Nathaniel Stanley, Frances Sue, Cerelle, and Willie Good.
Education and Moving to Dallas
John Jay Good went to Cumberland University to study. After that, he studied law in Columbus, Mississippi. He officially became a lawyer in 1849. He started his law practice in Pikesville, Alabama.
He later decided to move to Texas. He arrived in Dallas on November 25, 1851. He quickly became involved in the community. He was interested in projects that would help Dallas grow. One of these was supporting plans to make the Trinity River easier for boats to travel on.
Public Service and Military Role
When the American Civil War began, John Jay Good helped form a local group of soldiers. He later joined Captain Douglas's Company, which was part of the Texas Artillery. He served as a Captain during the war.
After the war ended, he continued his public service. He was chosen to be a judge for the 16th Judicial District. However, he was later removed from this position during a challenging time after the war. In 1880, he was elected to a very important role: the mayor of Dallas. He served as mayor from 1880 to 1881.
Community Involvement and Legacy
Beyond his official roles, John Jay Good was active in several community groups. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Knights Templar, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. These were social and charitable organizations.
He also played a part in the early days of the Dallas Fire Department. This department was officially started in 1871. In 1878, John J. Good was elected as the president of the Fire Department.
John Jay Good passed away on September 17, 1882, in El Paso, Texas. He had been traveling to El Paso hoping that the climate would improve his health. He was buried at the Odd Fellows Cemetery, which is now known as Pioneer Park in Dallas.
