John Putnam Chapin, American politician, 10th Mayor of Chicago (d. 1864)

John Putnam Chapin, born on April 21, 1810, was a pivotal figure in early Chicago, serving as its Mayor from 1846 to 1847 under the banner of the Whig Party. His life trajectory saw him move from his New England roots to the rapidly developing frontier city of Chicago, where he would leave an indelible mark on its commercial and political landscape before his passing on June 27, 1864.

Chapin's journey began in his unmentioned hometown, which he left to pursue opportunities in the mercantile business in Haverhill, New Hampshire. However, the burgeoning West called, and by 1832, Chapin had made the significant move to Chicago. Arriving just before the town's official incorporation in 1833, he witnessed and contributed to its transformation from a frontier outpost to a bustling center of commerce. Here, he joined the prominent wholesale and retail merchants firm of Wadsworth, Dyer & Chapin. This partnership played a crucial role in supplying the growing population and surrounding agricultural communities, facilitating trade in a period before widespread infrastructure. The firm thrived until its dissolution in 1843, a common occurrence in the dynamic and sometimes volatile economic climate of the era.

After the dissolution of Wadsworth, Dyer & Chapin, Chapin seamlessly transitioned into the vital sector of transportation, joining the Canal Boat Transportation Company. This move highlighted the increasing importance of waterways, particularly with the anticipated completion of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which would link the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River system and profoundly impact Chicago's future as a transportation hub. Beyond his direct business ventures, Chapin's foresight and commitment to Chicago's economic future were further demonstrated through his role as a founding member of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) in 1848. The establishment of the CBOT was a landmark event, providing an organized marketplace for agricultural commodities and laying the groundwork for Chicago's eventual rise as the world's leading center for commodity trading.

Chapin's public service career began with his election as an alderman for Chicago's 1st Ward, a position he held for a single term from 1844 to 1845. This experience likely prepared him for the city's highest office. In 1846, he successfully campaigned for Mayor of Chicago as a Whig candidate. The political landscape of the time was dominated by the rivalry between the Whig and Democratic parties, with emerging third parties like the abolitionist Liberty Party also vying for influence. Chapin's victory was decisive; he secured just over 55% of the vote, defeating Democratic nominee Charles Follansbee and Liberty Party candidate Philo Carpenter. During his single term as Mayor (1846-1847), Chapin would have overseen crucial aspects of a rapidly expanding city, including infrastructure development, public safety, and managing the influx of new residents.

Following his mayoral term, Chapin remained active in Chicago's civic life. He was re-elected to the city council in 1859, indicating continued public trust and his enduring commitment to the city's governance. A significant political moment occurred in 1861, as the nation teetered on the brink of civil war. Chapin, by this time aligning with the nascent Republican Party—which absorbed many former Whigs—was nominated by the "Union ticket" for the prestigious office of Commissioner of Public Works. The "Union ticket" was a common political strategy during the Civil War, forming bipartisan coalitions to demonstrate national unity and support for the Union cause. However, Chapin, a staunch Republican, chose to decline this nomination. He viewed it as a "mischievous move on the part of the Democrats," suggesting he perceived it as a politically motivated attempt by the opposing party to either co-opt Republican support or place a Republican in a challenging position under the guise of unity. This decision underscores his strong political convictions and his vigilance against perceived partisan machinations, even in a time of national crisis.

John Putnam Chapin passed away in Chicago on June 27, 1864, in the midst of the Civil War. He was laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery, one of Chicago's most historic and beautiful final resting places. Chapin's life story is emblematic of the enterprising spirit that built early Chicago. From a New Hampshire merchant to a founding member of the Chicago Board of Trade and Mayor, he played a vital role in shaping the city's commercial and political foundations during its formative years.

Frequently Asked Questions about John Putnam Chapin

Who was John Putnam Chapin?
John Putnam Chapin was a prominent American merchant and politician who served as the Mayor of Chicago, Illinois, from 1846 to 1847. He was also a founding member of the Chicago Board of Trade.
When did John Putnam Chapin serve as Mayor of Chicago?
He served a single term as Mayor of Chicago from 1846 to 1847.
What political party did Chapin represent during his mayoral term?
During his successful mayoral campaign and term, John Putnam Chapin represented the Whig Party.
What significant commercial institution did Chapin help found in Chicago?
John Putnam Chapin was a founding member of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) in 1848, an institution that became central to Chicago's role in global commodity trading.
Why did Chapin decline the nomination for Commissioner of Public Works in 1861?
As a Republican, Chapin declined the nomination by the "Union ticket" in 1861 because he believed it was a "mischievous move on the part of the Democrats," suggesting he perceived it as a politically motivated maneuver rather than a genuine offer of bipartisan cooperation.
When and where did John Putnam Chapin die?
John Putnam Chapin died in Chicago on June 27, 1864, and was subsequently buried at Graceland Cemetery.