Edward Johnson (mayor)

Edward Johnson was an American politician and businessman. He was a native of Baltimore, Maryland and served as that citys mayor for six terms between 1808 and 1824. A staunch member of Jeffersons DemocraticRepublican Party, he led Baltimore during the War of 1812 and was instrumental in organizing the civilian defense of the city. For several years he was the owner of one of Baltimores largest breweries and also served as a director of the Bank of Baltimore.

Johnson was born in Baltimore in 1767, the son of a prominent physician in that city. Little is known about his early life, and many 19th and early 20th century biographies have mistakenly referred to him as a doctor, confusing him with his father who was also named Edward Johnson. In 1797, he was elected to the City Council, a requirement for which was ownership of property assessed at a minimum of 2000, a very large sum in those days. His occupation in 1798 was listed as brewer. Johnsons sister Rebecca had married brewery owner Thomas Peters in 1783. Johnsons father later became a partner in his soninlaws business. When Dr. Johnson died in 1797, Edward Johnson took over his fathers share in the company, eventually becoming its sole owner by 1807.

Source: Wikipedia