William Shaw (Illinois politician) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids William Shaw
Mayor of Dolton, Illinois
In office 1997 – November 26, 2008
Preceded by	Edward Kipley Jr.
Succeeded by	Ronnie Lewis
Member of the Illinois Senate from the 15th district
In office 1993–2003
Preceded by	Richard F. Kelly
Succeeded by	James T. Meeks
Member of the Illinois House of Representatives from the 34th district
In office 1983–1993
Preceded by	District created
Succeeded by	Nancy Kaszak (renumbered)
Personal details
Born	(1937-07-31)July 31, 1937 Fulton, Arkansas, United States
Died	November 26, 2008(2008-11-26) (aged 71) Dolton, Illinois, United States
Political party	Democratic
Children	Four
Relatives	Robert Shaw (twin brother)

William "Bill" Shaw (born July 31, 1937 – died November 26, 2008) was an American politician. He is known for being the first African-American mayor of Dolton, Illinois. He served as mayor from 1997 until he passed away in 2008. For many years, Bill Shaw and his twin brother, Robert, were important political figures. They had a lot of influence in the southern suburbs of Chicago.

About William Shaw

Where did William Shaw grow up?

William Shaw was born on July 31, 1937, in Fulton, Arkansas. He was one of two twin boys. His parents, Gertrude and William McKinley Shaw, were farmers who rented land. When he was seven, his family moved to St. Louis, Missouri. Ten years later, his family, including his six siblings, moved to Chicago, Illinois.

What was William Shaw's education like?

Bill Shaw first went to Vashon High School in St. Louis. After moving to Chicago at age 17, he attended Crane Technical High School. He graduated from Crane Technical High School in 1955. After high school, Bill Shaw had a short career in boxing.

How did William Shaw start in politics?

Bill Shaw began his political career in 1977. He worked as an assistant to Alderman Wilson Frost in Chicago. From 1979 to 1982, he was the assistant director of the Illinois Department of Support Services.

What political offices did William Shaw hold?

• Illinois House of Representatives: In 1982, Bill Shaw was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives. He represented the 34th district until 1993.
• Illinois Senate: After new district maps were drawn in 1991, Shaw decided to run for the 15th Senate district. He won against the current senator, Richard F. Kelly. During his time in the Illinois General Assembly, Shaw worked to make public schools teach African-American history. He also helped create the Illinois organ donor program. He served in the Senate for ten years. In 2003, he lost his election to Reverend James T. Meeks.
• Mayor of Dolton: In April 1997, Bill Shaw was elected mayor of Dolton, Illinois. He was the first African-American mayor of the city. He served five terms as mayor. He remained mayor until he passed away in 2008. After his death, Ronnie Lewis was named the temporary mayor.

What did William Shaw do after the Senate?

After he left the Senate, Governor George Ryan appointed Bill Shaw to a new role. He became the Small Business Utility Advocate on March 1, 2003. This job was meant to help small businesses with their utility needs. It also aimed to give them information about saving energy. However, Governor Rod Blagojevich later decided not to fill this position to save money.

Personal Life and Passing

Bill Shaw was married and had four children. He passed away at his home in Dolton, Illinois, on November 26, 2008. He was 71 years old. He died from colon cancer.