John T. Lesley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John T. Lesley
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Lesley in the late 19th Century
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| 12th Mayor of Tampa | |
| In office October 4, 1869 – March 1, 1869 |
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| Preceded by | Josiah A. Ferris |
| Succeeded by | John A. Henderson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | May 12, 1835 Madison County, Florida |
| Died | July 13, 1913 (aged 78) Tampa, Florida |
| Resting place | Oaklawn Cemetery |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Margaret Brown Tucker |
| Signature | .png){kind=small} |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America Confederate States of America |
| Branch/service |  United States Army Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1855 (USA) 1862-1863 |
| Rank |  Captain |
| Unit | 4th Florida Infantry 1st. Special Cavalry Battalion |
| Battles/wars | |
John Thomas Lesley (born May 12, 1835 – died July 13, 1913) was an important person in early Tampa, Florida. He was a cattle rancher and a pioneer, meaning he was one of the first people to settle and develop the area. He also served as the 12th Mayor of Tampa.
Contents
A Life of Service and Change
John T. Lesley lived during a time of big changes in American history. He was involved in several important events that shaped Florida and the United States.
Early Military Life
Lesley was a soldier in two major conflicts. He fought in the Third Seminole War, which was a conflict between the United States and the Seminole people in Florida.
Later, he became a captain in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. He even created his own group of volunteer soldiers called the "Sunny South Guards." He also commanded a special group of soldiers known as the "Cow Cavalry." This group helped protect Florida's cattle supply during the war. Lesley was later wounded and replaced by another commander.
Helping a Friend Escape
After the Civil War ended, Lesley helped a very important person. He and Major William Iredell Turner helped Judah P. Benjamin, who was a high-ranking official in the Confederate government, escape. They hid Benjamin in a swamp until it was safe for him to travel. Benjamin was then taken to the Gamble Mansion to continue his escape.
Public Service and Business
After the war, John T. Lesley continued to be active in his community. He became a state senator, helping to make laws for Florida. He also played a part in developing Tampa's transportation. He was one of the first owners of the Tampa Street Railway, which was an early public transport system in the city.
Family and Legacy
John T. Lesley married Margaret Brown Tucker. Her father, William T. Brown, was also an important figure. Their marriage helped create a powerful family in business, politics, and farming in Florida.
Lesley's sons also became important leaders. His son, William T. Lesley, served as a Sheriff and was part of the group that wrote the Florida Constitution in 1885. Another son, Theodore Lesley, was a local historian and worked to preserve important historical sites.
John T. Lesley is buried in downtown Tampa at Oaklawn Cemetery.
