Seaver, Benjamin, 1795-1856
Biography
Boston's thirteenth mayor, Benjamin Seaver, was born April 12, 1795, was educated in the Roxbury Grammar School, and at the time of his election was an auctioneer. He was supported by Marshal Francis Tukey, who directed his men to work for him, but this did not prevent Seaver from removing Tukey from office when Tukey criticized changes Seaver made. Seaver ran for mayor a third time, but was defeated by Mayor Smith. Benjamin Seaver died February 14, 1856.
During Seaver's administration it was voted to erect a building for the Boston Public Library, and in December, 1853, a revision to the city charter was proposed. An act was also passed prohibiting the burial of people, except in certain cases, within the city limits. The administration was marked by efficiency and economy, as it was felt that the previous administration had put the city to great expense.
Taken from "Boston's 45 Mayors from John Phillips to Kevin H. White," City Record, Boston, 1979.
Found in 3 Collections and/or Records:
Address to the members of the Common Council by Benjamin Seaver, President, 1850
Mayor Benjamin Seaver, 1852-1853, undated
Photographs and other images collected by the Boston Landmarks Commission for reference use and for publications as well as photographs taken by the Landmarks Commission documenting their work and city neighborhoods.
Mayoral addresses
Includes two compilation volumes of addresses from 1822-1867 and printed copies of annual and inaugural addresses of the Mayor from 1824-1980 with gaps.