Benjamin Wright Raymond
A three-term mayor who steered a raw, young Chicago through explosive growth and the pivotal opening of its first railroad.
1801–1883 (age 82)·American politician·Birthday: June 15
Biography
Benjamin Wright Raymond first reached Chicago when it was a muddy frontier settlement, and his political career tracked the city's frantic growth. He served three non-consecutive terms as mayor in the 1830s and 1840s, confronting the core challenges of a boomtown: managing debt, encouraging commerce, and building infrastructure. His most lasting achievement came through his fierce support for railroads. As mayor, he helped secure the charter for the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, the first line to run from the city, which launched Chicago's transformation into the nation's rail hub. A Whig operating in a Democratic stronghold, his practical focus on development often extended beyond partisan divisions, leaving a physical and economic framework for the metropolis that followed.
#1 When Benjamin Was Born
The biggest hits of 1801
Benjamin's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1801Born
1806Started school
1814Became a teenager
1817Could drive
1819Could vote
1822Turned 21
1831Turned 30
1841Turned 40
1851Turned 50
1861Turned 60
President: Abraham Lincoln
1871Turned 70
President: Ulysses S. Grant
1881Turned 80
President: Chester A. Arthur
1883Died at 82
President: Chester A. Arthur
Key Achievements
- Served three terms as Mayor of Chicago (1839, 1842–1843, 1843–1844).
- Played a key role in chartering the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, Chicago's first railroad.
- Helped establish the city's first public school system during his mayoralty.
- Was a founding trustee of Northwestern University and the University of Chicago's original predecessor.
Did You Know?
He was a successful dry goods merchant before entering politics.
The street Raymond Avenue in Chicago's North Center neighborhood is named for him.
He lost his first mayoral election in 1837 by just 13 votes.
“A city's first need is solid ground, then paved streets, then law.”
