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 arrived in Chicago when it was little more than a muddy frontier settlement, and his political career mirrored the city's frantic ascent. Serving three non-consecutive terms as mayor in the 1830s and 1840s, his tenure was defined by the fundamental challenges of a boomtown: managing debt, fostering commerce, and building infrastructure. His most lasting contribution was his ardent advocacy for railroads. As mayor, he was instrumental in securing the charter for the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, the first to run from the city, which set in motion Chicago's destiny as the nation's rail hub. A Whig in a Democratic stronghold, his pragmatic focus on development often transcended partisan politics, leaving a physical and economic blueprint for the metropolis to come.
#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.”
