James Blackmore (February 2, 1821 – February 6, 1875) was an American politician. He served as Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1868 to 1869 and 1872 to 1875.

James Blackmore
Portrait of James Blackmore,
c. 1868–1875
29th Mayor of Pittsburgh
In office
1872–1875
Preceded byJared M. Brush
Succeeded byWilliam C. McCarthy
27th Mayor of Pittsburgh
In office
1868–1869
Preceded byWilliam C. McCarthy
Succeeded byJared M. Brush
Personal details
Born(1821-02-02)February 2, 1821
Washington County, Pennsylvania
DiedFebruary 6, 1875(1875-02-06) (aged 54)
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
SpouseSarah Jane Blackmore
ChildrenJames Blackmore Jr, Henry Blackmore, Sylvanius Blackmore, Thomas Blackmore
OccupationPolitician

Life

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Blackmore was born in 1821 in Washington County, Pennsylvania. His father was County Treasurer in 1855, and young Blackmore served as Chief Clerk. Mayor Blackmore was engaged in the lumber and coal business.

The city expanded east and George Westinghouse began manufacturing the air brake in the Strip District during Mayor Blackmore's initial term.

 
Pittsburgh in 1874, by Otto Krebs

A new City Hall was completed on Smithfield Street and the city's southern boundaries were extended during Mayor Blackmore's second term. James Blackmore's last address was 167 Wylie Avenue. His only child was called his name sake, James Blackmore Jr, it was unknown what he did for a living.

He died February 6, 1875, less than a week after finishing his term, and is buried in Allegheny Cemetery. His only known living relative lives in Worthing, United Kingdom and is a direct descendant of James Blackmore Sr.

See also

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Sources

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Political offices
Preceded by Mayor of Pittsburgh
1868–1869
Succeeded by
Preceded by Mayor of Pittsburgh
1872–1875
Succeeded by